What are the benefits of Hydroxyethyl Urea for skin?

deep humectant hydration, improved skin elasticity, smoothing rough texture, enhanced skin feel compared to glycerin, non-sticky moisture retention, hair conditioning

What concentration of Hydroxyethyl Urea is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Hydroxyethyl Urea are MANUAL REVIEW: Typical use level is 2–10% in leave-on formulations based on supplier data and product benchmarks, but a specific published concentration range from a regulatory or CIR source was not confirmed during research — verify against supplier TDS.

What skin types is Hydroxyethyl Urea suitable for?

Hydroxyethyl Urea is suitable for all skin types, dry, dehydrated, combination, oily, acne-prone, sensitive, mature.

Hydroxyethyl Urea — Skincare Ingredient Guide

Q: Can Hydroxyethyl Urea cause skin irritation?

Hydroxyethyl Urea has a low irritation risk. Hydroxyethyl urea is well tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations (2–10%). As a urea derivative it shares the mild irritancy profile of its parent compound. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to urea-based compounds should patch test, but true sensitisation is rare. Not a known irritant or allergen in standard formulations.

Q: Is Hydroxyethyl Urea safe to use during pregnancy?

Hydroxyethyl Urea is rated "safe" for pregnancy use. Hydroxyethyl urea is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy at standard cosmetic concentrations. It is a urea derivative with no known reproductive or developmental toxicity. No concerns are flagged in available cosmetic safety databases. Systemic absorption from topical leave-on products at typical use levels is negligible.

Q: Does Hydroxyethyl Urea increase sun sensitivity?

Hydroxyethyl Urea has a no sun sensitivity risk. Hydroxyethyl urea does not increase photosensitivity. It has no UV-absorbing structure and does not affect the skin's response to UV radiation. No SPF precautions are required based solely on the presence of this ingredient.

Hydroxyethyl Urea

INCI: Hydroxyethyl Urea

Hydroxyethyl urea is a urea derivative (INCI: Hydroxyethyl Urea; CAS 1320-51-0; EC 215-304-0) formed by the reaction of urea with ethylene oxide, resulting in a molecule that combines urea's powerful water-binding ability with improved skin feel. It functions as a strong humectant and skin conditioner, drawing moisture into the stratum corneum and improving skin elasticity and hydration. Unlike its parent molecule urea, it delivers moisturising performance without the sticky or tacky feel sometimes associated with glycerin, making it particularly valued in lightweight, elegant formulations.

Is Hydroxyethyl Urea safe? Key considerations

Can Hydroxyethyl Urea cause irritation?

Low Risk

Hydroxyethyl urea is well tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations (2–10%). As a urea derivative it shares the mild irritancy profile of its parent compound. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to urea-based compounds should patch test, but true sensitisation is rare. Not a known irritant or allergen in standard formulations.

Does Hydroxyethyl Urea increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Hydroxyethyl urea does not increase photosensitivity. It has no UV-absorbing structure and does not affect the skin's response to UV radiation. No SPF precautions are required based solely on the presence of this ingredient.

Is Hydroxyethyl Urea safe during pregnancy?

Safe

Hydroxyethyl urea is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy at standard cosmetic concentrations. It is a urea derivative with no known reproductive or developmental toxicity. No concerns are flagged in available cosmetic safety databases. Systemic absorption from topical leave-on products at typical use levels is negligible.

How does Hydroxyethyl Urea work?

Individuals with known hypersensitivity to urea or urea derivatives should review the considerations above before use.