Diy Oatmeal Bath: 5 Skin Benefits And Easy Recipes

You know how to make a bowl of oatmeal for your breakfast. Now, let’s learn how to make an oatmeal bath, one of the natural remedies that not only soothe your skin but also provides relaxation and promote skin wellness. Wondering why all of a sudden we are talking about oatmeal baths? This ingredient is exceptionally beneficial for soothing dry, itchy, and irritated skin. This isn’t just a popular self-care trend; it has been used for centuries to soothe different skin issues. If you are not acquainted with the skin benefits of an oatmeal bath, scroll down to learn how it may benefit your skin, DIY recipes, and how to use an oatmeal bath. Scroll down.

In This Article

How To Prepare A DIY Oatmeal Bath

You may add the oatmeal powder directly to your bath or prepare a bath bag with it. Below, we have discussed what you may need to prepare both.

1. DIY Oatmeal Bath Using Powder

You Will Need

• 1 cup of raw, unflavored steel-cut oats
• A coffee grinder, blender, or food processor

Method

1. Grind the oats until you get a fine powder.
2. Test the powder by mixing it in a glass of warm milk. If it easily turns into a paste, the powder is ready. If it settles at the bottom, you need to grind the oats for a longer duration.

2. DIY Oatmeal Bath Bag

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You Will Need

• A large coffee filter or muslin bag, or nylon pantyhose
• ½ cup of uncooked, unflavored rolled oats
• A rubber band

Optional Additives

• 2 tablespoons of milk powder
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2-3 drops of any essential oil for fragrance
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 2-3 tablespoons of Epsom or sea salt

Method

1. Pour the oats into the coffee filter, muslin bag, or nylon pantyhose.
2. Add the additives if any.
3. Secure the bag with a rubber band.
4. You may make several oatmeal bath bags in advance to plop one directly into a bath.
5. If you are using a coffee filter, secure it with a mesh laundry bag as the coffee filer may disintegrate in water.

Once you have prepared the oatmeal bath powder and bath bags, here is how to use them.

Amy Lou, a blogger, shared her personal experience of using an oatmeal bath and how she benefited from it. She recounts in the blog, “The first time I made myself an oat bath it was disastrous! After being told to bath in it, I naturally took it literally and poured oats into the bath water ( i ).” She then proceeds to talk about the oatmeal bath recipe that she tried and would recommend to others as well.

Key Takeaways

• You can make an oatmeal bath by adding oat powder or an oat bath bag to your bath.
• To effectively use an oatmeal bath, soak in the bath for 30 minutes and then rinse off.
• This bath improves skin barrier function, imparts anti-inflammatory merits, and relieves diaper rash, among other benefits.
• However, it may cause adverse reactions if you have certain protein allergies.

How To Use An Oatmeal Bath

To Use DIY Oatmeal Bath Powder

1. Fill the bathtub with lukewarm water.
2. Add a cup of the oatmeal bath powder and stir to dissolve.
3. Add any additives (if you wish) like essential oils and bath salts.
4. Soak in the bath for 20-30 minutes and relax.
5. Rinse your body with regular water and pat it dry.

Note: Be careful while stepping in or out of the bathtub as the oatmeal powder leaves behind a thin and slippery film

.

To Use the DIY Oatmeal Bath Bag

1. Fill the bathtub with warm water.
2. Put a bath bag in the water. Wait for 5-10 minutes to let the ingredients dissolve.
3. Soak in the bath for 20-25 minutes.
4. You may exfoliate your skin with the bath bag.
5. Rinse your body with regular water and pat it dry.

Note: You can add honey for extra moisture, essential oils for a nice scent, or baking soda to soothe your skin to the oatmeal bath. Try different combinations to find what works best for your skin and what you enjoy most.

Compared to the oatmeal powder, bath bags are less messy. If you are wondering how oatmeal may benefit your skin, read the next section.

Benefits Of An Oatmeal Bath

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1. Improves Your Skin Barrier

Colloidal oatmeal (powdered oatmeal) regulates the skin lipids, moisturizes the skin, and improves its natural barrier.

It is especially helpful in relieving skin issues like ( 1 ), ( 2 ):

• Dry skin
• Rashes
• Eczema
• Pruritis
• Atopic dermatitis

2. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Colloidal oatmeal inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines (a group of proteins and peptides secreted by the immune system) and soothes the skin.

