Glow Definition
In skincare, urea is a naturally occurring compound used as a humectant and gentle keratolytic, meaning it draws moisture into the skin while also helping to soften and exfoliate rough or flaky areas. It’s found in both prescription and over-the-counter products, especially for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin.
Depending on its concentration, urea can serve different functions: lower percentages (under 10%) focus on hydration, while higher strengths (over 10%) offer mild exfoliating effects that support smoother texture — without the friction of physical scrubs.
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Why It Matters
Urea is one of the most multitasking hydrators in skincare, offering both moisture-binding and skin-smoothing properties. As part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factors (NMF), it plays a direct role in maintaining barrier flexibility — especially when dryness, flakiness, or sensitivity are present. Unlike some exfoliants, urea gently dissolves dead skin cells without triggering visible irritation, making it a standout for delicate or compromised skin types.
Its versatility also means it can appear across various formulas: from foot creams and hand treatments to face lotions for barrier repair. At lower levels, it supports hydration in a similar way to glycerin or hyaluronic acid, while higher concentrations offer low-friction exfoliation ideal for thickened or rough patches. It’s a quiet staple that works behind the scenes to restore smoothness — and strengthen skin’s water retention over time.
GLOW TIP If your skin feels both flaky and tight, look for a moisturizer with low-dose urea (around 5%) to gently resurface and rehydrate in one step — no need for a separate exfoliant.
Why We Love It For Glow
Urea is one of the rare ingredients that can both soften skin and replenish it — a dual action that’s especially helpful when your glow is compromised by roughness or dehydration. It works by loosening dead skin cells on the surface while simultaneously drawing moisture deeper into the skin, helping everything look and feel smoother without harsh exfoliation.
Its multitasking nature makes it an unsung hero in glow routines that focus on gentle recovery. You’ll often find it in hand creams, foot treatments, and face moisturizers formulated for sensitive skin types, especially when barrier support is a priority. Low concentrations offer mild, cushiony hydration, while slightly higher levels can visibly refine texture — just without the sting.
Reach for Eucerin Replenishing Skin Relief Face Cream (with 5% Urea) — a hydrator that’s equal parts practical and glow-friendly.
This fragrance-free cream blends 5% urea with ceramides and NMFs to help replenish moisture and support skin barrier resilience — ideal for dry, flaky, or compromised skin in need of a gentle reset.
FAQ
Is urea good for dry, flaky skin?
Yes, urea in skincare is often used in moisturizers designed for dryness because of its dual action — it helps attract water to the skin and softens rough patches. It’s commonly found in creams formulated for dry elbows, knees, and barrier-compromised areas.
Can I use urea if I have sensitive or reactive skin?
Urea is typically well tolerated at lower concentrations (like 2–5%) in moisturizers. If your skin is reactive, start with a lower percentage and avoid pairing it with exfoliating actives on the same night to minimize the chance of overstimulating your skin.
What’s the difference between urea and other hydrators like glycerin or hyaluronic acid?
While glycerin and hyaluronic acid are humectants that pull water into the skin, urea goes a step further by also helping to smooth texture. It acts as both a humectant and a gentle keratolytic, making it unique for skin softening while still supporting hydration.