Urea is used to treat dry/rough skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, corns, callus) and some nail problems (e.g., ingrown nails). It may also be used to help remove dead tissue in some wounds to help wound healing. Urea is known as a keratolytic.

At what percentage is urea keratolytic?

At strengths above 10 percent, according to the same 2018 review, urea creams and lotions have a keratolytic action, meaning they help exfoliate dry and flaking skin. You can use 20 percent urea creams to treat conditions like: rough patches of skin. calluses.

Is urea an exfoliant?

In small amounts, urea has beneficial water-binding and mild exfoliating properties for skin. In larger concentrations it can cause sensitivity, though large amounts can also exfoliate skin. Urea can enhance the absorption of other cosmetic ingredients.