Beauty•Health
Head to Toe Support for Sensitive Skin – Powered by Oats
14 July '25
5 min read
Oat-powered and science-backed, Aveeno’s skincare range delivers the gentle benefits sensitive skin craves.

Easily irritated, unpredictable skin? You're not the only one. Recent studies show that more of us are dealing with sensitive skin than ever before, with over 60% of people reporting some form of dryness, irritation or reactivity[1]. If Google searches are anything to go by – there’s been a noticeable uptick in people searching for sensitive skin information. Whether it’s a sign of rising skin reactivity or simply more awareness, one thing’s clear: sensitive skin is having a moment.
With more people turning to barrier-supporting ingredients to soothe irritated skin, could oats be the calming hero we’ve been missing?
We’ve got childhood memories of oatmeal baths to soothe itchy skin and steaming bowls of porridge on cold mornings. Long before oats were trending, Aveeno was researching and harnessing their power. Here’s how their products deliver gentle support from top to toe.

From ancient remedy to modern staple
While sensitive skin affects a growing number of people, oat-based skincare isn’t just for those with reactivity. It’s a wise choice for anyone looking to hydrate, nourish and support their skin’s moisture barrier – especially during winter, when dryness, tightness and dullness tend to creep in. Oats have been used in skincare for centuries (think, Ancient Egyptian times!), and modern research supports its ability to soothe and protect dry, sensitive skin[2].

If you want to get into the nitty gritty, colloidal oatmeal contains lipids and beta-glucans that help support the skin’s moisture barrier and calm irritation. Aveeno’s Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion, formulated with a Prebiotic Triple Oat Complex and shea butter, is clinically proven to deliver long-lasting hydration for 72 hours*. It also helps restore the skin’s moisture barrier and relieve feelings of tightness – fast. In fact, it’s shown to soothe dry, sensitive skin in just 20 seconds§.
So what causes sensitive skin?
Almost everyone at some stage in their life has experienced some form of skin sensitivity for any number of reasons. A product that suddenly stings. A rash that appears out of nowhere. A persistent feeling of dryness or irritation you just can’t pin down. Was it the weather? An ingredient? Am I too stressed? The experts at Aveeno say triggers can include pollution, stress, hormonal fluctuations, temperature changes, diet, cosmetics and more[3].
Sensitive skin vs sensitised skin
While some people can be born with sensitive skin, others may experience temporary reactivity triggered by lifestyle, products, or environment[4] – a concept often described in the skincare industry and online as sensitised skin. It’s also important to note: if you’re experiencing or suspect you might have eczema, rosacea, dermatitis or any other concerns with your skin, you should chat to your doctor or dermatologist.

Lightweight hydration that doesn’t overwhelm
Your face often bears the brunt of daily skin stressors – windburn, too many actives (we’re looking at you retinol) and not enough hydration. Enter the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturiser: a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel that instantly soothes and hydrates, while helping to restore the moisture barrier.
The formula includes prebiotic oat to support your skin and calming feverfew, known for its antioxidant properties. In fact, studies show 92% of users agreed their skin felt instantly soothed†. Add it to your daily routine for gentle hydration that won’t overwhelm sensitive skin.
Don’t forget your scalp
If your complexion is in strife, you do something about it. Think – cleansing, toning, moisturising, masks, facials – the works. But because our scalp can’t be seen, we can tend to take the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach.

The result? Product build up, congestion, oiliness, and dryness. Seasonal dryness and environmental stressors can affect it too, it is skin after all[5].
The Aveeno Oat Milk Blend Moisturising Shampoo is made with oat as its first ingredient and infused with almond milk for soothing, nourishing care that gently hydrates without sulfates, dyes or parabens. Think of it as a calming cleanse for your scalp and strands that soothes dry, itchy sensitive scalp in one day‡.
Oat-powered care, from head to toe
With over 75 years of skin science behind it – Aveeno continues to combine the best of nature with dermatological research. Developed alongside dermatologists and designed with sensitive skin in mind, each product is grounded in science and backed by decades of clinical insight to create gentle, effective skincare for the whole family. Shop in-store and online at Chemist Warehouse today.
References
1. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. The clinical relevance of maintaining the functional integrity of the stratum corneum.
2. Aveeno. 7 reasons oats are nature’s best kept secret for dry, itchy skin.
3. Aveeno. Sensitive Skin.
4. Cleveland Clinic. Sensitive Skin.
5. Cleveland Clinic. Dry Scalp.
Disclaimers
* Based on clinical study after 4 weeks of continuous use of Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion.§ Based on a consumer study with self-perceived sensitive skin.† Home use test, 100 participants, 2019.‡ Tested on adult skin. Based on a bilateral, controlled clinical trial to evaluate scalp moisturisation and scalp pruritus for dry scalp and sensitive scalp.
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Sponsored content in partnership with Aveeno®.


