Did you know there are over 36 million people in North America living with eczema- this painful, often embarrassing skin condition? Because of how common eczema is, consumers look for skincare products with colloidal oatmeal to help reduce irritation caused by eczema. Colloidal oatmeal is a popular ingredient in skin care products because it has a number of beneficial properties for the skin. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and it can help soothe and moisturize dry, irritated skin.
When it comes to treating eczema, colloidal oatmeal has been heralded as the hero ingredient, and monographed as so by the FDA. The result? Most skincare brands sprinkle in colloidal oatmeal and call it a day.
Dermatologists are finding that multiple natural actives – like zinc oxide and allantoin – in conjunction with colloidal oatmeal are even more effective at helping to treat this uncomfortable skin issue. Below are some of the top Health Canada and FDA monographed natural active ingredients that treat eczema symptoms, like itching and oozing:
Sweet almond oil is a natural oil that is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, which makes it effective at moisturizing and nourishing the skin. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce the redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema.
Sweet Almond Oil at any level up to 100% is monographed by Health Canada, (i.e. tested and approved), to temporarily protect and help relieve minor skin irritation and itching.
Zinc oxide is a mineral that is commonly used in skin care products for its ability to protect the skin. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help to reduce the symptoms of eczema.
Zinc Oxide, an often grossly overlooked and under-utilized natural active, is monographed by both Health Canada and the FDA at 1-25 % to dry the oozing and weeping caused by poison ivy, oak, or sumac. If you’ve ever had eczema or dermatitis, you’ll recognize those symptoms!
Allantoin is a chemical compound that is found naturally in the comfrey plant. It is known to have soothing and moisturizing properties, and it is often used in skin care products to help reduce irritation and inflammation.
Allantoin is a superstar ingredient monographed by both Health Canada and the FDA at .5 to 2% to help prevent and temporarily protect chafed, chapped or cracked skin and lips. Good to know it also helps protect from the drying effects of the wind and cold weather just around the corner.
