AVENA SATIVA KERNEL EXTRACT : The soothing and protective power of oats
SOOTHING | PROTECTIVE | EMOLLIENT
What is Avena sativa kernel extract ?
Avena sativa kernel extract is obtained from the grain (or “kernel”) of oats, a cereal cultivated for centuries for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. In cosmetics, this ingredient is valued for its soothing, moisturizing, and protective properties—particularly well-suited for sensitive or irritation-prone skin.
Rich in beta-glucans, phospholipids, avenanthramides (anti-inflammatory molecules specific to oats), fatty acids, and antioxidants, it works on multiple levels: relieving itching, repairing the skin barrier, and preventing dehydration.
Thanks to its gentle and balanced composition, oat kernel extract is a precious ally for fragile, atopic, or reactive skin.
Our Avena sativa extract is used to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and restore comfort to stressed skin. It’s a versatile active ingredient with multiple sensory and dermatological benefits.
Discover the full characteristics of our patented oat extract.
Derived from the oat grain kernel, it contains polysaccharides that form a protective film on the skin, helping to retain moisture while soothing discomfort.
Where does Avena sativa extract come from ?
Oats (Avena sativa) are an annual plant native to Eurasia, now widely cultivated in Europe and North America. The cosmetic extract is derived from the whole grain using gentle extraction processes—usually aqueous or enzymatic—that preserve its rich active compounds.
This plant-based, non-irritating natural ingredient is often found in certified organic or clean beauty formulations. With its excellent skin tolerance, it’s ideal for baby care, sensitive skin, or after sun exposure.
Properties and Active Compounds
Avena sativa kernel extract is a comprehensive ingredient with dermatological, sensory, and protective benefits:
-
Avenanthramides: Powerful natural anti-inflammatories that reduce redness and itching.
-
Beta-glucans: Polysaccharides that hydrate, support skin repair, and strengthen the epidermal barrier.
-
Phospholipids & Fatty acids: Nourish the skin and support barrier function.
-
Antioxidants: Protect against free radicals and environmental stressors.
-
Colloidal proteins: Soften and form a protective film on the skin’s surface.
What are the benefits of Avena sativa extract ?
Avena sativa kernel extract is a versatile active used in many dermo-cosmetic products. Its main benefits include:
-
Instantly soothes heat sensations, redness, and itching.
-
Long-lasting hydration by locking moisture into the epidermis via beta-glucans.
-
Protects the skin from environmental aggressors (wind, cold, pollution).
-
Restores the skin barrier, especially for dry, atopic, or eczema-prone skin.
-
Suitable for sensitive skin, including babies, children, and reactive adults.
-
Delivers a softening, velvety effect that improves daily skin comfort.
Main Benefits Recap
-
Soothes redness and itching
-
Reinforces the skin barrier
-
Softens sensitive skin
-
Deeply hydrates
-
Shields from external aggressions
How is Avena sativa extract used ?
Oat extract is found in a wide range of cosmetic products, especially those for sensitive, dry, or irritated skin:
-
Hydrating milks and creams: to soothe irritation and gently rehydrate skin
-
Repairing balms: ideal for eczema, chapping, or after-sun care
-
Gentle cleansers: gels or cleansing oils that respect the skin’s hydrolipidic film
-
Baby care: protective creams and cleansing milks to prevent redness
-
Soothing masks: for calming overheated or reactive skin
Any side effects ?
Oat kernel extract is very well tolerated. However, keep in mind:
-
Very rare allergy risk in individuals allergic to cereals (gluten or oats specifically)
-
Low interaction risk, but consult a professional if using with strong dermatological treatments (e.g., corticosteroids, acids)
-
Low comedogenicity, but monitor for very oily skin types if used in rich formulas
-
Be cautious with non-purified extracts or those with gluten traces for allergic or celiac individuals (in case of ingestion)
Sources
The properties of Avena sativa extract are backed by numerous dermatological studies. Its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and protective effects make it a key ingredient in soothing dermo-cosmetic care. Traditionally used to calm skin inflammation, it is considered one of the safest natural actives for skin.
-
SpecialChem – Avena Sativa Kernel Extract: “Commonly known as oats extract, derived from the kernels of the Avena sativa plant. Widely used in cosmetics…”
-
Lesielle – AVENA SATIVA KERNEL EXTRACT: “Used for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and moisturizing benefits. Found in creams for eczema relief…”
-
Paula’s Choice: “Avena sativa kernel extract has antioxidant and well-known soothing properties for skin.”