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The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

UREA

CAS Number 57-13-6
Chem/IUPAC Name: Urea
EINECS/ELINCS No: 200-315-5
COSING REF No: 38838
UREA
Urea, in the context of cosmetics, refers to a synthetic or naturally occurring compound known as carbamide. It is a white, odorless crystalline substance with the chemical formula CO(NH2)2. Urea is commonly used in skincare and personal care products due to its hydrating and exfoliating properties. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture, helping to improve skin hydration. Urea also has keratolytic effects, aiding in gentle exfoliation by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells. This makes it a valuable ingredient in moisturizers, creams, lotions, and foot care products, promoting smoother, softer skin with improved moisture retention.

What is UREA used for?

Urea finds diverse applications in the cosmetic industry due to its beneficial properties. In skincare, it is commonly used in moisturizers, creams, and lotions as a humectant to attract and retain moisture, thereby improving hydration and preventing dryness. Urea's gentle exfoliating properties make it suitable for foot care products, helping to soften calluses and rough skin. It is also utilized in hair care formulations to enhance moisture retention and manageability. Additionally, urea can be found in nail care products as it aids in moisturizing and strengthening nails. Its versatile nature makes urea a versatile ingredient for addressing various skincare and hair care concerns.

Origin

Urea can be produced synthetically through the reaction of ammonia and carbon dioxide. It can also be derived from natural sources, such as animal urine or plant-based materials. In the industrial process, urea is typically synthesized using the Haber-Bosch process, which involves combining ammonia and carbon dioxide under high pressure and temperature to form urea.

What does UREA do in a formulation?

  • Humectant
  • Skin conditioning

Safety profile

Urea is typically considered safe and non-toxic for use in cosmetics. However, it can show some minor side effects like skin irritation or redness. A patch test is highly recommended. Further, the normal usage range of urea in cosmetic products varies but is typically between 1% and 10%, depending on the specific formulation and intended purpose.

Technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 135°C
Melting Point 130°C
pH 6.0-7.5
Solubility Highly soluble in water
Viscosity Low
4

Commercial Selection : Grades containing solely UREA

36
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