Allantoin is a diureide of glyoxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H6N4O3. It is also called 5-ureidohydantoin, glyoxyldiureide, and 5-ureidohydantoin. It is a product of oxidation of uric acid. It is a product of purine metabolism in most mammals except higher apes, and it is present in their urine. In humans, uric acid is excreted instead of allantoin. The presence of allantoin in the urine can be an indication of microbial overgrowth or it can be created via non-enzymatic means through high levels of reactive oxygen species. In this regard Allantoin is sometimes used as a marker of oxidative stress. Allantoin can be isolated from cow urine or as a botanical extract of the comfrey plant. It has long been used for its healing, soothing, and anti-irritating properties. Allantoin helps to heal wounds and skin irritations and stimulates the growth of healthy tissue. Allantoin can be found in anti-acne products, sun care products, and clarifying lotions because of its ability to help h
Formula
C4H6N4O3
Mol. Weight
158.12
CAS #
97-59-6
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning Agent
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Nourishing
Protecting
soothing
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
—
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
2.0%
0%3%
Reg. Limit
FDA OTC limit (Skin Protectant): 2%. 21 CFR 347.10