Urea 100 g

Cosmetic urea: benefits in cream

Urea (carbamide) is white granules or crystals that are soluble in polar media (water, ethanol). It deeply moisturizes the skin and at high doses is a keratolytic: it loosens the top layer, accelerates the exfoliation of dead cells from the skin surface.

Component characteristics and features of use

INCI: Urea

Molecular Formula: H2NCONH2

Synonyms  - Carbamide

CAS № 57-13-6

Appearance: urea is available in the form of crystals or granules. The appearance may vary depending on the batch.

Dosage: 1-5%, up to 10% as a keratolytic

Solubility: in water at a temperature not exceeding 50 ° C

Storage: long-term storage is recommended in a dark place at a temperature of up 15 to 25 °C, protect from direct sunlight.

What is urea

Urea has a low molecular weight, which allows it to easily penetrate the stratum corneum. It is present in its natural form in the stratum corneum of the skin and is part of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF – a complex of substances with moisture-retaining properties). Healthy skin contains 8 μg/cm2. In dry skin, the urea content is reduced to 3 μg/cm2, and in damaged skin only 1.5 μg/cm2. Very low concentrations are characteristic of aging skin, skin affected by eczema and psoriasis. The record holder for urea deficiency is skin with signs of atopic dermatitis.

Cosmetic properties of urea

• moisturizes the skin
• retains water from the air,
• keratolytic - loosens the top layer, accelerates the exfoliation of dead cells from the skin surface,
• soothes the skin - relieves itching, has a local anesthetic effect,
• reduces irritation from the effects of surfactants (shampoos, detergents, etc.),
• due to increased skin hydration and low molecular weight promotes the penetration of other active substances into the skin.
   

Urea is used in the treatment of

• psoriasis, neurodermatitis and eczema,
• hyperkeratosis,
• ichthyosis,
• dandruff.

Suitable for areas such as elbows, knees and feet, which are traditionally drier than other areas and lack regular moisture. Can be used in nail care products, softens the cuticle. Low concentration of urea is used in case of dry skin in children over 3 years old. It is recommended to apply cream with urea to damp skin to increase the moisturizing effect.
 

Precautions

• avoid getting urea in the eyes, for this reason it is not recommended to use urea for eyelid care products,
• do not use if there are cracks, burns or wounds on the skin, inflammation,
• refrain from using in case of skin infections,
• at high concentration (about 10%) can cause burning,
• in case of urea intolerance, the skin can respond with itching, irritation and rash.

Handmade cosmetics recipes, formulas and reviews

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