Allantoin (Comfrey Extract)

Allantoin is a compound extracted from the comfrey plant (Symphytum officinale L.), a perennial herb with a dark bulbous root and hairy, broad leaves. It is native to damp, grassy areas throughout Europe, particularly Ireland and Britain, next to small bodies of water. It has long been used by herbalists for its ability to accelerate healing of broken bones (which gave the comfrey plant its colloquial name, knitbone). It's also used in traditional medicine for bronchial issues, arthritis, gastric ulcers, skin burns, acne, etc.

The allantoin extract from the comfrey plant is used extensively in skincare products as a water-soluble moisturizer and to help enhance keratolysis (by increasing the water content of the extracellular matrix and enhancing the desquamation of upper layers of dead skin cells, thereby increasing the smoothness of the skin). It also has been shown to aid in promoting cell proliferation and wound healing. It is functional as a soothing ingredient against irritation and inflammation, mostly by virtue of its ability to neutralize irritating agents within the skin.