Evidence supporting the use of: Allantoin
For the health condition: Lesions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Allantoin is a compound commonly found in skincare products and topical medications, particularly for the management of minor skin injuries, irritation, and lesions. Its use is primarily justified by scientific evidence, albeit modest in strength. Allantoin has well-documented keratolytic (promoting the shedding of dead skin cells), moisturizing, and soothing properties, contributing to its frequent inclusion in formulations for wound healing and lesion management. Studies indicate that allantoin can promote cell proliferation and encourage the repair of damaged epithelial tissue, which can be beneficial for superficial lesions such as abrasions, minor cuts, and ulcers.
However, the clinical evidence supporting allantoin’s efficacy is mostly limited to in vitro (cell culture) and animal studies, as well as small-scale human studies. These studies report improved wound healing rates and reduction in irritation, but high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking. Regulatory bodies such as the US FDA have recognized allantoin as a skin protectant for over-the-counter use in minor wounds, burns, and skin irritations, which reflects a consensus of safety and some efficacy. Overall, while allantoin is widely used and has some scientific rationale for supporting lesion healing, the strength of evidence is moderate and further research is warranted to fully substantiate its benefits for this indication.
Other ingredients used for Lesions
Aloe verabayberry
chamomile
turmeric
licorice root
marshmallow
purified silver
reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
stillingia
Azelaic acid
Acacia
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Allantoin
Acemannan
Alkanna
Babchi
Bai Ji
Brazilian peppertree
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Bletilla
Black Nightshade
Cedar
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Dragon's Blood
Davilla rugosa
Emu Oil
Figwort
Glycolic acid
Genipa americana
Hydrocolloid
Henna
Jojoba Oil
Kigelia africana
Leptospermum scoparium
Mountain horopito
Mahonia
Marking Nut Tree
Naphthoquinones
Pellitory
Panthenol
Plumbago zeylanica
Red Spiderling
Rhus glabra
Sanicle
Sangre de Grado
Sapindus mukorossi
Thuja
Wrightia tinctoria
Witch Hazel
Waltheria ovata
Other health conditions supported by Allantoin
AbrasionsAcne
Aging (prevention)
Blisters
Boils
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Dermatitis
Diaper Rash
Eczema
Injuries
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Itching Ears
Lesions
Poison Ivy or Oak
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Sunburn
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores