Evidence supporting the use of: Urea
For the health condition: Itching

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Urea is a well-established ingredient in dermatology, particularly for its role as a keratolytic and humectant. Scientific evidence supports its use in managing xerosis (dry skin) and conditions characterized by pruritus (itching), especially when the itching is associated with dryness or hyperkeratotic disorders. Urea helps to increase the water content of the stratum corneum by dissolving intercellular matrix, thereby softening and hydrating the skin. This mechanism can reduce itchiness by restoring the skin barrier and improving hydration, which are often compromised in conditions like atopic dermatitis, eczema, and ichthyosis. Several randomized controlled trials and clinical guidelines recommend topical urea (typically in concentrations of 5%–10% for mild dryness and up to 40% for severe hyperkeratotic conditions) for its ability to reduce pruritus and improve skin condition. Its antipruritic effect is considered secondary to its moisturizing and barrier-restoring properties, rather than directly affecting itch pathways. Systematic reviews and expert consensus documents in dermatology consistently include urea-containing products as first-line or adjunctive therapy for pruritic dermatoses related to dryness. However, while there is moderate-quality evidence supporting urea's benefit for itch associated with dry or thickened skin, there is less evidence for its use in pruritus unrelated to barrier dysfunction. Overall, urea's use for treating itch is scientifically supported, though most robust for dryness-associated itching.

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Products containing Urea

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.