Ingredients
What does urea cream do?
Urea is part of the skin's natural moisturising factor. At low strengths it hydrates; at high strengths it softens and thins thickened skin, which is why you find it in both face creams and heel creams.
At a glance
- Best for
- Very dry and flaky skin, rough arms and legs (keratosis pilaris), heels and elbows
- Typical strength
- 2–10% for hydration; 10–20% for rough skin; 40% for thickened heels and calluses
- When
- Once or twice a day, after bathing
- Pairs well with
- Ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid
- Caution
- Don't use high strengths on the face, open wounds or cracked, irritated skin
What is urea?
Urea is a component of the natural moisturising factor (NMF), which holds water in the top layer of skin. In conditions such as dry skin and atopic eczema, the skin's urea content is lower. Cosmetics use pure, lab-made urea.
Benefits for skin
At low strengths urea is a humectant: it draws water to the skin surface and supports barrier function. As the strength increases, its keratolytic effect takes over, loosening the structures that hold dead cells together and softening thickened, flaky skin. That is why different strengths are used for very dry skin, keratosis pilaris, cracked heels and calluses.
How to use it
Apply moisturisers with 5–10% urea for face and body after bathing, while skin is still slightly damp. For rough, bumpy skin on arms and legs, 10–20% products are more effective. Creams with 25–40% urea are only for thickened heels, elbows and around the nails, not for the face.
Things to watch out for
Urea can sting on irritated, cracked skin or during an eczema flare; switch to a low-strength, simple moisturiser at those times. Don't use high strengths on the face or sensitive areas. Because urea is part of skin's own structure, its use in pregnancy is generally considered safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use urea cream on your face?
Face products with 5–10% urea can be used safely on dry skin. Don't apply 20% or stronger products such as heel creams to your face.
What is the difference between 10% and 40% urea cream?
Products around 10% hydrate and gently soften rough skin. 40% urea has a strong keratolytic effect and is only for thickened areas such as heels and calluses.
Urea cream stings; is that normal?
Mild stinging can happen on cracked or irritated skin. If it is strong or doesn't settle, stop using it and try a lower-strength product.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, are pregnant or take regular medication, talk to a dermatologist before starting a new active ingredient.
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