Urea
Urea is an amide that functions as a buffering agent, humectant and skin conditioning agent. Urea minimizes the change in the acid/base balance of a product when other ingredients are added to that product. It also slows the loss of moisture from a product during use. When used in the formulation of skin care products, urea increases the water content of the top layers of the skin.
Benefits of urea in cosmetics:
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Hydration: Urea is a powerful humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin from the environment. It helps to hydrate the skin deeply, making it softer and smoother.
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Exfoliation: Urea has mild exfoliating properties that help to loosen and remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This promotes cell turnover and reveals fresher, more radiant skin underneath.
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Barrier repair: Urea helps to strengthen the skin's natural barrier function, which is essential for protecting against environmental stressors and retaining moisture. This can help to improve the overall health and resilience of the skin.
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Skin soothing: Urea has anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm and soothe irritated skin. It can be beneficial for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dry, itchy skin.
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Enhanced penetration: Urea can also act as a penetration enhancer, helping other beneficial ingredients to penetrate more deeply into the skin. This can increase the effectiveness of skincare products and treatments.
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Compatibility: Urea is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. It is non-toxic and non-irritating, making it a gentle yet effective ingredient in skincare formulations.