A cream which contains urea, promotes the healing of certain skin conditions. Many people have benefited from using urea cream for feet. This story provides information regarding the same.
Rajib Singha
Among all the parts of the body that are subjected to constant pressure and friction throughout the day, the feet bear most of the brunt. This causes the layer of the foot skin to become thick and hard, resulting in a condition known as foot callus. This condition occurs since the feet are constantly exposed to pressure.
Areas such as the ball of the foot, the heel, and the big toe are the ones which get callused. These very calluses worsen the problem further since they do not sweat, thereby making the skin of the feet more dry. Therefore, a topical cream containing urea may help break the calluses, and thereby reduce the dryness and cracking of the feet.
What is Urea Cream Used For?
Urea cream is basically used for treating calluses, dry skin, and foot corns. Also, it is recommended for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions.
As the name suggests, this cream contains urea, which is synthesized in the laboratory. Urea is known to be a debriding agent; meaning it helps get rid of the dead, damaged, or infected tissues in the feet.
So, once the cream is applied to the callused feet, urea binds with the keratin (defined as a fibrous scleroprotein that occurs in the outer layer of the skin), to break it down.
Thus it helps loosen the hard and scaly skin. Also, since urea has a high adherence towards water, the cream draws moisture into the feet, thereby making the skin soft, and healing the cracks and fissures.
Possible Side Effects
The side effects may or may not be experienced by the users. If any side effects do occur, then they are usually mild and easily tolerable. The common ones, as observed by users and doctors include:
Skin irritation in the form of itchiness, burning, or stinging
Swelling, reddening, or developing a rash
Apart from these, if any severe allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, or persistent irritation are observed, then seek medical help immediately.
Precautions/Considerations
There are a few safety instructions that need to be followed while using the urea cream. It is important to remember that the cream is only recommended for external use, and therefore its contact with the eyes, mouth, or nose should be avoided. If by any chance it gets into your eyes, then rinse them immediately with running water.
If you notice that the skin of the feet is severely cracked, then you should consult a doctor before using the cream. Followin your doctor's instructions carefully regarding the usage of the cream. If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, then consult your gynecologist before using this product.
You may avail a 40 urea cream (contains 40% urea), or a 20 urea cream (20% urea), depending upon the severity of your foot callus, or any other problems of the feet.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.