Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs

Colloidal oatmeal shampoo for dogs has many beneficial properties, especially for the skin.  However, regular oatmeal shampoo and colloidal oatmeal shampoo are not the same.

Whereas oatmeal has been used as a soothing agent for skin issues for centuries, the process of extracting colloidal oatmeal has only been in production since 1945.  Since that time, researchers and scientists have found that the colloidal element in the shampoo is far superior to regular oatmeal shampoo.

Below is a brief explanation of the difference between oatmeal and colloidal oatmeal shampoo for dogs.

Difference between Oatmeal and Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo

Oatmeal is basically ground up oats.  Colloidal oatmeal is the result of a process whereby the oats are finely ground, boiled, and the colloidal oatmeal is then extracted.

Oatmeal or Ground Oats

Grinding up rolled oats will result in ground oats or oatmeal.  Lots of grinding will result in a fine, powdery substance, but it won't be colloidal oatmeal.

Oat Flour

Oat flour is made from oats with the bran removed.  Grinding oat flour will get you a much finer particle. Still, by removing the bran, you're eliminating the properties that make up the health benefits of colloidal oatmeal.

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is a derivative of whole oats, which includes the bran. It is achieved by finely grinding the oats and then boiling to extract the colloidal material.  Although you can grind oats yourself at home, you'll never be able to get them into fine enough particles to be able to extract the colloidal material. 

So, while it's possible to make your own homemade oatmeal shampoo, you won't be able to make a homemade colloidal oatmeal shampoo.  If you grind up oats for a homemade oatmeal shampoo, you'll get just that ground oats.  Colloidal oatmeal has many more skin-soothing benefits than oatmeal or ground oats alone.

Benefits of Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal contains lipids (unsaturated triglycerides), beta-glucan, avenanthramides and saponins.  These components are beneficial in:

  • Replenishing skins oils 
  • Moisturizing the skin
  • Providing antioxidant properties
  • Anti-inflammatory uses
  • Helps soothe itchiness 
  • Repairing and providing a protective skin barrier

Buying Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo

If you need a shampoo to alleviate skin issues in your dog, then you should purchase colloidal oatmeal shampoo instead of a regular oatmeal shampoo for dogs.

As mentioned above, you won't be able to make this yourself at home, and store-bought shampoos will only state "colloidal" oatmeal if it truly is colloidal.

The preparation of colloidal oatmeal has been standardized by the United States Pharmacopeia. It's also regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Best Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo

Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs
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A good option is Nature's Specialties Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo.  

It's a medicated therapeutic shampoo that helps with the following:

  • Relieves itching and dander
  • Dry/flaky skin
  • Hot spots
  • Flea bites
  • Dandruff
  • Reduces dermal inflammation
Colloidal Oatmeal Creme Rinse
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For a real groomer's soft coat and optimal results, follow up with Colloidal Oatmeal Creme Rinse.

This is a conditioning moisturizer that also contains colloidal oatmeal, essential oils, aloe vera, and vitamins that help restore the coat.

Used with colloidal oatmeal shampoo, this conditioner will give maximum results in helping to relieve dry, flaky skin.  It also relieves itching, adds body and moisture to the coat, and has a wonderfully fresh fragrance.

Reference

Kurtz, E. S., & Wallo, W. (2007, February). Colloidal oatmeal: history, chemistry and clinical properties. Retrieved November 6, 2019, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17373175/.