Allantoin

Category: Skin-soothing agent, humectant 

Used in: Skincare (cleansers, moisturizers)

INCI: Allantoin

Typical Usage Levels:

• 0.1% – 2% for barrier repair, soothing, hydration, and calming skin irritation

What This Ingredient Does

Allantoin is a well-established humectant widely used in dermatology and skincare formulations. While it occurs naturally in plants such as comfrey, the allantoin used in modern skincare is produced synthetically to ensure purity, safety, and consistent performance.

In skincare, allantoin helps calm irritation, sooth skin and improve moisture retention. It plays an important role in improving skin tolerance, especially when the barrier is compromised due to dryness, over-exfoliation, acne treatments, or environmental stress.

Because of its soothing and skin-protective properties, allantoin is frequently used in formulations designed for sensitive skin, post-procedure care, and daily barrier support.

Benefits

• Soothes irritated, sensitive, or inflamed skin
  
  
• Supports hydration and skin softness
  
  
• Improves overall skin comfort and resilience
  
  
• Helps buffer the skin when using active ingredients
  
  
• Supports barrier recovery and repair
  

Who It’s Suitable For

• Sensitive or reactive skin
  
  
• Acne-prone skin using active treatments
  
  
• Dry or dehydrated skin
  
  
• Compromised or over-exfoliated skin
  
  
• All skin types when properly formulated
  

Note by Dr. Su

(M.D. Dermatologist)

Allantoin is one of the most dependable soothing ingredients in skincare. While it doesn’t act as an active treatment on its own, it plays a crucial role in improving skin hydration, tolerance, and barrier health, especially when the skin is stressed or sensitive.

References

• Chemistry Series, March 2020, pages 7–21
  Molecules, June 2019, pages 1–33
  European Journal of Pharmacology, February 2018, pages 68–78
  Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, June 2017, Volume 76, Issue 2, Supplement 1
• Pharmacognosy Review, July–December 2011, Volume 5
  International Journal of Toxicology, May 2010, Supplement, pages 84S–97S
  Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, October 2008, ePublication
   U.S. Food & Drug Administration, 21 CFR Part 347 (Skin Protectant Drug Products)