While there are many well-known skincare ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and retinol, there are also those that are less popular despite their amazing properties.
One example is allantoin, an ingredient often used in Korean skincare and beauty products.
Allantoin has a number of benefits when applied to the skin in the form of skincare products, and we’re going to find out what they are!
What Is Allantoin?
Allantoin is a compound that can be found naturally in most organisms, like:
- Plants
- Animals
- Microbes
You can extract the allantoin from comfrey plants, but when it comes to skincare, it’s usually grown synthetically. The comfrey plant is typically native to Asia and Europe.
This miraculous plant has strong soothing and healing abilities, and has been used for centuries to aid in healing swelling and minor skin injuries.
It’s used primarily as a moisturiser and exfoliator that’s ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Of late, it’s been experiencing a boom in popularity in South Korea, mainly due to the sensitive skin issues many Koreans struggle with.
What Does Allantoin Do to My Skin?
There are plenty of benefits that allantoin offers for your skin. Let’s have a look:
Gentle Ingredient That Protects Your Skin Against Irritants
Allantoin is a gentle ingredient with soothing properties, including anti-inflammatory and hydration attributes. As a calming agent, it safeguards your skin by combining irritants and sensitising agents.
Removes Dead Skin Cells to Refresh Skin
Exfoliating is an effective method that helps to clean and refresh your skin.
This ingredient is keratolytic, which means that it is capable of exfoliating dead skin cells. Allantoin also aids in desquamation, which involves shedding the top exterior of the membrane or tissue layer, from the inside out.
Helps Skin Maintain Plumpness
Allantoin is capable of boosting cells’ water content and combating the harm caused by transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the skin’s dermis layer.
This makes sure that the skin maintains its youthfulness.
Anti-ageing to Look Youthful
Feel like you have wrinkles, fine lines and other obvious signs of ageing?
It’s normal to see these symptoms as you grow older, but you can also use allantoin to look youthful! This compound is highly effective in triggering collagen production by stimulating cells that create collagen.
Is Allantoin Safe in Skincare?
Yes, allantoin is a safe ingredient used in skincare products.
Overall, it is a non-toxic compound with little to no side effects. However, some people may experience mild side effects after use, like:
- Irritation
- Burning
- Stinging
- Reddening
If you’re not sure whether it can be used on your skin, consult your skincare doctor or a professional who can guide you to make the right choice.
Can I Use Allantoin and Niacinamide Together?
While certain skincare ingredients are not advised to be used together, adding allantoin and niacinamide is a popular combination.
Our Tomato Toner is a highly raved product that combines both, as well as tomato extract, to soothe skin sensitivity and moisturise your skin.
The Bottom Line
Allantoin is a natural compound that has been popularised for its slew of marvellous skin benefits.
If you have sensitive skin, it makes a good skincare ingredient to look out for when you’re buying a skincare product. Remember to always consult a professional if you have any questions!
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