Is Urea (Cosmetic) Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Urea (Cosmetic) is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
INCI name UREA. Also called Carbamide. CAS 57-13-6.
Other names: Carbamide, Urea 10%, Urea 40%
Is Urea (Cosmetic) banned in the EU?
| 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 |
What is Urea (Cosmetic)?
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.
Why is Urea (Cosmetic) used in personal-care products?
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.
Is Urea (Cosmetic) dangerous? Documented risks
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.
Products that may contain Urea (Cosmetic)
How to avoid Urea (Cosmetic): safer alternatives
Lactic acid at low concentrations as an alternative humectant-exfoliant; glycerin for pure humectancy.
Frequently asked questions about Urea (Cosmetic)
Is urea in skincare from urine?
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.
What concentration of urea should I use?
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.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Urea — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Urea — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.