Topical colloidal oatmeal can relieve inflammatory symptoms like ( 3 ), ( 1 ):

• Skin roughness
• Scaling
• Itching
• Dryness
• Psoriasis

3. May Help Manage Xerotic Dermatoses

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Colloidal oatmeal has been used for ages to soothe xerotic dermatoses symptoms (a form of eczema) like dry, itchy, red, and cracked skin. An oatmeal bath may help reduce eczema scars and promote smoother, healthier skin . It contains beta-glucan that protects and soothes the skin. It is loaded with phenols that are responsible for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and work as UV absorbers ( 4 ).

4. Cleanses Your Skin

Oatmeal contains saponins and has skin-cleansing properties ( 4 ). Oatmeal baths and scrubs can effectively remove dirt and grease from your skin and keep it clean. You may use oatmeal if you are looking for a natural alternative to the harsh soaps.

5. May Soothe Diaper Rash

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Colloidal oatmeal does not irritate the skin, and you may also use it on your baby€™s skin to soothe diaper rash, dry skin, scaling, itching, insect bites, and other issues. You may also use products containing oatmeal extract ( 5 ). However, ensure to do a patch test and consult a dermatologist.

Are Oatmeal Baths Safe?

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Colloidal oatmeal is considered safe for topical application (directly or as an ingredient in skin care products). The FDA regulates the use of colloidal oatmeal and considers it to be safe for soothing eczema, rashes caused by poison ivy, oak, or sumac, and other skin conditions ( 6 ).

However, if you are allergic to the proteins present in oatmeal, it can worsen your existing skin condition and cause:

• Swelling
• Itching
• Redness

In case you develop these symptoms, rinse your skin with soap and water and discontinue oatmeal products and baths. If irritation persists, consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. To avoid such adverse reactions, it is crucial to do a patch test. This simple step can prevent potential discomfort and skin issues. Also, clean the tub well after use, as oatmeal can leave a slippery residue that might cause falls.

Infographic: Types Of Oats

Oatmeal baths provide various benefits, such as cleansing your skin and providing relief against issues such as eczema, rashes, and dry skin. Using the right type of oats is essential to make your oatmeal bath relaxing and beneficial. You can check out the different types of oats available in the grocery shop and pick what is suitable for you.

Check out the infographic below to know more.

The DIY oatmeal bath recipes discussed in the article are easy to prepare, hassle-free, and ensure that you have a luxurious shower experience. Oatmeal baths can improve skin texture and soothe irritated, itchy, dry, and red skin. You can follow the tips shared in the article, make an oatmeal bath at home, and even customize the recipes and add fragrant oils to enrich them. Oatmeal is considered safe for the skin and is a good home remedy ingredient. However, if you are allergic to proteins present in oatmeal, you may experience some side effects. So, always do a patch test before using it on the skin.

How do you take an oatmeal bath without clogging the drain?

You can use colloidal oatmeal instead of regular oatmeal for your bath to avoid clogging the drain. Colloidal oatmeal is powdered and, thus, goes down the drain quickly.

Will an oatmeal bath help a yeast infection?

Yes. The soothing anti-irritation properties of oatmeal can help ease the symptoms of a yeast infection.

How do you clean up after an oatmeal bath?

Oatmeal can leave a slippery film on your bathtub. You can use warm water and a washcloth to rub it off the surface and clean up after an oatmeal bath.

How often should you have an oatmeal bath?

As an oatmeal bath is considered safe for most conditions, you can enjoy it twice daily for 15-20 minutes.

Experience the benefits of an oatmeal bath with this easy-to-follow video tutorial. Check it out to discover how this simple yet luxurious self-care ritual can soothe your skin and leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Personal Experience: Source

StyleCraze’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.

References

1. Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review https://ijdvl.com/oatmeal-in-dermatology-a-brief-review/
2. Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena Sativa) Improves Skin Barrier Through Multi-Therapy Activity https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27272074/
3. Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607907/
4. Colloidal oatmeal: history, chemistry and clinical properties. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
5. Safety and efficacy of personal care products containing colloidal oatmeal https://www.dovepress.com/safety-and-efficacy-of-personal-care-products-containing-colloidal-oat-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-CCID
6. CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=347&showFR=1

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.

