Dry skin is a very common problem. It can be caused by weather, certain soaps, or underlying skin conditions. Dry skin can be rough, scaly, and itchy, causing discomfort.
Ureacin-20 is a topical cream that contains urea, a compound that helps to soften and moisturize dry, rough skin and damaged nails. It’s an emollient, which means it helps to create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to lock in moisture.
This article is a complete guide to understanding how to use Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream, its side effects, the precautions you need to take, and how to apply it properly.
What is Ureacin-20?
Ureacin-20 is a brand name for a skin cream used to treat dry, rough, or thickened skin. It’s often recommended for conditions such as:
- eczema
- psoriasis
- calluses
- keratosis pilaris
What’s in it?
The active ingredient in Ureacin-20 is urea. This particular formulation contains 20% urea, which helps the skin attract and retain moisture. That makes it both a humectant and an emollient.
Ureacin-20 comes in cream and lotion forms.
How does it work?
Ureacin-20 works in two ways:
- Emollient action: It creates an oily layer on the skin to trap water and prevent moisture loss.
- Keratolytic action: Urea helps soften and remove hardened skin, making it effective for conditions like keratosis.
What is Ureacin-20 used for?
Ureacin-20 is a brand-name topical cream with 20% urea as the active ingredient. Urea is a compound that’s found naturally in the skin. It’s known as a humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin to keep it hydrated.
Ureacin-20 is most often used to treat:
- Dry skin
But Ureacin-20 may also be used to help with the symptoms of other skin conditions, such as:
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Keratosis pilaris
- Skin damage from radiation burns
And Ureacin-20 isn’t just for skin. It may also be used to help improve the condition of damaged fingernails and toenails, and to soften them.
How to use Ureacin-20 Cream
Ureacin-20 is an emollient that can help moisturize and soften your skin. If your doctor has prescribed this cream, follow their instructions. If you’re using it on your own, here are some general guidelines for how to use it.
Application instructions
- Preparation: Wash the area of skin where you’ll be applying the cream. Use a mild soap or cleanser and leave the skin a little damp.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of Ureacin-20 to the affected area and rub it in completely. For best results, apply the cream after you bathe or shower, while your skin is still damp.
- Nail application: If you’re using Ureacin-20 on your nails, apply a generous amount, but avoid getting the cream on your cuticles. You might also consider jojoba oil for nail fungus. You may want to cover your nails with a bandage after applying the cream.
How often to use it
Use Ureacin-20 as directed by your doctor or as listed on the product label. A typical recommendation is to apply it one to three times a day, or as needed.
Precautions and warnings
Before using Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream, consider a few precautions.
General precautions
Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Open wounds and burns: Don’t apply Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream to open wounds, burns, or areas that are swollen.
- Allergic reactions: If you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing, stop using the cream and get medical help.
- Sun sensitivity: Some ingredients in this cream may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when you’re in the sun.
Special populations
If you are in one of these special populations, talk to your doctor before using Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream:
- Pregnancy: The FDA has assigned this cream to pregnancy category C. That means we don’t really know if it’s safe to use when you’re pregnant, so talk to your doctor.
- Breastfeeding: We don’t know if this cream passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor if it’s okay to use while you’re breastfeeding.
Side effects of Ureacin-20
Like any medication, Ureacin-20 can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away on their own.
Common side effects
- Mild irritation, itching, burning, or stinging when you put it on
- Redness where you put it on
Serious side effects
See a doctor right away if you have any of these side effects:
- Severe redness, burning, or irritation
- Unusual skin changes or signs of infection
When to seek medical attention
Call your doctor if your symptoms don’t get better or if they get worse.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
Drug Interactions
Since Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream is a topical medication, it’s less likely to interact with other drugs you’re taking. However, you should always tell your doctor about everything you’re taking, just to be safe.
Also, be careful when using other creams and ointments on the same area as Pedinol Ureacin-20 Cream, as that can increase the risk of skin irritation.
Storage and Disposal
To keep your Ureacin-20 cream in good condition, store it at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.
Be sure to keep it out of the reach of children. When you’re ready to dispose of any unused cream, follow your local guidelines for medication disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use urea cream on my face?
While urea creams like Pedinol Ureacin-20 can be beneficial for dry skin, using them on your face requires caution. The skin on your face is generally more sensitive. Start with a lower concentration urea cream and test a small area first. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and nostrils. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
What is Ureacin-20 used for?
Ureacin-20, containing 20% urea, is primarily used to treat dry, rough, scaly skin conditions like calluses, corns, and cracked heels. It helps to soften and moisturize the skin by increasing the water content of the skin cells, promoting exfoliation of dead skin.
Is urea the same as hydrocortisone?
No, urea and hydrocortisone are not the same. Urea is a humectant and keratolytic, meaning it attracts moisture and helps shed dead skin cells. Hydrocortisone, on the other hand, is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching. They have different mechanisms of action and treat different skin issues.
Is Ureacin the same as urea?
Yes, “Ureacin” refers to a product containing urea. Pedinol Ureacin-20 cream contains 20% urea as its active ingredient. The name “Ureacin” is simply a brand or product name that indicates the presence of urea.
Can I use urea cream on my private area?
Using urea cream on your private area is generally not recommended unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional. The skin in that area is highly sensitive, and urea can cause irritation or discomfort. If you have skin concerns in that area, consult a doctor or dermatologist for appropriate treatment options.
In Summary
Ureacin-20 is a cream you can apply directly to your skin to treat dry skin and problems with your nails.
To get the most benefit from Ureacin-20 and avoid side effects, you should always use it as directed and follow all the precautions on the label.