Avena sativa, also known as oat, is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed. Oats have been used since Roman times to soothe and heal the skin, as well as reduce inflammation and redness. The active components in oat kernel extract include avenanthramides and beta glucans. Avenanthramides are a group of active polyphenol antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory, anti-redness, anti-itch, and anti-histamine effects when applied to the skin. Due to these properties, oat kernel extract can help a variety of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dry, itchy skin.