What it is
Urea is a naturally occurring component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor and is one of the most established humectant and moisturizing ingredients in cosmetics. At lower concentrations it draws and holds water to hydrate the skin, while at higher concentrations it has a keratolytic, softening effect on rough or thickened skin. In sunscreens it is generally used at modest levels to improve hydration and skin feel.
Safety & warnings
Urea is generally well tolerated and is widely used even in products for dry and sensitive skin. At higher keratolytic concentrations it can cause mild stinging or tingling, particularly on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin.
Origin & sourcing
Urea used in cosmetics is synthetic, manufactured industrially; the same molecule also occurs naturally in the body and in skin as part of the natural moisturizing factor.
History
Synthetic urea holds a notable place in chemistry as one of the first organic compounds produced from inorganic starting materials, and it has a long history of use in topical moisturizing and skin-softening preparations.
Questions everyone asks
What does urea do in skincare?
It acts as a humectant that holds water in the skin to hydrate it, and at higher levels it softens rough or thickened skin.
Is urea in sunscreen the same as in the body?
It is the same molecule. The cosmetic ingredient is made synthetically, and urea also occurs naturally in skin as part of its moisturizing factor.