Urea cream vs ammonium lactate

What is the difference?

Texture depends on the whole formula, not just the active ingredient. Creams generally slow water loss more than lotions, so the word "cream" describes the vehicle, not a trophy for winning at moisture.1

Which should you choose?

For dry feet, neither ingredient has a clear claim to being best, so the moisturizer contest has no defensible crown. Choose by the area, amount of scaling and directions rather than assuming one ingredient always wins. For intact, dry heels, a cream containing 10% to 25% urea is one option; creams containing alpha hydroxy acids are another.156

For excessively dry skin, the right concentration and combination of ingredients matter. A dermatologist can select a moisturizer containing urea or lactic acid, and some people need a prescription moisturizer. If eczema, psoriasis or another condition is driving the dryness, moisturizing is only part of treating the cause. Urea can increase penetration of other substances, including topical corticosteroids, so check its use with the clinician managing that treatment.47

How do you use them?

1. 1Check the skin before applying. Do not put urea on cracked, bleeding, infected or oozing areas, or areas with severe widespread redness.
2. 2Use the directions for your exact product. For the IPG Pharmaceuticals ammonium lactate 12% cream, apply to dry skin twice daily or as directed by a doctor. Do not replace that instruction with general advice to apply moisturizer to damp skin.
3. 3For intact dry heels, general care includes short baths or showers lasting 5 to 10 minutes and a gentle cleanser without fragrance. Apply an appropriate heel moisturizer within 5 minutes of bathing, while skin is damp, unless its directions specify otherwise.
4. 4At bedtime, plain petroleum jelly is another part of heel care. Socks can keep the grease off bedding.

What should make you stop?

Both urea and lactic acid preparations can sting scratched, fissured or inflamed skin. Urea can also cause itching or a rash; seek medical advice if these symptoms persist and become bothersome. Stop the ammonium lactate cream and contact a doctor if irritation or a rash persists. Keep both away from the eyes; the ammonium lactate cream also warns against contact with lips and mucous membranes.134

With the ammonium lactate cream, avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use sunscreen. Do not use that cream on children under 2. Urea use in children depends on age, strength and whether a doctor has recommended it for a diagnosed dry skin condition.34

What improvement should you expect?

The aim is softer, better hydrated skin with less scaling. Urea treatment has improved dryness and scaling and reduced water loss through the skin. Regular use matters: apply a prescribed moisturizer as often as your treatment plan specifies. Severe heel dryness or cracks that do not improve with home care need a dermatologist's assessment.267