Urea: discover the ingredient that helps you overcome cracks!

THE urea It is widely recognized as a valuable ingredient in the field of skin care, especially when it comes to intense hydration. 

This is because its potential to combat dreaded cracks is one of the main reasons for its popularity in dermocosmetic products, but there is much more to discover about its properties. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits and science behind urea, as well as understanding why it’s so highly recommended for dry and sensitive skin. 

So, if you’re looking for healthier, crack-free skin, read on to find out how urea could be the solution.

What is urea and how does it act on the skin?

Urea is an organic compound naturally present in our skin, being a component of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). 

This factor is a set of molecules that help maintain moisture in the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, urea is highly effective in promoting hydration because it acts as both a humectant and a keratolytic agent. 

In other words, it not only attracts water to the cells, but also removes dead cells, promoting skin regeneration.

Urea is widely used in dermocosmetics, mainly in concentrations of 5% to 10%, for the treatment of conditions such as intense dryness, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. 

Furthermore, recent studies indicate that urea also helps with the skin barrier, strengthening the skin's resistance against external agents and minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL, transepidermal water loss), a crucial factor in preventing dryness.

Efficacy data

A research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment demonstrated that the application of a cream with 10% urea to dry skin resulted in a significant improvement in hydration in just seven days. 

Therefore, the combination of urea's moisturizing and exfoliating properties makes it a very effective ingredient in combating cracks, especially on the feet and elbows.

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Properties of Urea	Function in the Skin
Humectant	Increases water retention in cells
Keratolytic	Removes dead cells
FNH Restorer	Improves the natural moisture barrier
Anti-inflammatory	Reduces irritation in sensitive skin

Why is urea effective in combating cracks?

Cracks, particularly on the feet and elbows, are a common problem for those with dry skin, as they occur when the skin loses its natural moisture, becoming rough and vulnerable to cracking. 

Therefore, urea, due to its keratolytic properties, helps to soften these hardened areas, promoting controlled exfoliation that allows for faster cell renewal.

In addition to its exfoliating action, urea has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin, reaching the driest layers. 

This is especially helpful for areas prone to extreme dryness, such as the heels, which often experience painful cracks. 

A study carried out by Skin Research and Technology revealed that regular application of creams containing 10% to 20% urea to dry areas can visibly reduce roughness and cracking, providing smoother, more flexible skin.

Additional Benefits of Urea for Skin Health

In addition to combating cracks, urea also offers additional benefits that are lesser known but equally important for overall skin health. 

In higher concentrations, such as 30% to 40%, it is used to treat more serious conditions such as keratosis pilaris, where its keratolytic action helps to soften rough, coarse skin.

Another benefit is its ability to reduce itching associated with very dry skin and dermatological conditions such as eczema. 

This is because, as it has anti-inflammatory properties, urea reduces irritation and helps keep the skin comfortable, even in cases of extreme sensitivity.

Furthermore, this ingredient promotes the absorption of other active ingredients, enhancing the effectiveness of products that combine moisturizing actives, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

This means that by using products with urea, you improve the penetration of other moisturizing agents, maximizing the overall hydration and protection effect on the skin.

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How to choose and apply products with this component?

To get the most out of the benefits of urea, it is essential to choose the right product for your specific needs. 

In general, for the daily care of dry and moderately dry skin, a concentration of 5% to 10% is sufficient. 

However, for areas such as the feet or regions with intense cracks, creams with 20% urea are recommended.

That said, the ideal application is after showering, when the skin is still slightly damp, which makes it easier for the ingredients to penetrate. 

Furthermore, it is recommended to apply the cream with gentle movements, massaging well until completely absorbed, especially in drier areas. 

Finally, in cases of severe cracks, it is useful to supplement with an emollient moisturizer or even wear cotton socks to enhance the hydration effect.

Comparison between urea and other moisturizing ingredients

Below is a comparison between urea and other common moisturizers, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, so you can understand how urea stands out in hydration and combating cracks:

Ingredient	Properties	Effectiveness against cracks
Urea	Moisturizing and keratolytic	High
Hyaluronic Acid	Humectant	Average
Glycerin	Moisturizing and softening	Average

Precautions when using products with this ingredient

Although urea is safe and well tolerated by most people, some precautions are important. 

This is because, on very sensitive skin, slight burning may occur when applying higher concentrations, such as 20% or more. 

It is recommended to do a patch test before using on large areas, especially if you have a pre-existing dermatological condition.

Additionally, avoiding use on broken skin is also important, as urea can cause irritation if applied to open areas or wounds. 

Finally, use should be discontinued if any adverse reaction occurs, such as intense redness or excessive flaking.

Conclusion: urea as an ally against cracks and healthy skin

Urea is, without a doubt, one of the most complete ingredients for those looking for deep hydration and to combat cracks. 

This is because its ability to promote cell renewal, attract water to the skin and improve the skin barrier makes it essential in intensive care. 

With proper use and smart product choices, urea can transform the health and appearance of your skin, giving you the comfort and smoothness you deserve.

Read also: What are the dry areas of the body, and how to treat them? – Beauty magic blog.