Do you have dry, rough skin on your feet? Urea cream may be just what you need. Urea is a type of medication applied to the skin to soften and remove dead skin cells.
A strong concentration of urea, such as urea cream 40 percent for feet, is often used to treat tough skin conditions like calluses, corns, and cracked heels. If you’re dealing with these issues, a 40% urea cream might be the perfect solution to give you softer, healthier feet.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to use 40% urea cream effectively and safely, so you can get the best results and say goodbye to rough, uncomfortable feet.
How does urea work?
Urea is a chemical compound that’s naturally present in the body, and it shares some similarities with the active ingredient found in products like Kerasal. It’s a humectant, which means it can attract and hold onto water. That’s why urea is a common ingredient in moisturizers and other skincare products.
Urea can help dry skin become more supple and hydrated by increasing the amount of water held in the skin.
Keratolytic properties explained
Urea is also a keratolytic. That means it can break down keratin. Keratin is a protein that’s a major component of skin, hair, and nails.
A 40% urea cream can help shed dead skin cells by weakening the bonds that hold them together. As the urea cream dissolves these bonds, the dead skin cells become easier to remove.
Conditions that can be treated with 40% urea cream on feet
Calluses and Corns
Calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to rubbing or pressure, and some people find baking soda on feet overnight to be a simple remedy. Corns are similar to calluses, but they’re smaller and have a hard center. Both are ways your feet protect themselves.
Urea cream can help soften and remove calluses and corns. It gently dissolves the proteins that make up dead skin cells, making it easier to slough them off. It also hydrates the skin, which helps to soften the hardened areas.
Dry, Cracked Heels (Heel Fissures)
Dry, cracked heels can happen because you’re dehydrated, stand for long periods, or wear shoes that don’t fully cover the heel. They aren’t just unsightly; they can also be painful and even bleed.
Urea cream is a great way to moisturize and heal dry, cracked heels. It draws moisture into the skin and helps to repair the skin’s natural barrier function.
Other Foot Conditions
Sometimes, urea cream can help with other foot conditions, such as:
- psoriasis
- eczema
- ingrown toenails
If you have one of these conditions, or are concerned about potential complications like diabetes & nail loss, be sure to talk with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. They can help you create the best plan for your unique health profile.
How to use 40% urea cream for feet
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use 40% urea cream effectively:
- Preparation: Wash and dry your feet. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to wash your feet thoroughly. Make sure you dry them completely afterward, especially in between your toes.
- Application: Apply a thin layer. Apply a thin layer of the 40% urea cream to the affected areas of your feet. Gently massage the cream into the skin until it’s fully absorbed. Be sure to avoid applying the cream to any broken or irritated skin.
- Frequency and duration: Use the cream as directed. You can typically apply urea cream one to three times per day, or as directed by your doctor. How long you use the cream depends on how severe your foot condition is.
- Post-application care: Wear socks. After applying the cream, you might want to consider wearing socks. This can help the cream absorb better and keep it from rubbing off on your sheets or the floor.
Precautions, side effects, and contraindications
Like any medication, 40 percent urea cream can cause side effects or interact with other treatments. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Precautions
- Be careful not to get the cream in your eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas.
- Tell your doctor about any allergies you have or other medical conditions you’re being treated for.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor whether it’s safe for you to use urea cream.
Potential side effects
The most common side effects from urea cream are mild:
- burning
- itching
- stinging
- redness
- irritation
More rarely, people experience allergic reactions, such as:
- rash
- hives
- difficulty breathing
If you have side effects that are severe or don’t go away, stop using the cream and contact your doctor.
Contraindications
Don’t use urea cream if you have:
- open wounds or infected skin
- a known allergy to urea or any of the other ingredients in the cream
Storage and disposal
Store your urea cream at room temperature, and be sure to keep it away from heat and moisture. As with all medications, you should keep it where children and pets can’t get to it.
When you’re ready to throw away expired or unused cream, follow the disposal regulations in your local community to do so safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 40% urea cream be used on the face?
Generally, 40% urea cream is too strong for facial skin. It’s formulated for thick, calloused areas like feet. Using it on the face could lead to irritation, redness, or even damage. Lower concentrations are better suited for facial use.
What are the disadvantages of urea cream?
Potential disadvantages of urea cream include skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some people might also experience a mild odor. It’s important to start with a small amount and monitor your skin’s reaction.
What percentage of urea is best for feet?
For general foot dryness and mild calluses, a 10-20% urea cream might be sufficient. For thicker calluses, cracked heels, or stubborn dry patches, a 40% urea cream is often recommended. The best percentage depends on the severity of your foot condition.
What does urea cream do for your feet?
Urea cream acts as both a humectant and a keratolytic. As a humectant, it draws moisture into the skin. As a keratolytic, it helps to break down the protein (keratin) in the outer layer of skin, softening and loosening dry, scaly, or thickened skin on the feet.
What does urea 40% do to toenails?
A 40% urea cream can help soften thick, hardened toenails, making them easier to trim. It can also aid in treating fungal nail infections by helping antifungal medications penetrate the nail bed more effectively. It doesn’t cure the infection itself, but it creates a more favorable environment for treatment.
To Conclude
If you’re dealing with dry, cracked feet, calluses, or corns, a 40% urea cream might be just what you need. It’s effective at softening and removing dead skin, leaving your feet feeling smoother and healthier.
Remember, it’s important to follow the directions carefully and take the necessary precautions to avoid any irritation or side effects. If you have any concerns or underlying health conditions, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or a podiatrist for personalized advice and treatment options. They can help you determine if a 40% urea cream is right for you and how to use it safely and effectively.