Beauty

It can treat calluses, psoriasis, flakes, and more.

If youve examinedingredients in your moisturizer, youve probably noticed urea listed then wondered what exactly that is.

Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, tells Bustle.

Your guide to using urea in skin care, an under-the-radar moisturizing hero.

Brandon Camp, M.D.

And this is why youll often find it within moisturizing beauty products, says Camp.

Other humectants you might be more familiar with are its more popular peers in skin care, includinghyaluronic acidandglycerin.

Eucerin Roughness Relief

Considering its science-backed hydrating abilities, why is urea not as widely talked about?

Keep reading for what dermatologists have to say about using urea in skin care.

We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle’s editorial team.

ISDIN Ureadin Ultra 40 Exfoliant Gel-Oil

What Does Urea Do For Skin?

What makes urea so special is its unique combo of benefits.Dr.

The concentration of urea youre using affects what you get out of the ingredient.

Soft Services Carea Cream

Rachel Nazarian, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, tells Bustle.

(Another keratolytic agent?Salicylic acid.)

Urea is also particularly useful in treating certain skin conditions.

SkinCeuticals Body Retexturing Treatment

Urea can also be used to help treat calluses,psoriasis,keratosis pilaris, andeczema, Garshick says.

As for mixing it with other ingredients, derms say to becautious with your exfoliants.

Which Concentration Is Right For Me?

Chirosmooth Hand Cream

The proper concentration is completely dependent on your skins needs.

Its bothfragrance-freeand dye-free, too, making it a good choice for all skin types.

It helps to soften and smooth the skin without leaving the skin feeling greasy, Garshick tells Bustle.

These superstar ingredients all work together to seamlessly deliver smooth, soft, and moisturized skin, he says.

Studies referenced:

Celleno L. (2018).