Allantoin
Naturally derived uric acid derivative. Accelerates cell proliferation, reduces irritation, and softens the stratum corneum.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FDA. Clinical studies in atopic dermatitis and wound healing demonstrate moderate healing and softening effects. Well tolerated; allergic reactions are extremely rare. Independent large RCTs are limited.
- Araújo LU et al. Rev Bras Farmacogn. 2010;20(1):156-168.
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal, Dry
About this ingredient
Allantoin is a uric acid derivative with a hydantoin structure. Naturally present in the urine of many mammals, comfrey leaves, sugar beet sprouts, and wheat sprouts. Synthesized for cosmetics. Mechanism. Mild keratolytic: cleaves disulfide bonds in the stratum corneum, accelerates exfoliation and epidermal renewal. Stimulates fibroblast and keratinocyte proliferation, accelerates wound and erosion healing. Anti-inflammatory action via suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Where applied. Repair creams and serums (0.1–2%), post-procedure products, post-retinoid soothers, diaper-rash creams, lip balms, after-sun products. Brands: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast, Bioderma Cicabio, Avène Cicalfate, Sesderma C-Vit Repair, Mesoestetic Post-Procedure. Evidence base. CIR confirmed wound-healing and anti-inflammatory action in 2010. Margulies 2008 (n=200) showed 25–30% faster healing of surgical wounds and erosions. A standard component of post-procedure protocols (after CO2 laser, fractional laser, chemical peels). Safety. CIR confirmed safety at up to 2% in leave-on products. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. No systemic absorption through intact skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. One of the first-line ingredients in pregnancy: lip balms, dry-hand products, after-sun, stretch-mark formulas (as part of blends with centella, panthenol, hyaluronic acid). Particularly suitable for. Sensitive and irritated skin, post-procedure recovery, retinization, atopic and perioral dermatitis, compromised barrier, post-sun burn, nipple cracks during breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions
Is Allantoin safe during pregnancy?
Allantoin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Allantoin for?
Allantoin suits: oily, combination, sensitive, normal, dry.
What is Allantoin and what does it do in cosmetics?
Naturally derived uric acid derivative.
What's the INCI name for Allantoin?
The INCI name is Allantoin.
See Allantoin in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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