Eucerin Urea Repair Original 10% Urea Cream, CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturising Cream, and Cetaphil Daily Smoothing Moisturiser for Rough & Bumpy Skin are creams and lotions that have been proven over the years to be extremely effective for dry skin relief. One Ingredient that is prevalent in all of these skin relief creams is urea. It is an ingredient that has been proven to effectively help in hydrating very dry skin.
In this blog, I will walk you through a simple step-by-step guide on how to make your own effective soothing dry skin relief cream with the inclusion of urea, but first, what exactly is urea?
UREA
According to soapery.co.uk, Urea is a compound that is naturally found in the body and is also synthesised commercially. It is made from carbon dioxide and ammonia, and the process involves the reaction of these two compounds under high pressure and temperature.
SKIN BENEFITS
Hydration (Humectant Properties):
- Urea acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin.
- It improves the skin’s water-binding capacity, leaving it hydrated and soft.
- It softens rough, scaly patches, making it particularly beneficial for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris.
- It soothes itchiness often linked with dry skin.
Exfoliation:
- Urea has keratolytic properties at higher concentrations (above 10%).
- It helps to remove dead skin cells, improving skin texture and allowing better absorption of other moisturizing ingredients.
Barrier Function Enhancement:
- Urea supports the skin’s natural barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- It helps restore and preserve healthy skin.
- Urea is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, though concentrations should be tailored to individual needs.
In addition, the soothing component of the formulation was powered by Calendula extract a derivative of marigold flower that has been used for centuries for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes irritation and redness of the skin especially sensitive inflamed skin.
It is deeply moisturizing and helps retain moisture while softening dry, flaky areas.
Also rich in antioxidants and protects against environmental damage. Furthermore, it is gentle & non-irritating Perfect for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
Vitamin B3 helps strengthen the skin barrier, boosts Collagen and can help with skin hyperpigmentation.
Vegetable Glycerine is a humectant that prevents the skin from drying out and is specifically added to complement the benefit of urea.
THE RECIPE
PHASE 1
Lavender Floral Water 63% – 157.5 grams
Vegetable Glycerin 4% – 10 grams
Urea 5% – 12.5 grams
Vitamin B3 2% – 2 grams
PHASE 2
Avocado Oil 5% – 12.5%
Avocado Butter 11% – 27.5 grams
Olivem 1000 5% – 12.5 gram
Ceteryl Alcohol 3% – 7.5 grams
PHASE 3
Calendula Extract 1% – 2.5 grams
Preservative 12 1% – 2.5 grams
Method
Measure the phase 1 Ingredients in a heat save jar and do the same for phase 2 in a different heat save jar.
Using a double boiler, heat up both phases until the temperature reaches 70°C. Once both phases reach the same temperature, slowly pour the oil phase into the water phase.
Blend using a stick blender for 3-5 minutes until it forms a creamy consistency.
Allow the emulsion to cool to below 40°C (104°F).
Measure the phase 3 ingredients and combine them.
Mix thoroughly.
Transfer the cream into sterilized containers and store it in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight.
This cream is one of the most hydrating I’ve used for my dry skin, leaving it smooth, soft, and cushioned. It has a glossy, non-soapy texture.
Have you ever tried or formulated a cream with urea? If so, what are your thoughts? If not, would you be interested in exploring it?
As always thank you so much for your support.
tlgemsandmixes 