Allantoin

Allantoin is a natural substance that your body, animals, and even bacteria make on their own. It also comes from the comfrey plant's roots and leaves. When it's taken from comfrey this way, the parts of the plant that can irritate skin are left out, so what's left is both safe and effective.

Even though the natural version is safe, most skincare brands use a lab made version instead. This gives them more control over purity without losing any of the benefits. Allantoin has actually been used in skin products for more than 80 years, and research shows it works in several different ways at once, not just one.

First, it helps skin hold onto water. It does this by increasing the amount of moisture in the deeper layer of skin that gives it structure, which is a big reason skin feels smoother almost right away after using it. Second, it gently helps dead skin cells come off the surface, a mild kind of exfoliation, but it does this in a way that still keeps skin hydrated rather than drying it out. Third, allantoin is known for calming irritated skin, and there's a real reason why: it can attach itself to irritating substances and make them less likely to bother your skin. This is a big part of why it's so often added to products that also contain stronger, more active ingredients.

Allantoin can also help skin repair itself. Studies show it encourages skin cells to multiply and helps build the support structure skin needs to heal, while also helping new, healthy skin form on the surface. These are both important steps in how skin recovers after being damaged or irritated.

Most products use allantoin at a concentration between 0.5% and 2%. It's considered a safe, effective ingredient for protecting skin, and it's one of the gentlest, least irritating soothing ingredients used in skincare today.