Urea
Urea is a colorless or white crystalline powder and is used as a humectant in cosmetics and personal care products. Urea is found in the skin’s epidermis and it is an active part of the body’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF) which functions to keep skin hydrated, protected and working efficiently.
It is an excellent hydrophilic molecule (water-loving) and holds on to water molecules in the epidermis and dermis, keeping the skin moist. When used in high concentrations, urea can be used an alternative to acid peels. It helps with the exfoliation process and enhances skin penetration for other active ingredients in cosmetic products.
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