Humectant

Urea

Urea is a humectant. It draws water into the outer layer of skin and helps hold it there. Skin already makes some as part of its own moisturising factor. Moisturisers add more to leave dry-feeling skin softer and smoother.

On the label: Urea
Common role: Humectant

01 · Routine fit

Where it can be useful.

Dry-feeling or rough-feeling skin, and moisturisers meant to soften without leaving a heavy film. Urea helps the outer layer of skin hold water^[1]^[3].

02 · Read the whole formula

What to keep in view.

Face and body moisturisers usually use a low percentage. Products with high percentages are sold for thick, rough areas such as heels and elbows^[1].
Pair it with an emollient or occlusive layer so the water it draws in does not simply evaporate^[2].
It can tingle on freshly shaved or chapped skin. Try a new product on a small area first, and stop if irritation develops.

03 · Often paired with

Questions, answered plainly

Before you add another step.

Is the urea in skincare taken from urine?

No. Cosmetic urea is made synthetically. It is the same molecule skin makes in small amounts as part of its own moisturising factor.

What percentage of urea should I look for?

Everyday face and body moisturisers usually sit at the low end, often around 5 to 10 percent. Higher percentages are made for rough areas such as heels. Follow the label on where to use it.

Can I use urea with an exfoliating acid?

Higher strengths of urea also loosen rough surface buildup, so stacking it with an acid exfoliant can be too much at once. Add one new product at a time.

Sources

References checked for this ingredient note.

These sources back the general points on this page. They do not show that every product or routine suits every person.