Barrier & repair· in 3 products

Allantoin

Also listed as Allantoin (INCI), 5-Ureidohydantoin and Glyoxyldiureide

Moderate evidence 0.5–2% (FDA skin protectant range)

Allantoin is a small molecule found in comfrey and other plants and made synthetically for cosmetics. It is a soothing, softening ingredient and an FDA-recognized skin protectant.

Shop 3 with allantoin All ingredients

3AlAllantoinBarrier & repair

What it does

The short version.

Allantoin has mild keratolytic and moisturizing effects that help soften rough, flaky skin, and it is used to make formulas feel more comfortable on sensitive skin. Under U.S. skin protectant rules it can be labeled to help protect and temporarily relieve chapped or cracked skin and lips. Animal wound-healing studies suggest anti-inflammatory activity, but human data on it alone are limited.

Moderate evidence

Recognized by the FDA as a safe and effective skin protectant at 0.5–2%; most other claims rest on lab or animal studies and multi-ingredient products.

In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 3 products we review, most often complexion and serums. Those products are mostly built for barrier repair, redness and hydrating. In formulas, it most often shares the label with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and squalane.

Reach for it for

Soothing Smoothing Dryness relief Flaking relief Irritation-free

Usually a good fit for

Sensitive skin Dry skin All skin types Normal skin

How to use it

Getting it right.

Look for it in moisturizers, lip balms and soothing serums used once or twice daily. It is compatible with most routines.

Layering

Friends & frenemies.

Pairs well with

Panthenol Centella asiatica Ceramides Glycerin Niacinamide

Before you start

Very low irritation and allergy risk.

References

Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.