Ingredient glossary

Urea

INCI: Urea

Worth paying for

Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.

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What it does

  • hydration
  • smoothness

strong evidenceSupported by cosmetic chemistry literature for its assigned function, with fewer direct clinical outcome studies than hero actives.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • rough

Approach with care

  • very sensitive high
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskModerate

Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Plays well with

  • humectants
  • ceramides

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.