Urea cream is increasingly used in the cosmetics sector, thanks to its powerful moisturizing action, which works to prevent skin dryness.
The urea cream has high hydration power, capable of deeply penetrating the skin, improving the dry and rough appearance of the skin. Mainly in the areas of the hands, feet and elbows. In short, urea is an organic compound found in urine and sweat.
Due to its powerful moisturizing action, exfoliating effect and low cost, it has been increasingly used in cosmetic formulations. Furthermore, urea is able to pass through dead cells and penetrate the layers of the skin, making it stay hydrated for longer.
This happens thanks to its ability to transport water present inside blood vessels to skin cells. Furthermore, urea has antimicrobial action, which prevents the proliferation of microorganisms on the skin.
Finally, above all, the urea cream has a light texture, with rapid absorption. Therefore, it does not leave it looking sticky like other moisturizers. Guaranteeing softer, more beautiful and well-cared for skin.
Urea cream: dry skin
Some parts of the body are more prone to dryness, cracking or peeling, especially during periods with drier and colder weather. This happens due to the loss of the lipid barrier, a fatty film responsible for retaining the skin’s natural moisture. Typically, the most affected areas are the feet, hands, knees and elbows.
Therefore, the causes of loss of the lipid barrier may be related to the following factors:
- Friction;
- Lack of adequate skin care;
- Constant exposure to sun, wind and dust;
- Very hot and long baths;
- Environmental factors such as dry climate, cold or excessive heat;
- Use of certain types of medications, which can help reduce the skin’s lipid barrier;
- Genetic factors;
- Constant contact with chemicals, soaps and detergents;
- Some diseases such as diabetes, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Urea cream: what is it
Urea cream is made from the active ingredient urea, which is a moisturizing organic compound from sweat and urine. In short, urea has a great capacity to retain water in the epidermal barrier (hygroscopy). Which promotes skin hydration.
Furthermore, urea also has antibacterial action. Therefore, it is used as a base in several dermatological treatments. For example, eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, etc.
Furthermore, urea cream is very effective in combating dry skin, preventing cracking. It also has the advantage of being a very affordable product. Which can be found in the form of creams, lotions and gels. With urea concentration that varies between 3%, 5% and 10%. In addition to combined formulations between urea and avocado oil and shea butter.
Finally, urea cream should be used at night. Therefore, immediately after showering, apply it to your body and, if necessary, reapply the product in the morning. However, it is important to highlight that not all of them are suitable for the face, which is an area where the skin is more sensitive. Therefore, choose an appropriate cream. And if in doubt, consult a dermatologist. Well, it will indicate the most suitable one for your skin type.
Benefits of urea cream for each skin type
Dry skin
Urea cream, in addition to its moisturizing properties, is very effective in combating dry skin. It also has the ability to stimulate collagen production, prevent cracks caused by dryness and improve the appearance of the skin.
Finally, to obtain the expected results on dry skin, the cosmetic needs to contain between 3% and 10% urea in its composition.
First mista
People with combination skin tend to have more intense oil on the nose, forehead and chin, the so-called T zone of the face. Therefore, when using urea cream, it is important to pay attention to the percentage of urea concentration present in the product’s composition.
Because urea tends to increase the oiliness of the T-zone of the face, which causes pimples to appear. Therefore, when using urea cream, choose products that have a lower concentration of the component.
Oily skin
For people with oily skin, urea cream is only recommended with a concentration above 20% of the component. Because, when used in high concentration, urea loses its moisturizing function. And it starts to act as an exfoliant by breaking down skin cells, improving its texture and removing excess oil.
However, due to a regulation by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), products with a urea concentration greater than 10% are not permitted. Therefore, higher concentrations are only found in manipulated products that are prescribed by a dermatologist.
Contraindication
Even with all the benefits provided by the organic compound, not everyone can use urea cream. Because urea has a high irritant content and can cause various reactions in sensitive skin. For example, edema, itching, hypersensitivity, irritation, etc. Therefore, pay attention to the concentration of urea present in the product’s composition.
Furthermore, it is not recommended for pregnant women, as it can put the health and development of the baby at risk. With the exception of cosmetics that contain only 3% urea in their composition. But, before starting to use the product, it is best to consult a dermatologist to resolve any doubts about urea cream.
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