Urea is a major component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, naturally present in healthy skin at ~7%. At low concentrations (1-10%), it is a potent humectant and barrier repair agent. At higher concentrations (10-40%), it becomes keratolytic, helping exfoliate dead skin cells.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Dual-action: moisturizes at low %, exfoliates at high %
+ Integral NMF component
+ Reduces TEWL and improves barrier function
+ Clinically proven for dry, rough, and scaly skin conditions
Pros
+ Gold-standard treatment for xerosis and keratosis pilaris
+ Enhances penetration of other active ingredients
+ Extensive clinical evidence base
+ Non-comedogenic
Cons
− Can sting on broken or very sensitive skin
− May cause irritation above 10% on facial skin
− Can affect emulsion stability
− Hygroscopic — can increase formulation tackiness