Humectant ·
Urea
What is it?
A natural moisturizing factor component and mild keratolytic agent, one of the most extensively studied moisturizing actives in dermatology.
What does it do?
Humectant and mild keratolytic -- a randomized, controlled, single-blind right-vs-left trial in ichthyosis vulgaris patients found a 10% urea lotion produced a significantly greater reduction in scaling, roughness, redness and cracking than a standard glycerol-based emollient cream over 4 weeks, with comparable tolerability.
How to use
Typically formulated at 10% (studied concentration in the head-to-head RCT); also formulated at higher keratolytic-strength concentrations.
Sources
This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.