Urea is a naturally occurring molecule in the skin and is essential for maintaining hydration and integrity of the outermost layer of the skin (the stratum corneum). This helps to soothe dry, itchy skin and improves its overall appearance. It also improves skin barrier function and has antimicrobial properties.
What is Urea Cream Used For?
Urea creams can effectively reduce symptoms and improve skin appearance in several skin conditions, including dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, Tinea Pedis and Palmoplantar Keratodermis – just to name a few!
It is important to recognise that urea cream is not always a cure for all these skin conditions, but rather an adjunct treatment that can help to relieve symptoms and improve hydration and the overall appearance and integrity of the skin.
Different skin conditions will require different percentages of urea content to be effective. This makes Urea creams quite versatile in their uses across this wide range of skin conditions. It is also generally well tolerated by most skin types, making it a fairly safe product to try. Mild skin irritation sometimes occurs with higher concentrations but is temporary and self-resolving.
Stronger concentrations (40-50%) can even help with some nail conditions. We highly recommend using 40% urea cream in conjunction with topical antifungals for fungal nail treatment. Studies have shown that this combination can improve clinical results in 29%-85% of cases.
This is because Urea can improve the penetration of other topical drug treatments by aiding the transport of molecules through the skin and nails due to its water absorption properties among other things – now that seems like a little too much information, but just know that it helps absorption and penetration of other medications into the skin and nails!
For example, the use of topical antifungals, combined with a urea-based cream (10%) can reduce symptom duration and improve the response to treatment of Tinea Pedis.
4 Key Benefits of Urea Cream
The key benefits of urea cream on the skin are:
1. Improves skin hydration and overall skin health
Urea cream is an effective moisturizer that helps to hydrate the skin, making it an excellent choice for treating dry, cracked heels. By reducing water loss from the skin’s surface, it promotes smoother and healthier skin.
2. Treats or is an adjunct treatment for many skin conditions
Urea cream can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies for various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and keratosis pilaris. It helps to alleviate itching, scaling, and inflammation to improve skin condition and comfort.
3. Enhances penetration of other topical treatments for skin and nails
The keratolytic properties of urea cream allow it to break down the outer layers of dead skin cells, making it easier for other topical medications to penetrate and work effectively. This makes urea cream beneficial when used alongside other treatments like corticosteroids, retinoids, and antifungal agents.
4. Non-irritating and well-tolerated by most skin types
Urea cream is generally safe and causes little to no irritation, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Its soothing and moisturizing properties help to prevent further irritation and inflammation, promoting a healthier skin barrier.
Chat to your Podiatrist, GP or Dermatologist to see if urea is an appropriate treatment for your skin or nails. These professionals can help recommend what percentage of urea is likely to be effective for your condition and how often you should apply it.
You Deserve the Best Foot Care – Choose AC Podiatry
For smooth, hydrated skin that looks and feels great, trust in our expertise at AC Podiatry. Remember, your skin and nails deserve nourishing, high-quality care. Book an appointment with AC podiatry now and let’s unlock the versatility of urea cream together. We look forward to being a part of your journey to healthy, vibrant skin.
Ready to say goodbye to dry, calloused skin and nails? Contact us today!
