Why Allantoin Is The Next Big Thing In Skincare
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We'd do anything to hold on to our youthful glow. The skincare world hypes many ingredients as the next big thing, but few live up to that word. The ones that are truly good and actually work stick around and gain cult status, while the others fade away. Though Instagram and TikTok are great for discovering buzzworthy skincare products, referring to a dermatologist and learning what really works, feels like a better option. When it comes to anti-aging ingredients, retinol is top-notch. Dr. Dennis Gross, board-certified dermatologist and the founder of the namesake skincare brand, told Byrdie, "Retinol is a powerhouse anti-aging ingredient that works to stimulate cell turnover and increase our skin's natural collagen production in the epidermis and dermis."
Similarly, anti-inflammatory ingredients in skincare are trending because many people struggle with sensitive and irritated skin. But potent ingredients like centella asiatica (often labeled "cica" in many Korean skincare products) work like magic to reduce redness and calm the skin, per Self. It is particularly popular because of its healing abilities. If you are in the market for a powerful ingredient that can soothe and heal your skin, you will love allantoin.
What is allantoin?
If you are a fan of K-beauty and read the ingredient list, you will find allantoin in many of them. According to Allure, it is a popular ingredient in K-beauty products, and from what we can tell, Koreans have the skincare game on lock.
Aluminum dihydroxy allantoinate, known as allantoin for short, is an ingredient extracted from the comfrey plant, but you can also find it in chamomile and beets, which Asian cultures have been using for centuries for its ability to heal and soothe the skin (via Byrdie). It is often used in scar creams infused with emollients for better results. Though allantoin is a plant-based ingredient, it can also be created in labs. Beverly Hills-based dermatologist Ava Shamban told the outlet, "Both versions are safe and effective when used in advanced skincare and are becoming more and more popular for efficacy and results." Greatist compared it to ultra-hydrating ingredients like glycerin and vitamin E that are commonly used in a range of products, and you can find this versatile ingredient in anti-scar gels to lip balms and sunscreen. That's quite the range. Is there anything allantoin can't do?
Allantoin is a multitasking powerhouse
Allantoin has been healing and soothing skin issues for centuries. It deserves way more recognition in the skincare world, where it is quietly working its magic under the radar, but not anymore. When you get over-the-counter (OTC) allantoin, Greatist recommends looking for something between 2% and 5%, unless your dermatologist prescribes you a different concentration. Allantoin is a must-have in your bathroom vanity if you don't already because it is also a gentle anti-aging ingredient that can help stimulate collagen production.
Dermatologist Ava Shamban told Byrdie, "As it stimulates the fibroblasts (cells responsible for producing collagen), it boosts extracellular matrix synthesis, which is why it is a strong rejuvenator." It is a keratolytic, so it can exfoliate your skin and reveal brighter and smoother skin underneath. Allure loves this resourceful ingredient because it helps hydrate your skin and protects it from external factors while being completely safe for those with sensitive skin. There is a slight possibility that it might irritate some people, but that is rare. According to WebMD, this unicorn of an ingredient can treat and prevent dry and itchy skin, even soothe radiation therapy burns and diaper rash.
Best allantoin skincare products
After learning about all the benefits allantoin can have on your skin, who wouldn't want to add this enchanting ingredient to their daily routine? To make the selection process easier, we have compiled the best products with allantoin for you to choose from. Byrdie loves First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream because this moisturizer is hydrating, soothing, and replenishing. It's perfect for people with dry, flaky skin or even safe for those with eczema and psoriasis.
According to the brand, it also has additional colloidal oatmeal to soothe and shea butter to moisturize and protect the skin. No wonder it is a winner of Allure's Best of Beauty Awards. Allure's pick is Dermatory Allantoin Hypoallergenic Cream because this soothing balm can moisturize and soothe the most irritated skin. They also recommend the K-Beauty brand Peach & Lily Wild Dew Treatment Essence as another popular option. The brand promises this refreshing essence can boost radiance and give you glass skin.