How to Use Oatmeal to Stop Itching

When itchy skin is a problem, quick and effective relief is needed. Continual scratching often exacerbates the itch in addition to breaking the skin and causing further irritation and redness. There are many itch-relief products on the market; some of them contain oatmeal. Homemade oatmeal itch-relief remedies can be used to relieve your skin by soothing and moisturizing it. Because oatmeal doesn't contain chemicals, it can be used repeatedly without harming your skin. Prolonged relief allows your skin to heal once you are itch-free.

Things You'll Need

• Dry oats
• Bowl
• Spoon
• Washcloth
• Towel
• Food processor
• Colloidal oatmeal bath soak (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Place equal parts dry oats and warm water in a bowl. Stir the mixture with a spoon to create a warm, thick paste.

• 2

  A soft washcloth with oatmeal soothes insect bites and other itchy areas.

  Spoon the oatmeal paste onto a washcloth. Apply the washcloth to the itchy portion of your skin with the oatmeal lying against the skin. Keep the oatmeal compress in place for 15 to 20 minutes; the washcloth helps hold the oatmeal in place as it soothes skin and adds a natural moisturizing barrier.

• 3

  Remove the washcloth and discard the oatmeal. Rinse the skin with warm water, then pat dry with a clean towel. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as often as needed to relieve skin.

• 4

  A food processor quickly turns oats into a fine powder.

  Place 1 cup dry oats into a food processor. Grind the oats until they are pulverized into a fine powder.

• 5

  Sprinkle the powdered oats into a warm bath. Soak for at least 20 minutes to relieve itching that's not localized to one small area of your body.