Allantoin is a compound commonly used in skin care products for its soothing, moisturizing, and keratolytic (exfoliating) properties. The scientific evidence supporting allantoin’s benefits in general skin care is moderate. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that allantoin promotes cell proliferation and aids in wound healing, which underpins its use for general skin barrier support and regeneration. Clinical studies have shown that topical application of allantoin can improve symptoms of irritated or damaged skin, including dryness, scaling, and roughness. It is frequently included as an active ingredient in products targeting sensitive or compromised skin, such as after-sun lotions, diaper rash creams, and products intended to support skin healing after dermatological procedures.

While allantoin’s efficacy for specific dermatological conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) is less conclusively proven, its safety profile and mild, non-irritating nature make it a popular choice in formulations designed for general skin comfort and maintenance. Regulatory bodies such as the US FDA recognize allantoin as a skin protectant at specified concentrations. However, most of the evidence is based on small-scale studies or its widespread use, rather than large, robust clinical trials. Therefore, while there is scientific validation for its general skin care benefits, the strength of evidence is not as high as that for some other dermatological agents.