You must have seen so many ingredients that become a rage all of a sudden and become a staple in our skin care routine. Terminalia chebula is one such ingredient. There are multiple ways to use chebula for skin-related issues, the most popular is to add it to various natural remedies. Skin care enthusiasts swear by this ingredient for its immense skin benefits. So, what makes it so effective and beneficial? Is it really worth all the attention it is getting? Keep reading to find out.

What Is It? An evergreen plant in South Asia belonging to the Combretaceae family and bearing fruits with medicinal properties.

What Are Its Benefits? It may help delay aging signs, moisturize and strengthen the skin barrier, and improve its appearance.

Who Can Use It? Anyone who is not allergic to it can use it.

How Often? It can be applied twice a day.

Caution No major side effects are known yet, but best to conduct a patch test before use..

In This Article

Terminalia Chebula: A Brief Background Of The Miracle Berry

Terminalia chebula belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is an evergreen plant native to the wild forests of South Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, and others. The Terminalia chebula fruit also goes by the name of Haritaki, Bihara, Harada, and Chebulic myrobalan.

The Terminalia chebula fruit is small, ribbed, and nut-like with an elliptical or ovoid shape. It is typically plucked for use when green but acquires a distinct yellow to brownish-orange shade when unpicked. Beneath the firm and fleshy layers of the fruit rests a single-angled stone that bears a convoluted and abrasive surface.

The fruit has been used for centuries as an active ingredient in the treatment of chronic ulcers, heart ailments, and dental caries. The Thai alternative medicine uses chebula for curing skin conditions and promoting wound healing.

In India, Ayurveda hails chebula as the king of medicine. In fact, it is one of the ingredients of Triphala – a common Ayurvedic herb that finds diverse uses in strengthening and nourishing the body. So it is regarded as a potent herbal medicine.

Key Takeaways

• Thai alternative medicine and Ayurveda support the claims of Terminalia chebula berries aiding wound healing and managing skin conditions.
• These berries are said to have anti-aging and moisturizing properties and enhance the appearance of the skin.
• Chebula berries can be added to face packs or are also available in the form of pills, serums, and powders.

Benefits Of Chebula For The Skin

The cosmetic use of Terminalia chebula does not enjoy a body of scientific research and trials. However, several small-scale studies, preliminary research, and anecdotal claims support the use of this fruit.

1. May Help Slow Down Skin Aging

Chebula has powerful antioxidant properties. It contains bioactive compounds like glutathione i A substance produced by the liver involved in many body processes like tissue building, protein-making, and immune system support. , superoxide dismutase i An enzyme found in all living cells that helps break down reactive oxygen molecules, potentially preventing tissue damage. , and vitamins C and E. In rat studies, the fruit was found to neutralize free radicals and mitigate the effects of oxidative stress i A condition that occurs due to the overproduction of reactive oxygen molecules. Its effect on skin includes hyperpigmentation and aging. ( 1 ). Studies show that oxidative stress may accelerate skin aging ( 2) .

The effects of polyphenols i Compounds found in many plant foods, like teas and fruits, with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. derived from the Terminalia chebula extract were found to last long and be more effective than any other naturally occurring antioxidant ( 3 ). Polyphenols are known to protect the skin from the aging effects of UV radiation ( 4 ).

2. May Help Moisturize Your Skin

Skin hydration is key to younger and healthy-looking skin. Research demonstrates that chebula-based creams could boost skin moisture content and rejuvenate it ( 5 ). Another study found that Terminalia chebula fruit extract penetrated the inner layers of the skin and affected its complete architecture ( 6 ). This property may make your skin supple, firm, smooth, and promote natural radiance.

3. May Strengthen Your Skin Barrier

Skin care products containing Terminalia chebula improve the skin’s barrier function . The fruit extract shields the skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UVB rays, which may help improve skin complexion. It also stimulates collagen production and increases the thickness of the cellular matrix for further protection. The fruit can effectively combat photodamage while also reinforcing the dermal layers ( 7 ).

4. May Boost Your Skin Appearance

Terminalia chebula can soften skin, even out its texture, and brighten its overall appearance. This is possible due to its ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate wound healing. Terminalia chebula fruit extracts were found to display anti-psoriatic effects ( 8 ). They could decrease skin layer thickening and improve the appearance of erythema i Abnormal skin redness with varying color and pattern, resulting from inflammation, environmental factors, infection, sunburn, or injury. , scales, and sores. The fruit may also reduce free radical production while leaving the normal skin architecture unaltered. Your skin appearance can improve as a result.

