Urea

Urea is an organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂ . It is naturally produced by the human body and plays a key role in protein metabolism.

Properties :

Solubility: Highly soluble in water.

Stability: Stable at room temperature.

Origin and Production

In the body :

Urea is synthesized in the liver during the urea cycle, a process that removes toxic ammonia produced by protein breakdown.

Excretion :

It is eliminated by the kidneys via urine.

Industrial synthesis :

Urea is produced for various industrial and cosmetic uses.

Recommended concentrations

2-5% : Light hydration, suitable for normal to dry skin.

5-10% : Intense hydration and gentle exfoliation, for very dry or rough skin.

10-20% : Used under medical supervision for specific skin problems.

The benefits of urea for the skin

1. Deep hydration

Humectant : Urea attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to maintain optimal hydration.

Restores the skin barrier : It strengthens the skin's barrier function, reducing transepidermal water loss.

2. Keratolytic action (gentle exfoliating)

Removes dead cells : Urea softens and dissolves dead cells in the stratum corneum, improving skin texture.

Smoothes the skin : It reduces roughness and dry areas, making the skin softer.

3. Soothing and anti-itching

Soothes irritation : It calms sensitive or irritated skin, particularly in cases of eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis.

Reduces itching : It is often used to soothe itchy skin.

4. Suitable for dry and very dry skin

Rehydrates dehydrated skin : It is particularly effective for dry, flaky or chapped skin.

Improves elasticity : It makes the skin more supple and comfortable.

5. Promotes the penetration of active ingredients

Improves the effectiveness of skincare : Urea helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin better, thus enhancing the effectiveness of cosmetic products.

6. Non-irritating (at low concentration)

Well tolerated : At suitable concentrations (generally between 5% and 10%), it is suitable even for sensitive skin.

Safe : It has long been used in dermatology and cosmetics.

7. Treatment of skin conditions

Eczema and psoriasis : It is often included in treatments for these conditions because of its moisturizing and soothing properties.

Rough skin : It is effective for softening thickened areas (elbows, knees, feet)

Uses in our cosmetic treatments

Urea is one of the key ingredients in our intense moisturizing body lotions , at a concentration of 5%, for its effectiveness in moisturizing, soothing and softening the skin, while improving its texture and appearance.