Very dry, cracked and calloused skin is a common complaint among those who come in contact with external irritants. This problem also affects elderly people and those suffering from chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney failure, as well as people who remain in bed for long periods of time. To reduce the resulting discomfort, try using creams with urea. This ingredient has numerous beneficial properties.

What is urea?

Urea is a chemical substance that plays a very important role in maintaining the good condition of the skin. 7% of this ingredient is found in NMF, or the skin's natural moisturising factor, which constitutes up to 30% of the stratum corneum. However, the amount of urea in NMF decreases with age. Although it is a natural process, the loss of this component, especially when it is sudden and rapid, can negatively affect the condition of the epidermis. Therefore, replenishing urea by using the right skincare products is quite important. 

What are the properties of urea?

Urea is completely safe for the skin and does not cause allergies, so it can be used even by those with sensitive skin. 

Due to its properties, it not only helps moisturise the epidermis, but also exfoliates it, thus stimulating it to regenerate and rebuild. Furthermore, it soothes irritation, itching and inflammation and plays an important role in building the skin's protective layer against harmful external factors, which is a crucial part of any skincare routine¹. 

Depending on its concentration in the cosmetic product, urea can be used in a variety of skin conditions.

How is urea used in cosmetic products?

Urea is most commonly used in products for dry, irritated and calloused skin, skin affected by atopic dermatitis, as well as in products designed for those who remain in bed for long periods of time or struggle with various conditions that cause skin roughness. This ingredient is also found in Seni Care products, such as:

• Seni Care nourishing hand cream – it contains 3% urea, which – together with allantoin, panthenol, glycerin and grape seed oil – helps lubricate and moisturise the skin, as well as forming a velvety, long-lasting protective layer on its surface. This product is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not leave a sticky film, so it can be used multiple times throughout the day without causing discomfort. It is perfect for everyday use, e.g. for those who wash their hands very often; 
• Seni Care moisturising body emulsion – this product is designed for extremely dehydrated skin. It contains 4% urea which – in synergy with other active ingredients – helps soften, regenerate, smooth and firm the epidermis. As a result, it alleviates the unpleasant sensation of tightness. This product is characterised by a lightweight texture and spreads easily on the skin, which makes it perfect for everyday use;
• Seni Care nourishing foot cream – it contains 7% urea, as well as the linseed biocomplex, allantoin, glycerin and vitamin A, which help soften, smooth and firm calloused and cracked skin of the feet. These ingredients help restore softness to the skin and leave it feeling pleasant to the touch. Foot cream with urea is characterised by a rich texture, which – contrary to what might be expected – is quickly absorbed by the skin. Furthermore, it is a perfect product for everyday use, because it contains an odour neutraliser. This ingredient helps refresh the skin of the feet and neutralise any unpleasant odours;
• Seni Care cream for dry and calloused skin – urea at a high concentration (10%), combined with vitamin E, lanolin, panthenol and lactic acid, helps regulate the keratolytic processes that occur in the epidermis. It restores balance to the skin and promotes its nourishment, hydration and lubrication. It is a heavy-duty product, perfect for when the heels, elbows or knees become too dry and calloused. This cream can also be used as an overnight compress if the skin needs an extra dose of hydration. 

Urea can be used for many different purposes, because the intensity of its action depends on its concentration. The lower its concentration, the more it helps hydrate the skin. The higher its concentration, the broader its range of properties. As a result, urea at high concentrations not only moisturises the skin, but also supports the keratolytic processes that occur in the epidermis².

Which Seni Care skin cleansing products contain urea?

As a substance that promotes hydration, urea is a perfect ingredient of not only skincare products, but also skin cleansing products. This is why it is featured in Seni Care products which are designed to cleanse the skin with and without water, such as:

• Seni Care wash cream 3-in-1 for use without water – its ingredients help preserve the hydrolipid barrier of the skin and protect it against harmful external factors. It also contains 3% urea which leaves the skin feeling well hydrated and soft to the touch;
• Seni Care creamy gel for use without water – it contains linseed oil, olive oil and milk thistle extract which help cleanse, nourish and moisturise the skin. 3% urea not only softens the skin, but also relieves itching. As a result, all of these ingredients help improve the condition of the skin;
• Seni Care moisturising shampoo – a perfect choice for the patients who remain in bed for long periods of time, this product lathers and rinses off easily. Furthermore, it contains 3% urea which helps exfoliate dead epidermis and moisturise the scalp, as well as panthenol, the linseed biocomplex, lactic acid, vitamins and frankincense extract which improve the condition of the hair. 

The wide range of products allows you to choose the right solution to the problem you or your loved one are facing. 

Do you want to restore smoothness, softness and elasticity to your skin? Seni Care products with urea are here to help. 

1. http://miesiecznikchemik.pl/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/chemik_2014_02-2.pdf 

2. https://kosmetologa.pl/zdrowie/mocznik-w-kosmetykach-wlasciwosci-i-zastosowanie.html