Sunday, December 4, 2011

What is ALLANTOIN?

Allantoin (anti-aging cell renewal plant extract) is an extract of the Comfrey plant and is used in many cosmetic products for its soothing, anti-irritation properties and for acne control.




It actively softens the skin (Keratolytic Effect) and increases rapid cell regeneration by precipitating proteins on the skin resulting in anti-aging effects.


 



Plant origin, Asia and Europe; a perennial growing from a thick, fleshy, brown-skinned root system, that can delve deeply into the sub-soil in search of moisture and minerals. Oblonglanceolate, dark green leaves, 50-120cm long, with long, round-grooved, petiole stems. The whole plant is covered with short hairs that give a rough feel when touched. Flowers form as coiling, terminal racemes in colours of mauve, blue or pink.


 

 




The earliest reported topical use of Allantoin was in the 16th century. Roots of comfrey (Symphytum officinale) or black salsify (Scorzonera hispanica), which were later discovered to contain Allantoin, were used to treat wounds and skin ulcers. It wasn’t until 1912, that Macalister chemically identified the substance as Allantoin.





 



Allantoin is a chemical compound naturally produced by many organisms, including animals, plants, and bacteria. It is a frequent ingredient in lotions and skin creams, as well as in oral hygiene products, cosmetics, and other toiletries. Allantoin is also used in medications for dermatological conditions including acne, impetigo, eczema and psoriasis. It is effective at very low concentrations, usually from 0.1% to 2%.





 


The allantois, from which allantoin gets its name, is an embryonic excretory organ present in most mammals, expect humans and higher apes, in which the compound accumulates. Animals produce allantois as a byproduct of purine catabolism, in which the waste product uric acid is oxidized and broken down. It is also present in plants including comfrey, sugar beet, tobacco seed, chamomile, and wheat sprouts. Herbal extract of comfrey is a popular source of allantoin. It may also be synthesized from animal urea.

 

Allantoin is odorless, safe, non-toxic, and non-allergenic in both natural and chemically synthesized form. When sold on its own for use in homemade soaps, lotions, and bath products, allantoin is a white, crystalline powder. Allantoin is moisturizing and keratolytic, meaning that it causes keratin in the skin to soften. This property helps skin to heal more quickly and to bind moisture more effectively, making products containing allantoin useful for dry skin and for healing wounds, burns, and scars. It is also effective against sunburn, chapped lips, cold sores, diaper rash, and similar skin irritations.