Oatmeal bath for eczema

Oats (Avena sativa) are and emollient which means it soothes and softens inflamed skin by locking in much needed moisture. Avenanthramides is the property found in oats that make it a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Studies show there is a significant reduction in scratching, inflammation and contact hypersensitivity.

Steps for an Oatmeal bath

1. Use colloidal oatmeal or finely ground oats for your bath.

2. Add about 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal or finely ground oats to a bathtub filled with warm (not hot) water. Hot water can further irritate the skin.

3. Mix the oats with your hands to disperse throughout the bath. This will prevent clumps of oats from sticking to your skin.

4. Soak in the oatmeal bath for about 5-10 minutes.

5. Gently pat dry the skin. Avoid rubbing the skin are this can increase aggravation.

6. Moisturise the skin with a naturopathic recognised product immediately after the bath to lock in moisture.

* Do not use oatmeal on broken skin for more than 1-2 weeks.

You can also add the oats to a muslin cloth (you can purchase this from houseware stores or fabric stores). Drop the bag into the water and squeeze the milky content directly onto the skin.