Urea is great in all body moisturisers

Urea in skin care: Benefits, uses & top dermatologist-approved creams

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Urea in skin care: Why it’s a game-changer for dry skin

Urea in skin care has become a hero ingredient for treating dry, flaky or irritated skin. But what exactly does it do — and why is it recommended by so many dermatologists? In this guide, we’ll unpack the benefits of urea and help you find the best creams for dry skin relief.

You’ve probably seen “urea” on your skincare product labels — and for good reason. Its humectant and exfoliating properties make it a go-to ingredient in many moisturisers, hand creams and foot balms. Whether you’re dealing with mild dryness or cracked skin, urea can make a visible difference.

Urea moisturises dry skin

Urea is a natural moisturising factor (NMF) found in healthy skin. It attracts and retains moisture, making it highly effective in replenishing hydration levels. When applied topically, urea helps soften dry, rough patches and restore suppleness.

Urea prevents moisture loss

Urea not only draws water into the skin, but also enhances the skin’s ability to lock in hydration. This dual action helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping the skin barrier intact and reducing flakiness.

Urea strengthens the skin barrier

By boosting hydration and supporting skin cell turnover, urea reinforces the protective barrier. This is especially helpful for people with compromised or sensitive skin, as it reduces irritation and improves resilience.

Urea gently exfoliates rough skin

At higher concentrations, urea acts as a gentle keratolytic agent, breaking down dead skin cells and smoothing thickened areas like elbows, heels or calluses. It’s a great choice for people with keratosis pilaris or psoriasis.

Urea improves ingredient penetration

Studies show that urea also plays a crucial role in increasing the permeability of certain skincare ingredients. It works as a vehicle for other performance ingredients by encouraging them to penetrate the skin more easily and effectively.


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Best urea creams for dry skin relief

Explore our top picks for dermatologist-approved urea creams:

For feet

DU’IT Foot & Heel Balm Plus is a high-performance urea foot cream formulated to treat dry, cracked heels. It features 25% urea to deeply hydrate and exfoliate, helping to remove rough skin and restore softness.

This fast-absorbing formula includes:

  • 25% urea to hydrate and soften dry, thickened skin
  • Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to exfoliate dead skin layers
  • Dimethicone to seal in moisture and protect
  • Tea tree and lemon myrtle extracts to reduce inflammation and support healing
  • Allantoin and panthenol to soothe and condition the skin

Approved by Diabetes Australia, it’s safe for diabetics and suitable for eczema-prone or sensitive skin. Use daily to prevent further cracking and keep your feet soft and healthy.


“I was excited to try this foot balm because I suffer from extremely dry skin on the bottom of my feet & heels. Winter has really taken it’s toll on my feet and I’ve had no time to get pedicures. I’ve been using this every night and love how the product makes my feet feel! The formula is thick, hydrating and feels soothing. I noticed a difference after the first night using it but you really see the maximum results after about a week. Absorbs easily into the feet and doesn’t leave that sticky, greasy sensation a lot of similar products do. I will definitely repurchase this product because it’s effective, economical and made a huge difference to the look and feel of my feet. I’m so happy that I got to try it out because I wouldn’t have thought to pick it up otherwise. I highly recommend giving this product a try. ” – Nys Silver,  NSW


For hands

DU’IT Tough Hands is an intensive urea hand cream clinically proven to improve dry hand conditions in just 1 day. It targets dryness, cracks and rough patches caused by frequent washing, chemicals or environmental exposure.

Its triple-action formula contains:

  • 10% urea to deeply hydrate and smooth rough skin
  • AHAs to exfoliate thick, callused areas
  • Glycerine and sodium PCA for lasting hydration
  • Vitamin E to soothe and support skin repair
  • Tea tree and lemon myrtle extracts to calm inflammation
  • Dimethicone to create a protective barrier against further damage

Ideal for tradespeople, healthcare workers and anyone needing fast, visible results for dry hands.



“This is a great moisturising hand cream. The tips of my fingers were constantly dry and the skin splitting, causing constant pain and making so many tasks difficult. Then I tried “DU’IT” for a couple of days and the relief and how quickly my skin healed was just amazing. I highly recommend it as it’s 100% Aussie made too.” – Charles, QLD


Skin dryness can appear anywhere, often found on feet and hands. Dry skin is usually not harmful, but without proper skincare, it can develop into uncomfortable itchiness and pain over time.

Take care of your dry skin with these urea creams. We recommend applying Foot & Heel Balm Plus and Tough Hands intensive hand cream 2-3 times a day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Frequently asked questions about urea in skin care

Is urea safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. In most formulations, urea is safe and well-tolerated by sensitive skin. However, always patch test before use.

Can urea be used on the face?

Yes, low to moderate concentrations of urea (up to 10%) are generally safe for facial use. Choose a formula specifically designed for the face.

What percentage of urea is best for dry skin?

5% to 10% is effective for mild to moderate dryness. For thicker, rougher areas, a concentration of 15% or higher may be more suitable.

Is urea natural or synthetic?

Urea can be found naturally in the skin, but in skincare products, it is synthetically derived to ensure stability and purity. It is a vegan-friendly, lab-made ingredient that mimics natural urea found in healthy skin.

Does urea have side effects?

Urea is generally well-tolerated. However, in high concentrations, it may cause a mild tingling or stinging sensation, especially on cracked or broken skin. Start with lower concentrations if you have sensitive skin.

Can urea be used every day?

Yes. Urea creams and lotions are safe for daily use. In fact, consistent application is key to improving dry skin conditions and maintaining hydration.

What skin types can benefit from urea?

Urea is suitable for all skin types, including dry, rough, sensitive, and mature skin. It’s particularly beneficial for people with eczema, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, or diabetes-related dryness. 5% to 10% is effective for mild to moderate dryness. For thicker, rougher areas, a concentration of 15% or higher may be more suitable.


Foot and Heel Balm Plus

DU’IT Foot & Heel Balm Plus 50g

Visible effects within 1 day, DU’IT Foot & Heel Balm Plus is an intensive heel balm formula containing 25% Urea that helps repair cracked, dry heels.

This foot cream is clinically and dermatologically tested to effectively rehydrate, soften and protect feet, giving you soft, smooth, healthy feet.

Tough Hands

DU’IT Tough Hands 150g

DU’IT Tough Hands is a clinically proven, intensive strength hand cream for dry hands that works to seal cracks, replace lost oils, condition the skin and form a protective barrier to keep hands in top condition.

It’s Australia’s No.1 hand cream* (IRI data, Grocery & Pharmacy, 2021).

Repairs dry, rough, cracked, irritated and calloused hands, with visible effects in 1 day. It’s non-greasy, made in Australia and contains no nasties.


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