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Humectant

Urea

Natural NMF component with dual action — at low concentrations, urea deeply hydrates, at higher concentrations, it gently exfoliates the stratum corneum. One of the most effective remedies for dryness, flakiness, and hyperkeratosis.

NMFmoisturizerkeratolytichyperkeratosis
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Urea (carbamide) — an organic compound, a natural product of protein metabolism. It is a component of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) — the natural skin hydration system. In INCI: Urea. Synthetic urea for cosmetics is identical to natural. The action depends on the concentration: up to 10% — humectant and softening, 10–20% — mild keratolytic, 20–40% — strong keratolytic.

Therapeutic moisturizing component in body creams, foot creams, and products for hyperkeratosis. At low concentrations — in daily products for dry skin; at higher concentrations — in medical cosmetics for the treatment of xerosis, psoriasis, and ichthyosis.

Key Benefits

✦
Powerful hydration and softening
Urea penetrates the stratum corneum deeper than most humectants — hydrates "from within the stratum corneum," softening cracked and callused skin. 5% urea is more effective than 10% glycerin in severe xerosis.
◈
Gentle exfoliation of the stratum corneum
At concentrations of 10–20%, urea breaks hydrogen bonds in keratin, facilitating the shedding of callused cells. Effective for cracked heels, hyperkeratosis of elbows, and dry palms.
✧
Enhanced penetration of other actives
Urea as a penetration enhancer increases the absorption of other active components. In combined creams with corticosteroids or antifungal agents — enhances their effectiveness.

Suitable for

dry skinvery dry skinskin with hyperkeratosisskin of the legs

Main Actions

✓ hydration✓ exfoliation of the stratum corneum✓ softening✓ enhanced penetration
Irritation at high concentrations

Urea 20%+ may cause a tingling sensation or mild irritation upon first use — especially on damaged skin. Start with lower concentrations (5–10%) and gradually increase. On the face — usually no more than 5–10%.

CategoryHumectants
Found in these products
CeraVe SA Smoothing CreamThe Ordinary "Buffet" Multi-Technology Peptide SerumThe Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning SolutionThe Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Urea do for skin?
Therapeutic moisturizing component in body creams, foot creams, and products for hyperkeratosis. At low concentrations — in daily products for dry skin; at higher concentrations — in medical cosmetics for the treatment of xerosis, psoriasis, and ichthyosis.
Who should use Urea?
Urea is suitable for: dry skin, very dry skin, skin with hyperkeratosis, skin of the legs.
Are there any warnings about Urea?
Urea 20%+ may cause a tingling sensation or mild irritation upon first use — especially on damaged skin. Start with lower concentrations (5–10%) and gradually increase. On the face — usually no more than 5–10%.

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