Hydroxyethyl Urea

Hydroxyethyl urea is a water-soluble humectant derived from urea chemistry for use in skincare. It boosts immediate and long-lasting hydration and adds slip without greasiness, backed by solid industry data on performance.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A urea-based humectant that hydrates skin quickly and lastingly.
Category
Hydration, Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support, Sensitive Skin
Type
Humectant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Delivers quick moisture with a softer, more supple feel that persists through the day. Improves product glide for a lightweight skin finish.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Widely used in daily moisturizers, body lotions, and hand creams; also appears in sheet masks and gentle cleansers for added hydration.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Considered low irritation and non-sensitizing for most users, including sensitive skin. Avoid application on broken skin as with any cosmetic product.

Is Hydroxyethyl Urea a Good Ingredient?

This is a potent humectant with strong industry backing and some clinical support for immediate, lasting hydration. It's rated Great for its stability in water-phase formulas and generally low irritation at typical use levels.

Products with Hydroxyethyl Urea

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