- Allantoin is derived from natural sources, but can also be lab-made
- It is soothing and moisturizing
- The maximum concentration allowed in OTCs is 2%
- Allantoin is safe for all skin types
Allantoin can also be sourced from comfrey plants, beets, chamomile, and tobacco seeds. However, most times, allantoin in skincare is lab-made for sustainability reasons.
Mostly, allantoin is found in anti-aging products, but all skin types can use it, especially dry and sensitive. Above all, allantoin is a moisturizing agent, gentle enough even for easily-reactive skin that speeds up wound healing and has anti-inflammatory benefits.[1]
Additionally, allantoin has keratolytic properties, aka it exfoliates dead cells buildup. On top of everything, allantoin was found to help induce collagen synthesis, leading to firmer, more elastic skin.[2] All these key properties of allantoin give it endless benefits:
- Smoothes skin
- Speeds up wound healing
- Encourages cell turnover
- Evens tone
- Protects the skin barrier
You’ll find allantoin in all types of skincare products, from toners to serums and moisturizers, in concentrations ranging anywhere from 0.5 to 2.0%, maximum allowed by the FDA in OTC products.[3]
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel claimed allantoin is a safe, non-irritating, and gentle ingredient that can be added to skincare products.[4]
Even if it’s a gentle ingredient that can be used on a daily basis, to stay on the safe side, don’t mix allantoin with other exfoliators as it can lead to irritations.
- Araújo LU, Grabe-Guimarães A, Mosqueira VC, Carneiro CM, Silva-Barcellos NM. Profile of wound healing process induced by allantoin. Acta Cir Bras. 2010, Source
- Profile of wound healing process induced by allantoin, Source
- Allantoin™ USP, Source
- Final Report of the Safety Assessment of Allantoin and Its Related Complexes, Source