AVEENO® Skin Care Products

We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions to help you learn more about AVEENO®. If you would like to ask us a question that you don't see in the list, please visit Ask AVEENO®.

Select a category below to learn more about:

GENERAL SKIN CARE
What's the best general care for my skin?
What are skin care benefits of oatmeal?
What are the skin care benefits of soy?
What causes everyday rashes, and how can they be treated?
When should I use a sunscreen?

FACIAL CARE
What is the difference between a wrinkle and a fine line?
Will a facial moisturizer with sunscreen provide enough protection?

BODY CARE
What causes dry skin and what can I do to improve it?
Is there a special moisturizer to treat extra dry skin on my body in the winter?
What causes razor bumps or ingrown hairs?
What can you do to minimize razor bumps when you shave?

LIP CARE
What are cold sores and their causes?
What is Propolis?

BABY CARE
Why should soap not be used on a baby, and what products should I use to bathe my baby?
What's the best way to keep a baby's skin soft and healthy?
How can I calm my fussy baby before bedtime?
Should I give my baby a bath every day?

SUN CARE
What's the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
What exactly is a suntan?
How do sunscreens work?
What does ‘SPF’ mean?
What’s the difference between “waterproof”, “very water resistant”, and “water resistant”?
I know I need a high SPF sunscreen, but what else should I look for?
When should I apply sunscreen and how much should I use?
In addition to wearing a sunscreen, is there anything else I can do to protect myself in the sun?
Does sun exposure really cause skin cancer?
Does sun exposure cause skin cancer in skin of color?
Is it true that skin of color doesn’t exhibit sun damage in the form of lines and wrinkles and therefore, doesn’t need as much sun protection?
In addition to sunblock, is there anything else I can do to help prevent skin cancer?
Is sun exposure more dangerous for children?
Do I need some sun exposure to make Vitamin D?
When I was growing up, my mother always encouraged me to go play in the sun. What do I tell my kids?

OTHER
What is your customer service number?

GENERAL SKIN CARE

What's the best general care for my skin?
Here are a few simple steps that most people can take to care for and protect their skin:

Use a gentle, non-drying cleanser twice a day, everyday, for your face and body.
Apply a moisturizer to hydrate skin on your face and body daily.
To reduce the risk of premature skin-aging and skin cancer, protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun by using a sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) when outside every day, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and avoiding overexposure to the sun and tanning beds/salons.

In addition, proper skin care should also include seeing a dermatologist.

What are the skin care benefits of oatmeal?
Colloidal oatmeal is a natural skin protectant and one of the few natural ingredients recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help soothe and relieve minor skin irritations. You may benefit from the skin-soothing properties of oatmeal for the relief of dry, itchy, or irritated skin. In 1945, a technological advancement facilitated the fine milling of oatmeal, known as colloidal oatmeal. The innovation of fine milling allowed the colloidal oatmeal to retain its naturally active benefits, which were clinically shown to moisturize and relieve dry skin.

AVEENO® is the innovator in oat technology, and the creator of the first and only complete line of skin care products with natural colloidal oatmeal. To learn more about AVEENO® ACTIVE NATURALS® and the skin care benefits of colloidal oatmeal, click here.

What are the skin care benefits of soy?
Soy naturally contains proteins, lipids (natural skin conditioners), vitamins, saponins (mild natural cleansers) and isoflavones that enable it to provide the following skin care benefits:

Moisturizes
Depigmentation (evens tone and texture)
Improves skin elasticity
Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

To learn more about AVEENO® ACTIVE NATURALS® and the skin care benefits of natural soy, click here.

What causes everyday rashes, and how can they be treated?
Everyday rashes can be caused by a number of things, from heat to insect bites to allergic reactions. The following AVEENO® products can help address dry skin and itching:

Shower or bathe in warm, not hot, water. Use a gentle soap-free cleanser that won't over-dry the skin, and try a bath additive, such as AVEENO® Soothing Bath Treatment with 100% natural colloidal oatmeal. When dispersed in water, the powder forms a soothing, milky cleansing bath. Also consider trying AVEENO® Skin Relief Body Wash — Fragrance Free, with natural colloidal oatmeal.
Use a moisturizer daily to help break the dry skin and itch cycle long-term.
Our Anti-itch line can also help with the burning, itching, and weeping of a rash.
AVEENO® products, containing ACTIVE NATURALS® Oatmeal or Soy, can help soothe, moisturize, and protect dry skin.

