Urea

INCI NAME: Urea

Urea is a skin‑identical component of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). At lower concentrations it acts primarily as a humectant, binding water to increase hydration and improve elasticity—making it a staple for chronic dryness and a weakened barrier.

At higher concentrations, urea also has gentle keratolytic activity, helping loosen and smooth compacted dead skin so rough patches feel softer and more even. This dual function—hydrating plus softening—makes urea especially useful for areas prone to thickening or flaking (hands, elbows, heels) and for texture concerns where you want exfoliation without the sharpness of stronger acids.

Urea benefits:

  • Boosts hydration (NMF support)
  • Softens rough, thickened skin
  • Helps reduce flaking and scaling
  • Improves feel of dry patches
  • Supports smoother-looking texture

Urea is best for:

  • Very dry or flaky skin
  • Rough texture on body (feet, elbows, hands)
  • Keratosis‑prone areas
  • Dehydrated, barrier‑impaired skin

Aliased with:

  • Urea
  • Carbamide
  • Carmide
  • Ureum

Cautions:

Urea can sting on fissured, freshly shaved, or broken skin—start with lower concentrations and increase as tolerated.

When paired with other exfoliants (AHA/BHA/retinoids), monitor for irritation and use sunscreen in daytime routines.