How to use Flexitol urea cream

What is Flexitol 10% cream for?

Flexitol 10% Urea Cream is used for dry, scaly skin. Urea attracts and holds water in the outer skin layer and softens the thick surface layer so it can shed more easily. That softening action is called keratolysis. Ten percent urea preparations are used for intensive treatment of very dry, thickened skin, including rough areas on the hands and feet.234

The goal is softer, more supple skin, not a dramatic peeling event staged for the bathroom mirror. Urea creams also reduce water loss, helping the skin retain moisture rather than simply wetting its surface.4

How to apply it

1. 1Wash your hands before applying the cream.
2. 2After washing or bathing, apply a thin film to the dry, rough area while the skin is still slightly damp. This is general urea application guidance.
3. 3Keep the cream away from your eyes, lips and other sensitive areas. Use it only externally.
4. 4Wash your hands afterwards, unless your hands are the area being treated.
5. 5Repeat at the frequency on your Flexitol pack or in your prescribed treatment plan. Do not add extra applications to make up for a missed one.

Use your label or prescription to decide how often to apply Flexitol, rather than borrowing a schedule from another urea cream. If you miss an application, apply it when you remember unless the next one is nearly due; then skip the missed application. Keep the container closed and out of children's reach.1

Should you keep using 10% urea indefinitely?

Ten percent urea can be a short course for thickened skin rather than the permanent default moisturizer. For maintenance, a standard emollient, meaning a moisturizer that softens dry skin, is often appropriate. If continued skin softening is needed, a 5% urea preparation is another option. If Flexitol was prescribed, discuss that change with your prescriber.2

Ongoing care also means addressing the cause of persistent dryness. If eczema, psoriasis or another condition is responsible, moisturizer alone does not replace treatment for that condition. A moisturizer has a job, but it is not the entire dermatology department. Contact your clinician if symptoms do not improve.15

Where should you avoid applying it?

Do not apply urea cream to broken, cracked or bleeding skin, infected or oozing areas, or skin with severe widespread redness. Dry, thickened skin and an open crack need different handling. Be cautious about facial use, especially near the eyes and lips. If cream gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical advice. Emollients also carry a fire risk, which needs consideration during use.24

Ask your pharmacist or clinician before combining urea with prescription creams on the same area: urea can increase the penetration of substances such as corticosteroids. Discuss use during pregnancy or breastfeeding with your care team. For children, confirm the exact product and strength with a clinician rather than applying adult directions.14

What if the cream stings?

Urea preparations can cause mild stinging, itching or a rash. Persistent or bothersome irritation needs medical advice. Stop applying the cream and seek prompt advice for burning, crusting, peeling or a suspected allergic reaction. Seek urgent help for swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.14