These are the important benefits of Terminalia chebula for the skin. But how can you make use of it?

How To Use Chebula In Skin Care?

Terminalia chebula fruit extracts are used as key ingredients in several serums, pills, powders, and tinctures. You can purchase them in the form that suits you best. Follow the directions mentioned on the packaging for best results. Alternatively, you can also get creative and mix some Terminalia chebula powder into your face pack to boost the overall effectiveness of your skincare regimen.

Terminalia chebula serums are the most popular of all forms. Here is a quick step-by-step breakdown on how to apply one:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
2. Spray on some face mist or toner and let your skin absorb it.
3. Apply three to eight drops of the chebula serum, spread it evenly across your face, and let it sit.
4. Follow with a layer of moisturizer and some sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage.

Kundalini Yogini, a Youtuber, shared her personal experience with Terminalia chebula, called haritaki in the video. She says, “Clean the body with haritaki. It’s a really nice scrub actually. If you’re into facials, masks, anything like this, you can wash your face with it every night and it completely clears the pores, cleanses the skin, and makes the skin very tight and anti-aging ( i ).”

Side Effects Of Chebula For The Skin

The safety regarding the long-term use of Terminalia chebula fruit or its extracts is not well researched yet. However, the fruit seems to be generally safe in its various forms and on different skin types. In fact, preliminary research, as discussed, supports the beneficial effects of Terminalia chebula on your skin. While more human studies are warranted, using it on your skin should be safe.

However, conduct a patch test before applying it to your skin. Consult your physician before taking it orally.

Summing It Up

Terminalia chebula is an herb used across various Southeastern countries for the treatment of various heart ailments and skin conditions. Anecdotal evidence suggests that using chebula for your skin is beneficial in various ways. Its antioxidant and wound-healing properties may slow down aging, hydrate your skin, and improve the appearance of your skin. A lesser known anti-aging herb , it is available in the form of pills, face powder, and serums. While there is limited research regarding the safety of chebula, conduct a patch test before applying it.

While the information on its side effects is limited, we suggest you do a patch test before using it topically. Regular use of this wonder fruit can offer you pleasing results.

Is chebula good for pimples?

According to Anna Chacon, Dermatologist, “Terminalia chebula, also known as “the king of medicines,” has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the number of acne lesions and soften and brighten the skin. Its antibacterial power also guards the face against unwanted bacteria that can cause more breakouts.”

Is chebula good for acne?

Yes. The extracts of Terminalia chebula showed significant inhibition of lipase activity (which plays an important role in the development of acne) ( 9 ).

Is chebula good for dark spots?

Chebula is rich in antioxidants that act against oxidative damage and free radicals. It treats several skin conditions like acne, pimples, and dark spots. However, limited research is available in this regard.

How long does Terminalia chebula take to work for the skin?

According to Anna Chacon, Dermatologist, “The topical use of chebula has shown effect within a week of use, in the morning and at night time. But like any other beauty product, effects vary from person to person.”

Illustration: Terminalia Chebula: History, How To Use, And Risks

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Terminalia chebula is a powerful medicinal herb with many health benefits. Learn how it can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.

Personal Experience: Source

StyleCraze’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.

References

1. Effect of Terminalia chebula aqueous extract on oxidative stress and antioxidant status in the liver and kidney of young and aged rats https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cbf.1581
2. Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4496685/
3. Antioxidant activity of polyphenolic extract of Terminalia chebula Retzius fruits https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1658365514000818
4. Polyphenols: Skin Photoprotection and Inhibition of Photocarcinogenesis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3288507/
5. Formulation and characterization of a cream containing terminalia chebula extract https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22398922/
6. A standardized Terminalia chebula fruit extract alters the expression of genes associated with skin architecture and barrier formation https://www.jle.com/fr/revues/ejd/e-docs/a_standardized_terminalia_chebula_fruit_extract_alters_the_expression_of_genes_associated_with_skin_architecture_and_barrier_formation_318673/article.phtml
7. Ethanol extract of Terminalia chebula fruit protects against UVB-induced skin damage https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27222341/
8. Terminalia Chebulanin Attenuates Psoriatic Skin Lesion via Regulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/445645
9. Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes lipase by extracts of Indian medicinal plants https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22268921/

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.