How To Make An Oatmeal Bath For Babies? Benefits And Concerns

An oatmeal bath is great for your baby's delicate skin since it moisturizes and reduces itchiness.

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Written by Swati Patwal
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How To Make An Oatmeal Bath For Babies, And Its Benefits

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Oatmeal is powdered oats derived from whole oat kernels or groats. Many experts recommend regular oatmeal baths for babies since oatmeal soothes and moisturizes babies’ sensitive skin. A fine version of the oatmeal is known as colloidal oatmeal, and it is often used in dermatological applications. Studies reveal that the topical application of colloidal oatmeal may help treat some skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis (1).

If you are a new parent and are planning to include oatmeal in your infant’s skincare routine, it would be best to know the appropriate ways to use this product to reap its benefits to the fullest.

Read on to explore the possible benefits of oatmeal, concerns, and the right way to carry out an oatmeal bath for babies.

Possible Benefits Of Oatmeal Bath For Babies

Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-approved natural ingredient used as a skin protectant in several skincare products, such as soaps, moisturizers, and creams (2). Research shows that colloidal oatmeal has some unique properties that can benefit your baby’s skin.

  1. Emollient and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties: High amounts of lipids, starches, and beta-glucan present in oatmeal hold moisture into the skin by strengthening the skin’s protective barriers (3). Strengthened skin barrier safeguards skin from dryness, itchiness, and pathogens’ entry (4) (5). Its use is also prevalent as a home remedy to relieve itching caused by chickenpox blisters, poison ivy rashes, hives, bugs, and mosquito bites.
  1. Cleansing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties: Saponins in colloidal oatmeal cleanse the skin and maintain its pH value. Flavonoids, phenols, and a-tocopherol (vitamin E) are other compounds that impart antioxidant, ultraviolet-absorbent, and anti-inflammatory properties (3) (5). These properties make oatmeal bath an effective remedy to subdue inflammation and itchiness due to sunburn, eczema, and dermatitis (6).

Besides these, colloidal oatmeal has prebiotic and antifungal properties (4), which may help alleviate or treat inflammatory skin conditions, such as dry skin, diaper rash, heat rash, cradle cap, and dandruff in babies. Consulting a pediatrician before trying an oatmeal bath for your baby is important to avert any concerns.

Concerns With Oatmeal Bath For Babies

Oatmeal allergy is a concern that you must evaluate before using colloidal oatmeal for your baby. Allergic reaction to oatmeal is rare but possible. A baby might be allergic or sensitive to oats if they have wheat or gluten allergy. Even minute traces of gluten in colloidal oatmeal can trigger allergic reactions in some babies.

Stay alert to signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash or redness, vomiting or nausea, wheezing, runny or stuffy nose, face or mouth swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you are unsure about the safety of over-the-counter (OTC) colloidal oatmeal, you can prepare one at home or consult a pediatrician for brand recommendations.

Note: Oatmeal doesn’t contain gluten, but it may get contaminated with gluten when grown and processed near wheat and other grains.

Making Oatmeal Bath At Home

You can prepare colloidal oatmeal at home using whole oats or steel-cut oats. Below are the steps to follow.

  1. Finely ground a tablespoon of oats groats using a grinder or food processor. Ensure the powder is fine with minimal to no large pieces visible.
  1. Test if the powder is suitable for the bath by mixing a tablespoon of the powder into a cup of warm water.
  1. If the powder dissolves into the water, turning it into an opaque white liquid with a silky feel, it is fine to use.
  1. If the powder gets collected at the bottom of the cup, grind the powder again, and re-test it.
  1. In case you are unable to grind the powder finer, grind it to the maximum fineness possible and then put it into a muslin or cheesecloth bag. You can use the bag in the bath since it can sieve out finer particles of oatmeal into the water.

How To Give Oatmeal Bath To A Baby?

Oatmeal bath is similar to how you bathe your baby usually.

