Safety of Oat Ingredients

How do you test the safety of your oat ingredients for use in cosmetic applications?

Six of our oat-derived cosmetic ingredients (Oat COM; Oat Lipid; AvenaPLex; and aurafirm P, aurafirm N, and aurafirm S) were tested by a Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT). This study concluded that none of the tested ingredients produced any signs of cutaneous irritation or skin sensitisation. As a result, these dermatologically tested products can be considered non-irritating and hypoallergenic. The full results of our HRIPT studies can be found in our ingredient data packs available for download below.

What does the cosmetic industry think about the safety of oats?

Johnson and Johnson have been strong advocates for the safety of oats in cosmetic products. They have published a number of studies highlighting the safety of colloidal oatmeal in improving skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. In addition, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel conducted the most extensive safety review of a wide variety of oat-derived cosmetic ingredients and conclusively found that they were safe to use.

What is the historical safety record of oats in beauty and personal care?

Oats have been used for centuries in a range of products across the food and cosmetics industries. Their potential in cosmetic products was already being harnessed back in 1945 when one of the first colloidal oatmeal products was made available. More information on the history of oats and their use is available in our dedicated blog post. Alternatively, download the journal article below to find out more.

Are oat-based cosmetics safe for people suffering from coeliac disease?

Oats are naturally gluten-free and have been shown to be well-tolerated in people suffering from coeliac disease. Whilst oats contain avenins that are similar in structure to gluten, they possess distinctly different epitopes which are responsible for inducing immune responses of an individual. Long-term studies have supported the safety of oats in those with gluten sensitivities, the details of which can be downloaded below.

N.B. We advise that those with coeliac disease always consult their doctor before use of a new cosmetic product or ingredient of potential concern.

Can children use oat-based products on their skin?

Studies have shown that children suffering with atopic dermatitis can benefit from applying oat-derived cosmetic ingredients. A Johnson and Johnson study found that the quality of life improved for atopic dermatitis child patients with a reduction in their xerosis (skin dryness) and pruritus (skin itchiness) after 4 weeks of use. In another Johnson & Johnson paper, a 1% oatmeal cream was found to be just as safe to use as a prescription barrier cream in the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in children with no safety issues detected.