This Urea is a moisture-attracting substance (humectant) at low dosages (3-5%), that can be added to homemade skincare products such as serums and creams to make them more hydrating. It occurs naturally in urine and sweat. The powder itself does not smell like this.

Allantoin is a more highly concentrated alternative to Urea - 0.2% allantoin equals 10% urea.

It is soluble in water, and most stable at a pH of 6.2. At a lower pH it decomposes into ammonium cyanate and then to ammonium and CO2. This reaction is accelerated when heated. Urea must therefore be added in the cooling phase.

Interesting fact: urea is the first substance ever (1828) to be synthesized in a lab.