Hydroxyethyl Urea
Humectant
INCI: Hydroxyethyl Urea · CAS 1320-51-0 · EINECS 215-304-0 · C3H8N2O2 · MW 104.11 · Water Soluble · Liquid
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Hydroxyethyl Urea is a highly effective humectant synthesized from urea and ethylene oxide. It delivers glycerin-equivalent moisturization with a distinctly superior skin feel — non-sticky, non-tacky, and lightweight — making it the preferred choice for formulators who want serious hydration without sacrificing sensory elegance.
Unlike traditional urea which can be irritating at higher concentrations and requires pH buffering to prevent degradation, Hydroxyethyl Urea is non-irritating across a wide pH range (4–9), stable in formulation, and compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients.
| INCI Name | CAS | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroxyethyl Urea | 1320-51-0 | Humectant, moisturizer, skin conditioner |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless, odorless, transparent liquid |
| Molecular formula | C3H8N2O2 |
| Molecular weight | 104.11 |
| pH (10% aqueous solution) | 6.0–10.0 |
| Conductivity (10% aq) | <150 μS/cm |
| Residual urea | <1% |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Storage | Room temperature, sealed, away from light |
| Shelf life | 2 years from date of manufacture |
| Application | Usage Rate |
|---|---|
| Facial moisturizers, serums, and essences | 2–5% |
| Body lotions and creams | 3–8% |
| Shampoos and conditioners | 2–5% |
| Sheet masks and rinse-off masks | 3–8% |
| Sensitive skin formulations | 2–5% |
| General use range | 2–10% |
- Add to the water phase of emulsions — hot or cold processable
- Non-irritating even at higher concentrations — unlike traditional urea which can cause stinging above 10%
- Stable across a wide pH range (4–9) — no buffering system required unlike traditional urea
- Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients including anionic, cationic, and nonionic systems
- Excellent in sheet masks — quickly replenishes moisture and enhances skin's hydrated appearance
- Combine with glycerin, sodium PCA, or hyaluronic acid for a layered NMF-mimicking humectant system
- Store sealed at room temperature away from light
- Intended use: Our products are provided for the exclusive purpose of creating external cosmetic and personal care formulations. They are not intended for internal use.
- Creator's liability: INCI VAULT is a supplier of ingredients and is not responsible for the final products you create. The responsibility for ensuring product safety, stability, and regulatory compliance rests entirely with you. This includes conducting thorough testing of all formulas.
- Professional guidance: If you do not have an advanced background in cosmetic science, we advise seeking the guidance of a professional formulator or chemist.
- FDA statement: The information and statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Need a larger quantity? Reach out — support@inci-vault.com
Hydroxyethyl Urea (INCI: Hydroxyethyl Urea · CAS 1320-51-0) is a non-irritating liquid humectant that delivers glycerin-equivalent moisturization with a non-sticky, non-tacky skin feel. Stable across pH 4–9 with no buffering required. Use level 2–10% in skin care, hair care, and mask formulations.
- Facial moisturizers, serums, and essences — 2–5% for lightweight hydration without stickiness
- Body lotions and creams — 3–8% for long-lasting moisture and improved skin texture
- Shampoos and conditioners — 2–5% to improve hair moisture, reduce dryness and split ends
- Sheet masks and rinse-off masks — 3–8% for rapid moisture replenishment
- Sensitive skin and eczema formulations — non-irritating across all concentrations
- Add to water phase — hot or cold processable
- Compatible with anionic, cationic, and nonionic systems — broad formulation compatibility
| What is Hydroxyethyl Urea used for?A humectant for skin care, hair care, and mask formulations. Delivers glycerin-equivalent moisturization with a non-sticky, non-tacky skin feel. Used in facial moisturizers, serums, body lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and sheet masks. |
| How is it different from regular urea?Regular urea can be irritating at higher concentrations and requires pH buffering to prevent ammonia degradation. Hydroxyethyl Urea is non-irritating, stable across pH 4–9 with no buffering required, and leaves a lighter, non-tacky feel. |
| Is it a liquid or powder?Liquid — a colorless, odorless, transparent liquid. Add to the water phase of your formulation. |
| What is the recommended usage rate?2–10% in the finished formulation. Facial moisturizers and serums: 2–5%. Body lotions, masks, and hair care: 3–8%. |
| Is it safe for sensitive skin?Yes — non-irritating and gentle, suitable for sensitive skin, eczema-prone skin, and baby care. CIR panel concluded it to be safe in cosmetics in present practices of use and concentration. |
| How should it be stored?Room temperature, sealed, away from light. Shelf life 2 years. |
Note: Hydroxyethyl Urea pairs exceptionally well with INCI VAULT's Propanediol for a layered, non-tacky humectant system in serums and essences.
