Urea

Function: Humectant, exfoliant
Origin: Synthetic

Urea is a humectant that occurs naturally in the human body and is part of the natural moisturizing factors (NMF), a group of substances that maintain moisture balance in the skin.

Urea helps retain moisture in the skin to keep it well hydrated and replenish its moisture barrier. This ingredient also has exfoliating properties that help prevent roughness caused by dry skin and can benefit various skin conditions, including keratosis pilaris and psoriasis.