Oats are one of the only plants known to contain avenanthramides, a group of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds essentially unique to this single grain. Avenanthramides are specifically responsible for oat extract's long-documented ability to calm itching and irritation, a mechanism well-established enough that colloidal oatmeal, a related, more processed form of oat, is officially recognized by the FDA as an over-the-counter skin protectant.
Beyond calming irritation, oat extract also contains beta-glucan and lipids that contribute to its barrier-supporting, moisture-retaining properties.
Oat Kernel Extract References
U.S. FDA monograph on colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant; general dermatology literature on avenanthramides
Sur R, et al. "Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity" — Archives of Dermatological Research, 2008
Criquet M, et al. "Safety and efficacy of personal care products containing colloidal oatmeal" — Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2012
Our team reviews ingredient research and uses up-to-date evidence to rate ingredients based on the categories below.
Best
Ingredients with the most rigorous and convincing evidence. These are the standouts backed by consistent findings across independent, peer reviewed clinical research.. When we call an ingredient Best, it has earned that distinction through genuine, reproducible proof that it improves skin.
Good
Reliable, well tolerated ingredients that do their job without complaint. They may not carry the headline benefits of a Best rated active, but they hydrate, stabilize a formula, or support the ingredients around them in ways that make a real difference in how a product performs and feels.
Average
Ingredients that are perfectly safe and serve a clear function, typically as an emollient, thickener, or filler, but do not offer any meaningful skin benefit beyond that basic job. Not a red flag, just not a reason to choose one product over another.
Bad/Worst
Ingredients with documented potential to irritate skin, disrupt the barrier, or trigger sensitization in some users, often synthetic fragrance, drying forms of alcohol, or certain essential oils. Not automatically a dealbreaker for every skin type, but worth knowing about before you commit to a product.
