Allantoin, a substance naturally sourced from several botanical extracts and also synthesized in labs, has gained significant recognition in skincare due to its moisturizing, soothing, and skin-softening properties. Known to be particularly effective in soothing irritated skin, allantoin is a promising ingredient for those seeking to achieve consistent, healthier-looking skin.

What is Allantoin?

Allantoin is a compound that can be found in several plants, such as comfrey, chamomile, and wheat sprouts. In topical medical treatments, it's used to promote wound healing and in skincare, allantoin is recognized for its soothing, moisturizing and keratolytic (skin-softening) properties.

What Does Allantoin Do to the Skin?

Allantoin is hygroscopic by nature and works on the skin by increasing water content, promoting topical skin rejuvenation, and encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells. This helps to moisturize the skin and improve skin smoothness. Allantoin is known to soothe irritation, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.

Benefits of Allantoin:

The benefits of Allantoin in skincare include:

• Moisturizing: It significantly boosts skin hydration, helping to soften and smooth the skin.

• Exfoliating: It promotes the gentle shedding of dead skin cells, revealing a healthier and more radiant looking complexion.

• Soothing: It has calming properties that can help reduce skin irritation.

How Does Allantoin Work?

Allantoin works by increasing water content in the skin, promoting topical skin rejuvenation, and encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells. This helps to moisturize the skin and improve skin smoothness. Allantoin's soothing properties help to calm irritated skin, making it a beneficial ingredient for those with sensitive skin.

Concentration Levels & Recommended Usage for Allantoin:

Allantoin is typically found in concentrations of 0.1%-0.5% but can be found upwards of 2% in skincare products. Above concentrations of 0.5% there are significant solubility issues and allantoin becomes more dispersed or suspended than solubilized in a product. It's often found in creams, lotions, and serums designed to soothe irritated and sensitive skin. For best results, it's recommended to use allantoin products consistently over a period of several weeks.

Is it Okay to Use Allantoin Daily?

Yes, Allantoin is mild and is generally safe for daily use. As always, it's recommended to perform a patch test when introducing a new skincare product to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse reactions.

Who Should Use Allantoin?

Allantoin can be beneficial for anyone dealing with dry, rough, or sensitive skin. It's particularly effective for those looking to improve skin hydration and achieve smoother skin. As always, it's best to consult with a skincare professional or dermatologist to determine if allantoin is right for your specific skin concerns.

DISCLAIMER: All skin care articles are intended to help educate on specific ingredients and skin care topics. Our articles are written to be informative and informational. Any reference to a specific patient experience is not a medical suggestion for treatment. Please note that any Prequel products with referenced ingredients are formulated for Cosmetic Use Only and NOT intended as replacements for physician advice and/or pharmaceutical product recommendations.