At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about oat extract. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Oat extract comes from the kernels of the oat plant (Avena sativa). It contains avenanthramides, beta-glucan, proteins, and lipids. In ORY® products, it helps skin and scalp feel soothed, moisturized, and comfortable. |
Verification: Supported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that oat-derived ingredients are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-sensitizing (with the exception of oat meristem cell extract, for which data were insufficient; ORY® does not use it).
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of oat-derived ingredients.
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
- What it shows: Review of oat use in skin care.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Oat extract is made by extracting oat kernels with water, glycerin, or alcohol. Oat beta-glucan and hydrolyzed oat protein are purified fractions. Colloidal oatmeal is a different ingredient: finely ground whole oats. |
Verification: Supported. Oat chemistry and its forms are well documented.
Citations:
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
- What it shows: Describes oat compounds and forms.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Lists oat-derived cosmetic ingredients.
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Oat extract suits all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. |
Verification: Supported. CIR found oat ingredients safe when formulated to be non-sensitizing. Oat contact allergy is uncommon but has been reported.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Safety data, including sensitization.
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
- What it shows: Review of oat use on dry and sensitive skin.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, hydrolyzed oat protein and oat beta-glucan help hair feel conditioned and the scalp feel comfortable. |
Verification: Limited evidence. Oat proteins and beta-glucan are used as conditioning, film-forming ingredients. We found no clinical studies of oat extract on hair. ORY® haircare products are not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Describes hair-care uses of oat ingredients.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
5. Benefits
Claim: Oat extract helps skin feel soothed, moisturized, and less dry. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Lab studies show avenanthramides reduce markers of inflammation, and colloidal oatmeal has clinical support for relieving dryness-related itch. Those studies used colloidal oatmeal or purified avenanthramides, not necessarily oat extract. Claims to relieve itching or skin irritation from eczema, rashes, or insect bites are skin protectant drug claims, and ORY® does not make them.
Citations:
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
- What it shows: Lab and animal study of avenanthramides.
- Reynertson, K. A., et al. (2015). Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 14(1), 43–48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607907/
- What it shows: Lab and clinical study of colloidal oatmeal in dry, itchy skin.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 347 — Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use (including 347.10 colloidal oatmeal, 347.12 astringents such as witch hazel, and 347.52 astringent labeling). https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA skin protectant rule, which lists colloidal oatmeal.
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Oat extract is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported. Use levels fall within the ranges CIR reviewed. We found no data on how much of oat’s active compounds survive soapmaking.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 1–5% extract; 0.5–2% beta-glucan | Serums, toners, mists, lotions, eye creams, cleansers, and after-sun products. |
| Haircare | 0.5–3% | Shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, and scalp serums. |
| Handmade Soap | 1–2% extract | Extract added at trace, or oat milk replacing part of the water. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–2% | Primers, foundations, setting sprays, and lip balms. |
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Reported use concentrations.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
7. Pros
Claim: Gentle, well tolerated, and backed by a CIR safety assessment. |
Verification: Supported. Oat has a long record of use in skin care.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
- What it shows: Review.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
8. Cons
Claim: Oat extract is not colloidal oatmeal, can rarely cause allergy, and needs good preservation. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Not colloidal oatmeal. Studies of colloidal oatmeal may not apply to oat extract.
- Allergy. Uncommon, but possible.
- Gluten. Oats can carry traces of gluten unless certified gluten-free.
- Preservation. Oat’s starches and proteins can support microbial growth without proper preservation.
- Anti-aging evidence. Clinical evidence for beta-glucan and wrinkles is limited.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Safety data.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- If you have a known oat allergy, avoid this product.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Safety data.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A., & Feily, A. (2012). Oatmeal in dermatology: A brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 78(2), 142–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Oatmeal%20in%20dermatology%3A%20a%20brief%20review%20Pazyar
- Reynertson, K. A., et al. (2015). Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 14(1), 43–48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607907/
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 347 — Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use (including 347.10 colloidal oatmeal, 347.12 astringents such as witch hazel, and 347.52 astringent labeling). https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
