A urea derivative – a strong NMF-class humectant. Holds water in the stratum corneum better than glycerin without stickiness or irritation. Pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
NMF humectant, outperforms glycerin in water retention. Low irritation risk.
Hydroxyethyl Urea is a urea derivative in which one hydrogen atom is replaced by a 2-hydroxyethyl group. INCI: Hydroxyethyl Urea. Sold under the Hydrovance brand (Akzo Nobel). A colorless viscous liquid, miscible with water. In cosmetics it works as a strong humectant – a component of the skin's NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor). It outperforms glycerin in water-binding capacity without leaving a sticky feel. Unlike classical urea it has no unpleasant odor on decomposition and does not acidify the formula. Use levels run from 1 to 10%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. The manufacturer ran skin and systemic safety tests – no effects described. Skin profile. Low irritation potential. Very low allergen risk. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types, especially dry, dehydrated and atopic. Unlike 5-10% urea it has no keratolytic effect – a pure humectant. No active effects on collagen or pigmentation, but by improving hydration it is often mentioned in anti-aging formulas.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Hydroxyethyl Urea is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hydroxyethyl Urea suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A urea derivative – a strong NMF-class humectant.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Hydroxyethyl Urea. It may also appear as: Hydrovance, Гидроксиэтил мочевина.
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