What Is Urea in Skincare?

Although the name may sound unusual, cosmetic urea is a useful skincare ingredient and is manufactured for use in skincare products.

Urea is also naturally found as part of the skin's natural moisturizing factors.

At appropriate concentrations, it acts as a humectant, helping the skin retain moisture. At higher concentrations, it can also have keratolytic effects, meaning it helps soften and loosen thick or rough skin.

For this reason, urea is commonly found in products formulated for very dry, rough, or thickened skin, particularly on areas such as the feet, elbows, and hands.