Urea 40 cream is a topical emollient prescribed to treat dry, rough skin and nail conditions, similar to how Kerasal ointment ingredients work to provide benefits and address side effects. Urea works by softening and moisturizing the skin and is available in different forms and strengths.
This article will describe the possible urea 40 cream side effects you should know about before using it.
Understanding these possible side effects is important so you can use this medication safely and know what to do if you have a bad reaction.
What is urea 40 cream?
Urea 40 cream is a topical treatment for dry, rough, or thickened skin and nails, which can sometimes present symptoms similar to nail dystrophy.
Urea, a substance that occurs naturally in the body, is a humectant. That means it can draw moisture into your skin from the air. It also softens and smooths skin by breaking down keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of skin.
Urea 40 cream is commonly used to treat, offering a solution similar to Kerasal for foot repair:
- Eczema and psoriasis
- Keratosis pilaris
- Damaged or thickened nails
A healthcare provider may prescribe urea cream for other conditions, as well.
Common side effects of urea 40 cream
Urea 40 cream is generally well-tolerated, but, like any topical medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects are typically mild and temporary, and they usually resolve on their own as your skin adjusts. These can include:
- Itching
- A burning or stinging feeling
- Mild irritation
Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so how you react to urea 40 cream can depend on factors like your skin’s sensitivity, whether you have existing skin conditions, and even how you apply the cream.
To minimize discomfort, try applying a thinner layer of cream. Applying the cream to slightly damp skin can also help. And definitely avoid putting it on broken or inflamed skin.
Serious side effects and allergic reactions
Urea 40 cream is generally safe, but it can cause serious side effects, including allergic reactions.
Identifying serious reactions
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Rash, hives, or itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Intense redness
- Blistering
- Peeling
When to seek medical attention
Report any side effect that doesn’t improve or gets worse to your doctor. Also, seek medical help right away if you develop signs of infection, such as pus, increased pain, or fever.
Reporting side effects
It’s important to report side effects to your healthcare provider and to the FDA. You can report side effects to the FDA online.
Precautions and warnings
Urea cream is safe and effective for most people when used as directed. However, keep the following warnings in mind.
Contraindications
Don’t use urea cream:
- On open wounds, burns, or areas that are swollen
- If you have allergies to urea or any of the other ingredients in the product
Special populations
- The FDA assigns urea cream to pregnancy category C, which means that animal studies show potential risk to the fetus, but there aren’t adequate studies in humans. Talk with your doctor before using urea cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- The safety and effectiveness of urea cream haven’t been definitively established for children. Check with your pediatrician before using this product on a child.
Interactions with other medications
Be careful if you’re using other topical products at the same time as urea cream.
Urea cream is generally considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to let your healthcare providers know about all the medications you’re using, including over-the-counter products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of urea cream?
While generally safe, urea cream can sometimes cause side effects like mild burning, stinging, itching, or irritation, especially upon initial application. Some people might experience redness or even a rash. It’s also important to note that urea cream can sometimes interact with other topical medications, so it’s best to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using it in combination with other treatments.
Is 40% urea cream safe?
40% urea cream is generally considered safe for most adults when used as directed. However, it’s a higher concentration, so it’s more likely to cause skin irritation compared to lower concentrations. It’s crucial to start with a small amount and monitor your skin’s reaction. People with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions should exercise extra caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using it.
What are the negative effects of urea?
The most common negative effects of urea are localized skin reactions. These can include burning, stinging, itching, redness, and, in rare cases, a rash. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. If you experience severe or persistent irritation, discontinue use and seek medical advice. Long-term use, especially at high concentrations, may potentially lead to skin thinning or dryness in some individuals.
Who should not use urea?
Individuals with known allergies to urea or any of the other ingredients in the cream should avoid using it. Also, urea cream should not be applied to broken or infected skin. If you have very sensitive skin, eczema, or other underlying skin conditions, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor before using urea cream. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult with their healthcare provider to ensure its safety.
In Closing
Urea 40% cream is generally well-tolerated, and most side effects are mild and don’t last long. More serious side effects are rare, but you should seek medical help right away if you experience any of them.
If you have any questions or concerns about using urea 40% cream, talk with your doctor or other healthcare provider. You should also report any side effects you experience to your doctor and to the FDA to help them monitor the safety of this product.