Humectant, a urea relative. Attracts moisture into the stratum corneum and softens the skin without a drying effect.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Works more gently than classic urea and rarely causes tingling. Fits sensitive skin and eye-area products.
Hydroxyethylurea is a urea derivative with an extra hydroxyethyl group. Designed as a more stable humectant than plain urea – does not release ammonia on degradation and is easier to formulate. Mechanism. Humectant: binds water in the stratum corneum and retains it there. Less potent than pure urea (carbamide) and glycerin but gives a softer skin feel and avoids the "stinging" common with urea on a damaged barrier. Where applied. Moisturizing serums, creams, body and hand products (2-10%). In Spain in Sesderma Urea, Acofarderm Urea, Roc Multi Correxion. Often combined with plain urea for two-component hydration. Evidence base. Few direct clinical RCTs on hydroxyethylurea specifically. Data extrapolated from plain urea – improved barrier function and reduced TEWL on dry and atopic skin (Loden 2003, Pan 2013). Safety. CIR rated hydroxyethylurea safe at cosmetic concentrations (2009, re-evaluated 2019). At <5% well tolerated even on sensitive skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Suitable for all skin types, especially dry, atopic, post-procedure.
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.
Hydroxyethylurea is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hydroxyethylurea suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Humectant, a urea relative.
The INCI name is Hydroxyethylurea.
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