Using the right shampoo when bathing your dog is more important than you might think. You might be tempted to reach for whatever’s in the tub during your next dog bath, but using a shampoo meant for humans on your dog could result in some painful skin conditions.
Why? Dogs and humans have different skin pH levels, which means our shampoos are formulated differently to match those unique levels. So, using human shampoo on your pup could upset the pH balance of their skin and cause irritation, dryness, and flaking.
The best way to avoid all that is to purchase a dog shampoo and—if you want to go one step further and make sure your pup’s skin is hydrated and healthy—choose one that includes colloidal oatmeal.
What’s So Great About Colloidal Oatmeal?
We’ve known about the benefits of colloidal oatmeal for centuries. Renowned as a powerful skin soother, it’s widely used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, burns, dryness, redness, and more. It provides those same benefits to our dogs, but what’s the science behind it?
Colloidal oatmeal contains several substances and compounds that have been proven to soothe the skin, including:
- Avencin compounds: these have antifungal properties
- Fiber and cellulose: these are skin-softening emollients
- Flavonoids: these help to absorb ultraviolet-A rays and protect the skin from sunburn
- Phenols and starches: these help to moisturize the skin
- Saponins: this helps gently cleanse the skin
- Vitamin E: this has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
Together, these compounds combat the redness and irritation caused by many skin conditions. Once the skin is soothed and calmed, itchiness usually lessens, as well.
Watch Out for These Ingredients
Not all dog shampoos are created equal. For the best experience, try to avoid these common substances—your dog will thank you for it!
- Cocomide DEA/MEA: The chemicals used to make this substance transform it into a carcinogenic agent that has also been linked to disruption of the thyroid gland.
- Colors and Dyes: These shampoos might look colorful and fun, but the dyes can cause skin irritation.
- Fragrances: As long the fragrances are natural and come from a non-toxic, hypoallergenic source, it’s fine. However, be on the lookout for synthetic fragrances, as these can cause skin irritation.
- Methylchloroisothiazolinone: This anti-fungal preservative has been banned in Canada and Japan because it’s a carcinogenic agent that has been connected to organ poisoning.
- Mineral Oils: These byproducts of gasoline are made from crude oil and can block the skin’s pores, preventing it from “breathing” and causing the buildup of toxins.
Now that you know what to look for in a good shampoo and what should immediately make you cross one off the list, let’s talk about the benefits of using colloidal oatmeal shampoo to bathe your dog!
The Benefits of Using Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
If you’ve ever used oatmeal soap or shampoo in a bath, you know that it provides many benefits to your skin. It can help your dog, too! Colloidal oatmeal soothes and moisturizes dry, itchy skin, relieves redness and irritation and can help with hot spots and tick and flea problems. Not to mention, it will leave your dog’s coat feeling soft and shiny.
Say Goodbye to Dry, Irritated Skin
If you’ve noticed your dog scratching more lately, it might be because their skin is feeling dry or irritated. This problem is especially common in the winter thanks to the cold, dry air. Using a colloidal oatmeal shampoo should help. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to moisturize the skin and soothe irritation.
Soothe Sensitive Skin With a Gentle Cleanser
Many dogs have sensitive skin, and any number of things can aggravate it: cold weather, bug bites, hot spots, dermatitis, fleas, allergies. These sensitivities can cause painful, irritated skin. Regularly bathing your dog with oatmeal shampoo can help to calm these symptoms and make your dog more comfortable between baths.
Keep Your Dog’s Skin Moisturized and Healthy
Colloidal oatmeal is known for attracting and holding moisture. When used in a shampoo, it can help to draw moisture into your dog’s skin, which is especially helpful for dogs who suffer from frequent dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
Give Your Dog’s Coat a Soft, Clean Finish
Because the cellulose and fiber in colloidal oatmeal act as emollients, a good oatmeal shampoo will leave your dog’s coat feeling clean and soft. Combined with vitamin E and aloe, you’re guaranteed a gentle formula that nourishes your dog’s skin and coat and leaves them feeling happier and healthier.
Need a Fast Solution for Your Dog’s Skin Problems? Try Lucky Dog!
We’re big proponents of oatmeal shampoo at Lucky Dog! If your dog needs a bath, or if you’ve noticed that their skin seems dry, red, irritated, or flaky lately, an oatmeal bath could work wonders. If you’d like to learn more about our bathing services or want to schedule an appointment, get in touch! We can help you get your dog looking and feeling better in no time.
