Protecting Delicate Skin: The Science Behind Oat-Based Skincare

Managing sensitive skin is a daily challenge for families across the UK. With eczema affecting one in five children and one in ten adults, finding gentle skincare routines that actually protect fragile skin is a top priority for parents. Despite around 76% of parents reporting that their children have sensitive skin, only 30% currently follow an effective routine.

Why Infant Skin Demands Extra Care

Infant skin is particularly susceptible to dryness and environmental factors. Because babies have a higher surface-area-to-body ratio than older children or adults, their skin loses moisture rapidly.

"Babies have a higher surface-area-to-body ratio than at any other stage in life, meaning more skin. Their skin is also thinner and more vulnerable to dryness and so loses moisture more easily than in older childhood or adulthood. Regular moisturising supports the skin's natural barrier, helping to prevent dryness and keep skin healthy. Healthy, hydrated skin also helps guard against irritants and infections, making daily moisturising super important in infancy." — Dr Lillie, Childs Farm’s paediatrician and skincare expert

Cold weather can make skin dryness and itchiness worse. Adjusting skincare habits during seasonal shifts helps keep delicate skin comfortable and protected year-round.

"Cold, dry weather can worsen dryness or itchiness in children’s skin. To protect skin, keep it well hydrated with gentle, dermatologist approved products, such as the Childs Farm OatDerma face cream and body moisturiser, which are great for locking in moisture to little ones’ skin and maintaining the natural skin barrier. Moisturise after bathing and again before heading outdoors into cold weather." — Dr Lillie

The Power of Oats in Skincare

Oats have long been valued for their hydrating and soothing properties. Colloidal oatmeal and oat oil work together to strengthen weak skin barriers, reduce irritation, and seal in essential hydration.

"Oats contain compounds like beta-glucans, which support the skin's natural barrier by locking in moisture and keeping the skin well hydrated. Colloidal oatmeal in products like the Childs Farm OatDerma range provides a gentle, effective and well-tolerated formula to moisturise and protect delicate skin for the whole family." — Dr Lillie

• Colloidal Oatmeal: Rich in beta-glucans, lipids, and oat-specific antioxidants known as avenanthramides, this ingredient soothes inflammation and forms a protective seal against environmental irritants. The oatmeal used in the OatDerma line is sustainably sourced from Finland, where harsh growing conditions boost its moisture-binding sugars.

• Oat Oil: Packed with natural phyto-ceramides, oat oil supplements missing skin lipids, helping extra-dry skin lock in essential moisture. Sourced as a upcycled by-product from Swedish food production, it helps minimise waste while delivering targeted nourishment.

• Glycerin: A classic humectant that pulls moisture into the skin to prevent dryness throughout the day.

Complete Care with the Expanding OatDerma Range

Designed to cater to newborns, older children, and adults alike, the fragrance-free Childs Farm OatDerma range expands beyond traditional body care to offer an all-in-one routine. Every product contains over 97% natural origin ingredients, is paediatrician and dermatologist-approved, and carries a child-friendly packaging design featuring Hattie the Hare.

Eco-Friendly Packaging and Sustainable Values

Beyond skin safety, the expanded line prioritises environmental impact. Bottles are made using 100% recycled plastic collected via Prevented Ocean Plastic schemes, featuring fully recyclable metal-free pumps and recyclable tubes.

The expanded collection launches nationwide across major UK retailers including Boots and Amazon.

Some products featured in this article were kindly provided for consideration,
with all views expressed remaining independent and genuine.

Ollēdi © 2026

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