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.