Loading…
Answer: Urea (Cosmetic) is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: AmLactin Foot Repair Cream, Eucerin Roughness Relief Cream (10% Urea), Gold Bond Ultimate Softening Lotion.
TL;DR: Urea (Cosmetic) is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name UREA. Also called Carbamide. CAS 57-13-6.
Other names: Carbamide, Urea 10%, Urea 40%
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | AmLactin Foot Repair Cream, Eucerin Roughness Relief Cream (10% Urea), Gold Bond Ultimate Softening Lotion, CeraVe SA Cream |
| CAS number | 57-13-6 |
Urea is a naturally occurring organic compound that is a byproduct of protein metabolism, found in urine and skin. In cosmetics, synthetic urea is used at varying concentrations for different effects: 2–10% as a humectant; 10–20% as a keratolytic (softening/exfoliating thickened skin); 20–40% for calluses and nail penetration.
At low concentrations, urea attracts water to the skin. At higher concentrations, it breaks down the protein bonds in thickened skin (keratolysis), making it effective for dry, scaly conditions like xerosis, psoriasis, and athlete's foot.
Cosmetic urea is safe and has been used for decades in dermatology for very dry and keratotic skin conditions. The CIR has confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. At concentrations above 10%, it may cause mild stinging on broken or inflamed skin. No carcinogenicity or hormone disruption is documented. Urea is considered an active ingredient in OTC skin softeners in Europe.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Urea (Cosmetic)with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Lactic acid at low concentrations as an alternative humectant-exfoliant; glycerin for pure humectancy.
Cosmetic urea is synthetically manufactured and is not derived from urine. It is chemically identical to naturally occurring urea but produced via synthesis from ammonia and carbon dioxide.
For moisturizing: 2–10%. For rough/scaly skin: 10–20%. For calluses or nails: 20–40%. Higher concentrations are more potent keratolytics and should be applied to specific areas, not the face.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Urea (Cosmetic) or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.