Oatmeal baths are a popular home remedy for soothing irritated or itchy skin, including eczema. Oatmeal contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and moisture-retaining properties
. To make an oatmeal bath, grind 1 cup of raw, unflavored oats into a fine powder using a coffee grinder, blender, or food processor. Draw your bath with warm (but not hot) water and add up to one and a half cups of oats to the tub for soaking. Limit bathing time to 15 minutes to avoid moisture loss. Pat skin dry with a towel and apply moisturizer after getting out of the bath. Avoid scrubbing your skin, which can further irritate it
. Some people put the oats into a pantyhose leg tied at the top, which can make the bath less messy after a soak
. Oatmeal baths can be made using store-bought products or by making your own colloidal oatmeal bath at home
. Oatmeal baths are generally safe and mild, but if you experience a rash after getting out of the bath, stop taking them—you might be experiencing contact dermatitis
