Urea

Urea is a naturally occurring waste product that’s produced on the skin when the body breaks down proteins. It’s a component of the epidermis that plays an important role in the maintenance of skin hydration.

Urea is part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor, which involves several components that keep the hydration balanced in the most outer layers.

It’s actually the major organic component of urine, but it’s also found in sweat, blood and human milk.

Synthetic urea is manufactured for topical creams and skin care products. Although our skin already contains urea, creams and gels containing the component are made and used topically to soften dry, cracked skin.