For many of us, sensitive skin is something that is always present for some, but for others, it’s something that comes and goes and we may or may not understand what causes a flare-up.
If you’re not prepared for the irritation, you might not have anything ‘official’ on hand to treat your skin and reduce irritation, but fear not, the cure might be closer than you think, right there in your kitchen.
Calamine
Calamine lotion remains a hugely popular option for people with a reaction of sorts, from eczema through to allergic reactions, but if you or a member of your family is prone to skin problems, it is worth understanding how regular porridge oats could save the day.
The compounds within oatmeal (avenanthramides) have strong anti-inflammatory powers and have also been shown to demonstrate antioxidant properties. They are used in various skincare products now such as the Avene Sensitive Skin Gift Set available from online stockists like Life And Looks http://www.lifeandlooks.com/avene-sensitive-skin-gift-set.html. Several reports now published have proven that oats can reduce redness in skin as well as dryness and itching and that they work well for both adults and children.
Full of goodies
Oatmeal is so effective because it is a natural emollient, with plenty of protein, vitamin E, and good fatty acids that combine with other components to provide a moisturising cream that is both soothing and anti-inflammatory. It also acts as a barrier cream.
If you don’t want to use oats topically, use as a bath soak to soothe an itch and lower stress levels.
Recipe
Using a piece of muslin cloth, place a handful of oats into the middle of a square and tie tightly into a ball. Pop the muslin into the bath and leave to soak. The water soaks into the parcel and then creates a ‘milk’ that is filtered into the bath by the muslin squares and into the bath water to soothe skin.
For more tips on the benefits of oatmeal as a skin soother, check out Dermatocare.
Stock up on porridge oats next time you’re in a supermarket, in the cereal aisle, or in a health food shop if you’re passing. If you’re willing to give it a go, oats could soon become your hero product where your skincare is concerned.