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 elasticityβ€”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 functionβ€”hydrating plus softeningβ€”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 skinβ€”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.