The skin-soothing ingredient your skin craves!

It’s that time of year—when less humidity and drier air means our super hydrating serums, rich creams, and moisture-boosting ingredients come out to play. You’ve probably stocked up on your Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide-infused products, but there’s a skin-soothing star that deserves its place in your regimen: Allantoin.

Never heard of Allantoin? You’re not alone. “Allantoin is one of my favorite lesser-known ingredients,” says Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD of Schweiger Dermatology in New York City. “It’s so useful for healthy, hydrated skin, but rarely gets the credit.” Allantoin is commonly derived from the comfrey plant and used in skincare for its many benefits, namely its moisturizing and soothing properties, and its ability to reduce irritation and inflammation.

“Allantoin supports healthy skin, improves the skin barrier, boosts wound-healing pathways, and acts as a skin protectant,” says Dr. Nazarian. Dealing with rosacea or eczema? Allantoin’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe symptoms to promote relief. It’s also gentle and safe on almost all skin types, even sensitive. “It’s rare to have an allergy to Allantoin, says Dr. Nazarian. “It tends to go well when paired with other ingredients, which is probably why it’s found so often in skincare products.”

It’s also great for restoring your radiance post-summer. Thanks to its keratolytic properties, Allantoin exfoliates dead skin cells from your skin’s surface and boosts cell proliferation—all of which can improve dullness. Seeking a youthful glow? Allantoin is a winner. Our pick: Redness Rehab Sensitive Skin Soothing Cream.