Beta-glucan is a soluble fiber found in the cell walls of oat grains, but it was long thought that a molecule as large as beta-glucan was too big to penetrate the skin. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetics, beta-glucan does indeed penetrate the skin barrier. When oatmeal is applied topically in combination with water, the active ingredients soothe dry and sensitive skin. Oats also contain polysaccharides, which, when combined with moisture, take on a gel-like texture. This leaves a protective layer on the skin that locks in natural moisture while providing additional nutrients. Many people with sensitive skin have a compromised skin barrier function, and this layer acts as a protective, second skin. The proteins also increase the production of filaggrin, an important building block of the skin's barrier function.
Some skin conditions, such as acne and eczema, are inflammatory conditions associated with stress. Inflammation is also the cause of the itchy red plaques of psoriasis. Inflamed skin can be red, irritated, and sensitive to touch.
Scientists at the Moscow Institute of Cosmetology have found that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of oat polysaccharides are effective in treating dry and irritated skin;
Oats also have antimicrobial properties due to the phenolic acid extract they secrete. These are substances that kill bacteria and other microbes, making oats very effective in treating acne and psoriasis.
Skin renews itself every month or so, but as we age, this process can slow down to about a month and a half, meaning that the amount of new and destroyed cells becomes unbalanced.
In addition, by age 25, collagen and elastin production begins to decline. UV rays, free radicals, and even oxygen damage the skin, so it becomes less elastic. Wrinkles and sagging appear.
Amino acids such as arginine and carnitine support the skin's natural function of producing collagen and elastin and repairing damaged DNA. "A complete protein" contains all the essential amino acids. Not only do oats have all of these components, but they have been found to have more than twice the protein of other grains!
Just as freshly cut fruit can turn brown when exposed to oxygen, our cells can oxidize or "rust" when exposed to free radicals. Free radicals are the rogue cells responsible for aging (i.e. wrinkles, sagging, and dryness), and they can be caused by pollution, poor diet, frequent sleep deprivation, stress, etc.
The process of cell damage is called oxidative stress. Free radicals are combated by antioxidants, which also soothe irritated skin. Oats contain vitamin B1 (also called thiamine), a powerful antioxidant that is important for skin care because it keeps your skin looking youthful. Oats are also a rich source of avenanthramides, a group of antioxidant compounds not found in other plant sources. Avenanthramides are the main active compounds in oats that reduce redness and inflammation (especially irritation from excessive sun/UV exposure), soothe the skin, and act as a gentle exfoliant, which is excellent at removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin looking brighter. Avenanthramides are powerful antioxidants that have 10-30 times the antioxidant activity of other oat phenolics.
With all these unique benefits, it’s no wonder oats have earned a reputation as a staple ingredient in both cosmetics and countertops. With a powerful combination of active ingredients, oats can:
Fight acne. Oats absorb excess oil and help soothe acne. The exfoliating effect and powerful minerals help get rid of blackheads and clogged pores, removing dead skin cells and polishing the skin without drying it out.
Hydrate. The lipid and protein content of oats gives hydrating, skin-clogging, and softening properties. Oats contain beta-glucan, which forms a thin film on the skin. This protective layer penetrates deep into the skin, helping the skin retain moisture.
Evens tone and texture. Avenanthramides and other antioxidants help protect and soothe the skin, reducing redness and inflammation. Calmer skin looks more even and healthy, giving you a smooth, radiant complexion.
Control Itch. Oats have anti-itch properties and help control the itching associated with various skin conditions and fungal infections. Remember taking an oatmeal bath as a child to soothe irritated skin?
Cleanse. Oats are an ideal, gentle cleanser for sensitive skin due to their saponins, as they absorb dirt and debris from the skin’s surface. Armed with this knowledge, you can see the many properties that make oats incredibly beneficial!
