Dermatology and Therapy published a study on the benefits of urea to the skin. Neuropad Foot Repair Foam contains 10% urea for its moisturising potential.
1. Natural Moisturiser & Hydration Booster
Urea is a key component of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF), attracting and retaining water to improve hydration in the stratum corneum. It significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), restoring softness and resilience in dry, cracking skin.
2. Keratolytic & Gentle Exfoliant
At higher concentrations (typically ≥10–20 %), urea breaks down the intercellular matrix of dead skin cells, softening and removing thickened patches such as calluses, corns, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and keratosis pilaris. Because it denatures keratin without harming underlying skin, it’s effective yet gentle compared to harsher acids.
3. Skin-Barrier Strengthening & Gene Regulation
Urea enhances skin barrier function by modulating keratinocyte gene expression—promoting differentiation, lipid synthesis, and production of antimicrobial peptides. These actions boost the skin’s structural integrity and defence, aiding recovery from dry and impaired conditions.
4. Antimicrobial & Wound-Aiding Properties
Historically used in early wound care, urea possesses mild proteolytic and antibacterial effects. It encourages the skin to produce its own antimicrobial peptides, reinforcing defence against potential infections—an asset for wounds, eczema, and fungal issues.
5. Penetration Enhancer & Adjunct Treatment
Due to its ability to open corneocyte junctions and soften the barrier, urea enhances the absorption of co-administered topical agents. It’s commonly used in formulations with corticosteroids, antifungals, or retinoids to optimize therapeutic effectiveness.
6. Well‑Tolerated & Versatile Use
Urea creams are well tolerated across most concentrations. Mild irritation occurs occasionally—more so at ≥20–30 % in sensitive skin—but side effects are generally minimal. Widely available OTC (5–50 %) and trusted in treating diverse conditions—xerosis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis, nail thickening, and more—the ingredient is even listed by the WHO as an essential.
Overall, urea combines deep hydration, soft exfoliation, barrier restoration, antimicrobial support, and enhanced drug delivery in a single ingredient. Its gentle yet effective profile makes it a dermatologist-favoured choice for managing dry, scaly, or compromised skin across a wide range of conditions.