When should I use a sunscreen?
To help protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun, dermatologists recommend wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher every day in all seasons…in summer and winter, on both cloudy and clear days.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin from both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. UVA rays are believed to be responsible for photoaging — the damage that occurs to the skin from many years of exposure to the sun. It's important to protect your skin from incidental sun exposure like while you're driving in the car, walking outside, etc.

Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including lips, ears, backs of hands, and neck. Apply sunscreen generously and evenly before going in the sun, and reapply frequently after swimming, exercising, or sweating. It's also important to look for a sunscreen product that is water resistant.

FACIAL CARE

What is the difference between a wrinkle and a fine line?
A wrinkle is defined as a crease or furrow in the skin caused by the natural process of aging, by excessive exposure to the sun's damaging rays, or environmental insults. For example, if you look in the mirror and see crow’s-feet around your eyes  these are wrinkles. If you stretch a wrinkle in the crow's-feet area, you will still see it.

However, a fine line (or “expression line“) is a small wrinkle that may be caused by the contraction of facial muscles during smiling or frowning. When you stretch the skin of a fine line, the lines are barely visible. When these muscles contract, they pull the skin in, causing a line. And the muscles controlling frown lines between the brows may contract even when the muscle is resting, causing deep lines — which could result in the start of a wrinkle.

If you are experiencing fine lines and wrinkles, try AVEENO® POSITIVELY RADIANT® Anti-Wrinkle Cream or AVEENO® Skin Brightening Daily Treatment with SPF 15.

Will a facial moisturizer with sunscreen provide enough protection?
It is important to wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Therefore, it's important to choose a moisturizer that offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sun protection. Most wrinkles come from UVA (aging) rays, while UVB (burning) rays are the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

AVEENO® POSITIVELY RADIANT® Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15 and AVEENO® Skin Brightening Daily Treatment with SPF 15 provide protection from both UVA and UVB rays, are oil-free, hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, and gentle enough to use every day, even for sensitive skin.

BODY CARE

What causes dry skin, and what can I do to improve it?
When skin is dehydrated, the water content of the very top layer of skin is reduced, causing it to shrink. This shrinkage creates many of the familiar symptoms of dry skin, including itching, scaling, loss of elasticity and tightness. Scratching further damages the skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection.

Some causes of dry skin include:

Overheated rooms
Low humidity
Cold winter air
Excessive sun
Too much soap and water, which washes away natural oils
Cleansing in hot water

Tips you can incorporate to relieve your dry skin:

Shower or bathe in warm, not hot, water. Use a gentle soap-free cleanser that won't over-dry the skin, and try a bath additive, such as AVEENO® Soothing Bath Treatment with 100% natural colloidal oatmeal and AVEENO® Daily Moisturizing Foaming Bath, which also contains natural colloidal oatmeal.
Apply a moisturizer immediately after bathing to replenish and seal in the moisture. AVEENO® Moisturizing Lotions, with natural moisturizers and rich emollients, provide superior long-lasting moisturization for dry, itchy skin for a full 24 hours.

Is there a special moisturizer to treat extra dry skin on my body in the winter?
The decreasing humidity and colder temperatures of winter can make your skin dryer than usual.
AVEENO® Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion and AVEENO® Skin Relief Moisturizing Cream are specially formulated to relieve and protect itchy, extra dry skin, and is clinically proven to moisturize for a full 24 hours.

What causes razor bumps or ingrown hairs?
Hair grows from follicles in the skin. When shaved, the tip of the hair is left with a sharp point. As curly hair grows, this sharp point may emerge from the hair follicle, curve back and pierce the skin. The body reacts to and treats these ingrown hairs just as it would a splinter or other foreign body, producing a pimple-like bump.

Razor bumps can also form when shaving too close causes whiskers to be clipped off below the skin surface. This allows hair to penetrate the side of the hair follicle instead of following its normal path to the skin's surface. This occurs more frequently when the hair follicle is curved. Once razor bumps are formed, continual shaving cuts and slices existing bumps, resulting in a painful and uneven shave and possible worsening of the condition.

What can you do to minimize razor bumps when you shave?
Try shaving every other day, and don't shave too closely. Choosing a razor specially made for razor bumps is also helpful. This type of razor cuts the hair at the right length to reduce the likelihood that the hair tip will re-enter the skin. Use a highly lubricating shave product like AVEENO® Therapeutic Shave Gel, formulated to enhance razor glide and to minimize irritation. In addition, be sure to wet hair with warm water to soften it before shaving. Leave product on skin a few minutes before shaving to help soften hair/skin.

