What is urea and how does it benefit the skin?

Urea is a compound naturally present in healthy skin, acting as a powerful humectant to attract and hold moisture. At higher concentrations, it also helps to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leading to smoother and more hydrated skin.

Can urea cause irritation?

While generally well-tolerated, urea can cause mild irritation, stinging, or redness, especially at higher concentrations (above 10%) or on sensitive or broken skin. It is advisable to start with lower concentrations if you have sensitive skin.

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Urea

Urea is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found in healthy skin. In skincare, it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, and at higher concentrations, it has keratolytic properties, helping to exfoliate dead skin cells. It can improve skin hydration, barrier function, and texture.

NoneHumectant, keratolyticEvidence: High

BenefitStrong 3.5 / 4

Hydration

Texture

Soothing

RiskLow 1 / 4

Irritation

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

Deeply hydrates skin
Exfoliates dead skin cells
Supports skin barrier
Improves skin texture

Things to watch

May cause mild irritation at higher concentrations
Can cause stinging on broken skin

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Products with Urea

UreaRepair PLUS Lotion 10% Urea

Score 4.7 / 5

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+

Score 4.4 / 5

UREA 25% Schrundensalbe (Cracked Heel Cream)

Score 4.2 / 5

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Frequently asked questions

What is urea and how does it benefit the skin?: Urea is a compound naturally present in healthy skin, acting as a powerful humectant to attract and hold moisture. At higher concentrations, it also helps to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leading to smoother and more hydrated skin.
Can urea cause irritation?: While generally well-tolerated, urea can cause mild irritation, stinging, or redness, especially at higher concentrations (above 10%) or on sensitive or broken skin. It is advisable to start with lower concentrations if you have sensitive skin.