Oatmeal baths are a well-known home remedy for soothing inflammation and itchiness and helping people with dry skin find relief. Products for skin conditions like eczema usually contain oatmeal, but most people want to create their DIY oatmeal bath at home. If you don’t have colloidal oats on hand, you’re bound to wonder if you can use Quaker oats for an oatmeal bath. It makes sense because they’re both oatmeal, but it’s a bit more complicated than that.
I participate in affiliate programs, including Amazon Affiliates, and may earn a small commission if you purchase items through the site’s links
Benefits of Oatmeal Baths
Oatmeal slowly dissolves into the water to ensure every part of your body enjoys the soothing benefits of this ingredient. You’ll enjoy soothing relief so you don’t have irritated, itchy skin. Oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliate, helping rinse away dead skin cells before gently opening pores to ensure a deep cleanse. Powerful anti-oxidants in oatmeal help protect the skin from further damage. Colloidal oatmeal is also FDA-approved for treating dry, itchy skin.
How to Make an Oatmeal Bath
The only ingredient for an oatmeal bath is colloidal or powdered oatmeal. Run your bathwater as usual, then add one cup of powdered oatmeal. Stir it with your hands to ensure the oatmeal is evenly distributed throughout the bathwater.
Some people sprinkle the oatmeal under the bathwater as it runs to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the bath.
Many people add other ingredients to an oatmeal bath to enjoy multiple benefits. Adding milk to your oatmeal bath is a great way to create a soothing bath. A little bit of honey can help keep your skin moisturized, and it can create a barrier to help it stay hydrated.
Research herbs and natural oils to create the ideal bath to help address your needs or a personal spa experience in the comfort of your home.
Our Picks
Aveeno Fragrance Free Soothing Bath Treatment
Shea Organics Organic Colloidal Oatmeal Powder
Can I Use Quaker Oats For An Oatmeal Bath
The critical thing to note about an oatmeal bath is that the oatmeal dissolves in the water. That’s why every part of your body that soaks in the water will enjoy the excellent benefits of an oatmeal bath.
Unfortunately, Quaker oatmeal is not in the same powder form as colloidal oats and oatmeal powder, meaning it won’t dissolve the same way. Hence, you won’t have the same benefits.
Quaker oatmeal is also packed with ingredients most people don’t know about. A glance at the label will reveal artificial flavoring. Guar gum is also found in Quaker oatmeal. This is a great thickening agent, and it’s gluten-free, but that also means the oatmeal won’t dissolve into the water as well because it’s thicker.
Other Alternatives
Even though Quaker oats won’t work, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the soothing benefits that an oatmeal bath has become known for. Natural oils, such as coconut oil, can help keep your skin moisturized. These work well if you have inflammatory conditions, such as eczema.
Aloe Vera is also known for its soothing benefits. It can help make skin less itchy, provide hydration, and help address inflammation. You may be able to find this at a local store cheaper than colloidal oatmeal.
Sunflower seed oil is another natural moisturizer that can help create a soothing bath. Add a few drops into your bathwater, and stir the water with your hand to ensure it’s thoroughly mixed. This will help create the soft skin you’re dreaming of.
Skincare Routine
Your skincare routine is as important as the ingredients in your bathwater. Make sure it’s tailored to address your specific skincare concerns. For example, if you’re worried about dry skin, incorporate a body oil into your routine. Put on body oil after you get out of the bath. Then, apply a lotion or thick body cream to lock in hydration.
People who have eczema or similar conditions should use lotions specially designed for their skin conditions. Eczema lotions are packed with soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients, including colloidal oatmeal. These can help provide the same soothing relief that colloidal oats in a bath do.
You can also incorporate sunflower oil, Aloe Vera, or other soothing lotions and serums intoyour routine. Take the time to research ingredients and find what works for your skin to create the ideal skincare routine.
Related Articles
Is Sugar Scrub Good For Your Skin
Essential Oils To Add To Your Bathwater