LIP CARE

What are cold sores and their causes?
Eighty percent of the population suffers from cold sores, also know as "fever blisters" and one-third experience recurrent outbreaks of cold sores.

A variety of factors can contribute to this virally related condition including over exposure to UV light, illness or fever, menstruation, physical or emotional stress and fatigue, and certain foods and medications. Usually found on the inside and/or around the mouth or lip area, the cold sore while initially blisters, can eventually turn into a painful ulcer.

What is Propolis?
Propolis is a naturally derived ingredient created from plant resins and used by honeybees to line and protect the hive and maintain a clean, healthy environment. Used for centuries as a traditional medicine to prevent skin infections and treat wounds, scientists have studied propolis in modern times for its potential antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral benefits. AVEENO® Advanced Relief Cold Sore Treatment contains an exclusive, purified extract of propolis collected from a region where a specific species of poplar trees grow. The exclusive formula in AVEENO® Advanced Relief Cold Sore Treatment has been clinically proven to improve the condition of cold sores up to 3.5 days faster. Its rich emollients lock in moisture to provide fast relief of cold sore symptoms, and it can be applied at any stage of a cold sore as it heals.

BABY CARE

Why should soap not be used on a baby, and what products should I use to bathe my baby?
Soaps tend to dry the skin, and some adult soap may prove irritating for baby's delicate skin. Therefore, it’s important to use cleansers that are specifically designed for baby’s delicate skin like AVEENO® Baby Wash and Shampoo or AVEENO® Baby ESSENTIAL MOISTURE™ Bath. They are soap-free, tear-free cleansers that are designed to gently cleanse your baby’s skin without drying.

What's the best way to keep a baby's skin soft and healthy?
If your baby's skin isn't dry or chapped and doesn't have a rash or eczema, a gentle, soap-free baby wash and shampoo in a warm bath should be all you need. Tear-free formulas are a must. And since holding a squirmy, slippery baby in one hand can get difficult when bathing them, consider using a 2-in-1 product, such as AVEENO® Baby Wash and Shampoo. In one easy step, this tear-free, soap-free liquid cleanses your baby's hair and body without drying and irritating the way soap can.

How can I calm my fussy baby before bedtime?
If your baby is fussy before bedtime, try AVEENO® Baby CALMING COMFORT™ Bath and AVEENO® Baby CALMING COMFORT™ Lotion, which are enriched with moisturizing ingredients, natural oat extract, lavender and vanilla to soothe baby's delicate skin. Combine with a warm bath or with a massage to naturally calm and relax your fussy baby, helping to improve the overall well-being of your baby so that he or she can sleep more restfully.

Should I give my baby a bath every day?
Most infants and crawling babies only need a bath two to three times a week, although their hands, face, and diaper areas should be kept clean and dry. And, it is important to bathe them with gentle, soap-free cleansers. Once they become toddlers, more frequent bathing is recommended.

SUN CARE

What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVA and UVB rays are different wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Both types are invisible and can cause skin cancer.

UVA rays are the most plentiful. They penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and can cause invisible photodamage, which may appear a few years later as lines, wrinkles or dark spots. UVA rays are not only responsible for aging effects; they can also contribute to sunburn and skin cancer.

UVB rays are the primary cause for the redness and blistering of sunburns. Sun exposure can cause melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer.

What exactly is a suntan?
A suntan is caused by an increase in melanin, the pigment in your skin. Melanin gives skin its natural color. The more melanin, the darker the skin’s color. When UV rays contact the skin, a special type of skin cell makes and releases more melanin. This is a defensive response, as melanin can partially protect the skin from some of the harmful effects of the sun. But remember: there’s no such thing as a safe tan! A tan is a sign that some cells in your skin have already been injured by the sun. It’s your skin’s attempt to prevent further damage.

How do sunscreens work?
There are two basic types of sunscreen. Some sunscreens, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, protect your skin by absorbing UV rays. This is the way AVEENO® CONTINUOUS PROTECTION™ Sunblock Lotions work. Other sunscreens, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, reflect the UV rays away from your skin. AVEENO® Baby CONTINUOUS PROTECTION™ Sunblock Lotion with SPF 45 contains both types of sunscreens, so it works in both ways.

What does ‘SPF’ mean?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is an indication of your protection from UVB rays. It does not address protection from UVA rays. The SPF value on a sunscreen product indicates how much longer you are able to stay out in the sun before getting a sunburn when protected by the sunscreen. For example, if your “natural burning time” is 5 minutes in the sun, a properly applied SPF 30 sunscreen will protect you from burning 30-times longer or about 150 minutes. The higher the SPF number, the longer your skin is protected before it begins to burn.

