Urea

Urea – a moisturising ingredient for dry, rough skin

INCI: Urea

Urea is an effective moisturising ingredient for making creams, lotions and other cosmetic products. It helps bind water in the skin’s outermost layer, leaving skin feeling softer, smoother and more supple. It is particularly useful in products for dry hands, feet, elbows and other rough areas.

Urea occurs naturally in the skin as part of the natural moisturising factor (NMF). The urea used in cosmetics is produced synthetically and is chemically identical to the urea naturally present in our skin.

Why use it?

• Hydrates: helps bind and retain water in the skin’s outermost layer.

• Softens: improves the feel of dry, rough skin.

• Smooths: at higher concentrations, helps soften thickened skin.

Uses and dosage

Adjust the concentration to the product’s purpose, area of application and skin sensitivity.

At lower concentrations, urea mainly provides hydration. Higher concentrations are intended primarily for targeted care of thickened skin and are not the first choice for facial products or sensitive skin.

Example: to make 100 g of cream containing 5% urea, use 5 g of urea. Reduce the water in the formula accordingly so that the total product weight remains 100 g.

How to incorporate it

Urea is readily soluble in water. Pre-dissolve it in a portion of the water reserved from the formula, then add the solution while stirring during the cool-down phase, generally below 40°C. Avoid prolonged heating.

Check the pH and stability of the finished formulation. Urea can contribute to pH changes during storage, so monitoring pH over time is an important part of product development.

Formulation notes

Urea is a moisturising ingredient and does not replace a preservative. Products containing water require an appropriate preservation system. Adjust the urea concentration and manufacturing process to the complete formula and the raw material supplier’s instructions.

Precautions and storage

A cosmetic raw material for making products for external use. Do not apply the powder directly to the skin. Products containing urea may cause stinging on irritated or damaged skin, particularly at higher concentrations. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

Store in tightly closed packaging in a dry place, protected from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.