Avena Sativa

• Derived from: Oats
• Pronunciation: \ˈōt-ˌmēl\ ˈek-ˌstrakt
• Type: Naturally-derived

What Is Avena sativa?

Avena sativa (also known as oatmeal extract), is derived from the oat plant[1]

What Does Avena Sativa Do?

Oatmeal extract adds texture, absorbency and bulk to products. It can also be a gentle abrasive, skin and hair conditioner, and antistatic agent. It is in a variety of products like conditioners, moisturizers, shampoos, sunscreens, lotions, and soaps.^[2]

How Puracy Uses Avena Sativa

Oatmeal extract is a dermal moisturizer that can treat dry skin, especially in pets. This is why we use it in our Natural Pet Shampoo.

Is Avena Sativa Safe?

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has also concluded that this ingredient is safe as used in cosmetic formulations.^[4] Whole Foods has deemed oatmeal as acceptable in its cosmetic products.^[5]

How Avena Sativa Is Made

Oatmeal extract is manufactured by macerating milled oat kernels with ethyl alcohol and water. After distilling the ethyl alcohol off, oatmeal extract is formulated in glycerin and water with potassium sorbate.^[2] Via ingredients like oatmeal extract, biotin adds texture to formulations, adds shine to hair, and can even help to improve brittle nails or hair.^[2]

Sources

[1] Personal Care Council
[2] Environmental Working Group
[3] National Institutes of Health
[4] Cosmeticsinfo.org
[5] Whole Foods Market