What’s the difference between “waterproof”, “very water resistant”, and “water resistant”?
To be labeled “waterproof” or “very water resistant”, a sunscreen must maintain the same SPF level for 80 minutes in water or after perspiring. Soon the word “waterproof” will be disappearing from package labels and may be replaced by the term “very water resistant”. The words “water resistant” on a label mean that the sunscreen maintains the same SPF level for 40 minutes in water or after perspiring.

I know I need a high SPF sunscreen, but what else should I look for?
Look for broad spectrum protection. This means that the product blocks UVA and UVB rays. An important plus is antioxidants. Antioxidants can be in the form of vitamins such as Vitamin E, as well as soy, found in some of the AVEENO® ACTIVE NATURALS®. Antioxidants help prevent free radical damage to the skin caused by sunlight. They also help shield against long-term environmental damage.

When should I apply sunscreen and how much should I use?
Dermatologists recommend applying your sunscreen first thing in the morning as part of your daily skin care routine. Apply liberally and evenly to all exposed skin. Many people get poor sun protection simply because they don’t apply enough sunscreen. The average adult should apply approximately one ounce (about the size of a shot glass) to cover the whole body. Keep in mind that certain medications or treatments may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Don’t forget areas such as your lips, ears, feet, and hands. If necessary, give the sunscreen a few minutes to be absorbed into your skin before you go outside. The new AVEENO® CONTINUOUS PROTECTION™ Sunblock Lotions don’t break down as quickly, so you can play longer. Sunscreens must be reapplied every few hours and especially after swimming or perspiring.

In addition to wearing a sunscreen, is there anything else I can do to protect myself in the sun?
Avoid unnecessary sun exposure - especially between 10AM and 4PM when the sun’s rays are strongest. If you are outdoors, spend as much time as possible in the shade. Clothing has some SPF of its own, so cover up with a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. A large-brimmed hat and sunglasses can provide additional protection. Remember that you can get a sunburn even on a cloudy day, and sunlight reflecting off snow, sand, or water can also cause your skin to burn.

Does sun exposure really cause skin cancer?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 90% of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. Since only about 33% of adults and children regularly use sun protection, many cases of skin cancer could be avoided if recommended sun safety precautions are followed daily.

Does sun exposure cause skin cancer in skin of color?
Skin cancers are more common in fair-skinned, sun-sensitive individuals, but they can occur in anyone. The occurrence of sun related skin cancer is on the rise in individuals with skin of color. So whatever your skin type, be sure to protect your skin from sun exposure.

Is it true that skin of color doesn’t exhibit sun damage in the form of lines and wrinkles and therefore, doesn’t need as much sun protection?
Skin of color can exhibit fewer sun-induced “aging” signs such as wrinkles and fine lines. However, sun exposure is still damaging to skin of color, and skin of color is more likely to develop uneven pigmentation from sun exposure compared to light skin. Acne spots and melasma, which are more common in skin of color, can worsen with sun exposure. Therefore, all skin types need to be protected from the damaging effects of the sun.

In addition to sunblock, is there anything else I can do to help prevent skin cancer?
Get to know your skin. Examine it once a month from head to toe. If you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of freckles or moles, see a dermatologist. It is also recommended that you have a complete skin check up by a dermatologist at least once a year.

Is sun exposure more dangerous for children?
The majority of a lifetime’s sun exposure occurs under the age of 18, so babies, children, and adolescents need to protect their skin from sun exposure. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, regular sun protection throughout childhood can cut the rate of skin cancer by 80%. Teens may be especially at risk for developing skin cancer, because their cells are dividing and changing rapidly. Yet less than half of teenagers use sunscreens.

Do I need some sun exposure to make Vitamin D?
5 to 10 minutes of sun exposure per day is enough for your body to make Vitamin D. You get this much just going about your daily activities.

When I was growing up, my mother always encouraged me to go play in the sun. What should I tell my kids?
Your mother was right to encourage a healthy outdoor lifestyle, and you can do the same for your children. Now we know more about some of the sun’s dangers and we have the means to protect our children’s skin. Make sure your children understand the need to protect themselves and how to do it. Stress the importance of: Avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours (10AM to 4PM), wearing protective clothing, and using a broad spectrum sunscreen.

OTHER

What is your customer service number?
You can telephone our call center at 1-866-4AVEENO (1-866-428-3366). An Information Specialist is available
from 8 AM - 5 PM EST, Monday through Friday.

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