Urea, a naturally occurring component of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), is widely utilized in skincare due to its dual hydrating and exfoliating properties. At low concentrations (2 – 10%), urea acts as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to improve hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss. In higher concentrations (10 – 40%), it becomes keratolytic, loosening the intercellular matrix of the stratum corneum to gently slough off dead skin cells and improve texture—making it exceptionally effective for treating conditions like eczema, psoriasis, calluses, and keratosis pilaris.
In hair and scalp care, urea offers notable benefits as a clarifying and soothing agent. It helps exfoliate the scalp, reducing dandruff and flaking, while hydrating the skin and alleviating itchiness. By disrupting dead skin buildup, urea supports a healthier scalp microbiome and can enhance volume in fine hair types, promoting overall hair manageability.
Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GREAT
Type of Ingredient:
Hydrator, Moisturizer, Texture Enhancer, Exfoliant, Soother, Anti-Inflammatory Agent and Barrier Support
Intended Function:
To deeply hydrate, gently exfoliate, reinforce the skin barrier, and soothe sensitive or flaky skin and scalp.
Common Applications:
Featured in moisturizers, body lotions, foot creams, cleansers, scalp treatments, and hair-dandruff formulations.
Target Audience:
Ideal for brands formulating products targeting dry, sensitive, or rough skin, as well as those addressing scalp flakiness, scalp irritation, or fine hair requiring gentle clarification.
Also Known As:
Carbamide.
Safety Analysis
Urea is generally well-tolerated and safe for topical use. Lower concentrations are suitable for regular application, while higher levels—above 20%—should be used carefully, especially on sensitive areas like the face, and may require medical supervision. Mild irritation or stinging may occur initially, particularly at higher concentrations. Urea is non-comedogenic and typically safe unless used on broken skin or by individuals with known sensitivities.
References
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