Under The Lid: Oats (Yes Oats)…

Oats have been used throughout the ages to soothe dry and irritated skin. Although the first grains discovered were most likely weeds, cultivated oats were discovered in Switzerland during the Bronze Age (2000 to 700 BC). During Roman times oats were known to be effective skin cleansers and referenced in ancient medical literature as treatment for addressing a variety of skin concerns. In addition to the numerous nutritional benefits of oats, they also have a long history of use as a potent skin soother. With recent studies proving its efficacy oats seemed a very natural addition to the Glimpse Mineral Treatment.

Oats have been shown in various clinical studies to increase moisture levels within the skin. When combined with water, oats create a barrier on your skin, this benefit is derived from its high concentration of hydrophilic (water loving) polysaccharides. The moisture binding ability of oats benefits the Strateum Corneum (the outermost layer of your epidermis) increasing moisture levels, and reducing TEWL (trans epidermal water loss), while acting as a “buffer” and maintaining/restoring a proper ph. In short oats can help maintain barrier integrity, prevent water loss, and help alleviate irritation associated with a variety of skin conditions.

No less important than its impressive water-binding abilities are the anti-oxidant, UV absorption, and anti-inflammatory activities oats seem to exhibit. Ferulic and caffic acids are among the most potent antioxidants found in oats with ferulic being a strong UV absorber. As oxidative stress being linked to a host of skin diseases antioxidants may help to protect your skin against many inflammatory skin conditions. The flavanoids found in oats have been shown to act as UVA screens and tocopherols (vitamin E) have been proven to have anti-inflammatory effect on the skin as well as reducing (and sometimes preventing) UV-induced damage to the skin.

With its wide array of benefits oats work in harmony with BioActive X3, zinc oxide, and a variety of botanicals to make Glimpse Mineral Treatment the one of a kind product that it is.

Anne-Michele Hughes brings valuable insight into current trends in the skin care industry. With 19 years as a Paramedical Master Aesthetician her experience provides the knowledge critical for developing effective products utilizing cutting edge formulation and ingredients. Misha has been working with XanGo on the development of Glimpse from the beginning.

One Response to “Under The Lid: Oats (Yes Oats)…”

1. Connie says:

   July 15, 2010 at 4:06 pm

   Fantastic information. It proves you really did your research before developing the Mineral Treatment.