I don’t know about you but I have a cupboard full of different brands and types of body moisturizers, it takes a long time to find the one that is just right for you. As a child I suffered with eczema, thankfully I grew out of it but since then I have suffered with dry skin. Who would have thought oats would be the answer!
Recently I discovered AVEENO Active Naturals and it seems the brand has since become quiet popular. You maybe surprised to hear the unique story of the AVEENO brand began back in 1945 when two entrepreneurs developed the first AVEENO Soothing Bath Product, containing colloidal (very finely milled) oatmeal. All AVEENO body products still contain naturally active colloidal oatmeal and/or oat extracts to this day.
The Benefits of Oats
Oats are well known for their many skincare benefits;
- Moisturises: restores moisture to dehydrated skin
- Soothes: oatmeal has a soothing action on sensitive skin.
- Protects: creates a protective film on the surface of the skin.
- Buffers: helps return skin to normal pH levels.
- Cleanses: the oat particles adhere to dirt and dead skin cells allowing them to be washed away
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a very common skin condition characterized by a lack of water in the uppermost layer of the skin, the epidermis.
Dry Skin Symptoms
The following symptoms are common amongst people experiencing dry skin:
- Rough or dry patches of skin
- Sensitive skin
- Red skin
- Flaky skin
- Tight skin
- Itchy skin
Dry skin can provoke an itchy sensation that compels us to scratch the affected area. Although scratching can give us some relief, it can lead to further breakdown of the skin’s natural barrier, further irritation and skin damage.
- Research has shown that around 1/3 of women may suffer from dry, itchy skin
- Scratching can break down the skin’s protective barrier which can allow irritants to get in and moisture to get out
- Itching caused by dry skin can cause serious discomfort and is hard to tackle
What Causes Dry Skin?
Dry skin is often triggered by low humidity in the surrounding air, so it’s more common in colder months and drier climates. However, there may be other triggers including:
- Taking long, hot showers or baths
- Hormonal changes
- Over-washing or scrubbing your skin
- Using strong soaps, detergents, sanitizers or alcohol-based cleaning agents
