Urea: The essential ingredient for hydrated and repaired skin
Urea is a key ingredient in cosmetics, renowned for its exceptional moisturizing and exfoliating properties. At GRAZZI , we've selected this active ingredient for its ability to transform dry and rough skin. Discover everything you need to know about this miracle compound, notably featured in our Intense Moisturizing Body Lotion .
Natural and industrial production
- In the body: Synthesized in the liver via the urea cycle , this process eliminates toxic ammonia resulting from protein breakdown.
- Excretion: Urea is eliminated by the kidneys via urine.
- Industrial synthesis: For cosmetic and pharmaceutical use, urea is produced industrially to guarantee its purity and effectiveness.
Physical properties
- Solubility: Very soluble in water, which facilitates its incorporation into light textures such as milks or creams.
- Stability: Stable at room temperature, which preserves the effectiveness of the treatment.
Urea concentrations: How to choose?
The percentage of urea in a skincare product determines its effect. Here's a guide to help you understand:
- 2-5%: Light hydration — Ideal for normal to dry skin seeking daily comfort.
- 5-10%: Intense hydration and gentle exfoliation — Perfect for very dry, rough, or dehydrated skin. This is the ideal concentration found in GRAZZI skincare products .
- 10-20%: Specific use — Reserved for intensive care under medical advice for marked skin conditions.
The 7 benefits of Urea for the skin
Urea is much more than just a moisturizer. Here's why it's so valuable in dermatology and cosmetics.
1. Deep hydration
Urea is a powerful humectant . It acts like a water magnet: it attracts and retains water in the skin, maintaining optimal hydration. It helps restore the skin barrier, thus reducing transepidermal water loss.
2. Keratolytic action (Gentle exfoliation)
It gently removes dead skin cells from the stratum corneum. As a result, it smooths the skin , reduces roughness, and softens dry areas (elbows, knees).
3. Soothing and anti-itch
Thanks to its calming properties, urea relieves irritations and reduces itching , particularly on skin prone to eczema , psoriasis or dermatitis .
4. Suitable for dry and very dry skin
It intensely rehydrates dehydrated, flaky or chapped skin , while improving skin elasticity and suppleness.
5. Promotes the penetration of active ingredients
Urea has a "boosting" effect. It improves the effectiveness of skincare by facilitating the penetration of other active ingredients into the epidermis.
6. Non-irritating at low concentrations
At appropriate concentrations (such as 5%), urea is well tolerated , even by sensitive skin. It is an ingredient long used in dermatology and recognized for its safety.
7. Treatment of skin conditions
Urea is an excellent ally for softening rough skin and treating thickened areas. It is frequently found in eczema and psoriasis treatments due to its dual moisturizing and soothing properties.
Urea in GRAZZI skincare
At GRAZZI , we formulated our Intense Moisturizing Body Lotion with 5% Urea . This concentration is ideal for enjoying all the benefits of the active ingredient: powerful hydration, a smoothing action and immediate comfort, without any irritating effect.