  1. Put some oatmeal powder into a bathtub filled with warm water. Stir the powder with your hands until it dissolves completely. Check the bathtub’s base to ensure no oatmeal lumps or chunks are present.
  1. Carefully place your baby into the bathtub and let them soak in the water for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you can gently rub some oatmeal powder onto your baby’s skin directly.
  1. Alternatively, you can put the oatmeal powder into a bag and put that bag into the bathtub filled with hot water. Let the bag remain until the water comes to a temperature suitable to bathe the baby.
  1. Take your baby out of the bathtub after 20 minutes and pat them dry using a soft towel. Do not use soap after an oatmeal bath unless directed by a pediatrician.

Precautions To Take While Using Oatmeal For Babies

Oatmeal bath is a natural and safe skincare product for babies. Nevertheless, you must observe some precautions for added safety.

  1. Buy 100 percent pure colloidal oatmeal from a trusted and reputable brand to ensure good quality. Give preference to colloidal oatmeal made from organic oats groats.
  1. Check the ingredient list carefully for the presence of dyes, perfumes, or other additives. Some babies may develop irritation, sensitivity, or allergy due to these additives. Ideally, colloidal oatmeal meant exclusively for babies should be free from added compounds.
  1. Never leave a baby or toddler unattended while soaking in the oatmeal water. Oatmeal water is slippery and might cause the child to slip.
  1. Consult a pediatrician regarding the number of times a baby can bathe in oatmeal. Usually, a baby can have an oatmeal bath once or twice a day. However, the frequency may vary based on the purpose of use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can oatmeal cause eczema in babies?

As per a study, infants and children who are susceptible or have a history of atopic dermatitis (AD) could be sensitive to topical applicants or products containing oats (7). If you notice any such symptoms in your child, take them to the doctor.

2. Should I moisturize after an oatmeal bath?

Yes, you may apply your baby’s moisturizer after an oatmeal bath. However, try to apply it within three to five minutes to retain moisture on their skin (8). You may pick a chemical-free moisturizer, so there are no side effects.

Colloidal oatmeal is a nourishing, natural component that can benefit your baby’s skin. In particular, an oatmeal bath for babies is advantageous because of its emollient, antipruritic (anti-itch), cleansing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. They will act directly on your baby’s skin, offering several benefits to it. You can also apply oatmeal powder externally or use lotions and creams that contain oatmeal. However, look for any signs of oatmeal allergies in babies and only purchase pure colloidal oatmeal after thoroughly inspecting the ingredients. Further, consult your pediatrician before using oatmeal to treat any skin problems in your baby.

Infographic: How To Make An Oatmeal Bath For Babies?

Oatmeal is a highly versatile, nutritious food item. It serves as an ingredient in several healthy dishes such as porridge, cookies, and oatmeal milk. But did you know it is also a good skincare product? It is no surprise that you may add it to your baby’s bathwater to bathe your little one.

Check this infographic to learn the simple steps of preparing an oatmeal bath for your baby and how to bathe them in it safely.

Oatmeal bath for babies [infographic]
Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Oatmeal makes for a great skincare ingredient for babies for its antioxidant, cleansing, emollient, and other beneficial properties.
  • Give the perfect oatmeal bath for your baby by following the simple steps.
  • Ensure to take the necessary precautions and consult your child’s pediatrician to avoid any adverse reactions.

References

1. Rino Cerio et al.; Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice; NCBI
2. CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21; USDA
3. Ellen S Kurtz and Warren Wallo; Colloidal oatmeal: history, chemistry, and clinical properties; NCBI
4. Blair Allais and Adam Friedman; Colloidal Oatmeal Part I: History, Basic Science, Mechanism of Action, and Clinical Efficacy in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis; Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
5. Kurt A Reynertson et al.; Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin; NCBI
6. Ellen S Kurtz and Warren Wallo, Colloidal Oatmeal: History, Chemistry and Clinical Properties; Journal of Drugs in Dermatology; Research Gate
7. P Boussault et al., Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: prevalence, risks and associated factors; NCBI
8. Home Remedies: What Can Relieve Itchy Eczema?; American Academy of Dermatology Association.
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Kay Lakka
Kay LakkaMSc
Kay Lakka is the founder of Londontherapy, a busy psychological practice in the center of London. She holds a BSc (hons) in psychology and MSc in the psychodynamics of human development and has numerous post graduate diplomas including advanced psychotherapy, guidance through dreams, and psychosexual relationship counseling.

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