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
AcaciaAcemannan
Alkanna
Allantoin
Aloe vera
Alpha hydroxy acids
azelaic acid
babchi
bai ji
bayberry
bentonite
benzoin
black nightshade
Bletilla
bloodroot
Brazilian peppertree
cedar
chamomile
chickweed
cocklebur
copaiba oil
Davilla rugosa
dragon\'s blood
emu oil
figwort
Genipa americana
Glycolic acid
henna
Hydrocolloid
jojoba oil
Kigelia africana
Leptospermum scoparium
licorice root
Mahonia
Marking Nut Tree
Marshmallow
Mountain horopito
Naphthoquinones
Panthenol
Pellitory
Plumbago zeylanica
purified silver
red spiderling
reishi mushroom
Rhus glabra
Sangre de Grado
Sanicle
Sapindus mukorossi
slippery elm bark
Stillingia
Thuja
turmeric
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
Waltheria ovata
Witch Hazel
Wrightia tinctoria
Zinc
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
