Ingredient dictionary

Allantoin

Allantoin is a white crystalline powder that soothes and softens skin and is widely used in everyday formulas. It is on the label of 74 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Allantoin does

Softens dry, rough-feeling skin
Helps skin feel calm and comfortable
Helps keep formulas smooth and easy to spread

Allantoin occurs naturally in plants such as comfrey, and much of the allantoin used in cosmetics is made in a lab. Product designers like it because it is a mild, well-tolerated ingredient that helps skin feel soft and smooth. It is often paired with other moisturizing ingredients in creams and lotions.

Because it blends into water-based products, it fits easily into light lotions and gels. It feels light on the skin and does not leave a heavy film. You will often see it in moisturizers, body lotions, deodorants, shaving products and some hair color products.

Good for

Suits most skin types, including many people with sensitive skin, and anyone wanting a gentle softening ingredient in a daily moisturizer or body lotion.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is allantoin good for sensitive skin?

Allantoin is generally well tolerated and is often used in products for sensitive skin. It is gentle and softening, though everyone reacts differently, so a patch test on new products is always sensible.

Is allantoin natural?

Allantoin is found naturally in plants such as comfrey, but most allantoin in cosmetics is made through chemical synthesis. Both versions are the same compound, so the label name stays Allantoin either way.