Products Description

Hydroxyethyl Urea is a small‑molecule urea derivative with a hydrophilic structure containing one hydroxyl group and two amide groups. It acts as a high‑efficiency humectant and skin/hair conditioning agent via multiple physical and physiological mechanisms.
Hydration Mechanism
- Hygroscopic Binding Hydroxyethyl Urea forms multiple hydrogen bonds with water molecules, enabling high hygroscopicity. At 36°C, 85% RH equilibrium, its hygroscopic capacity reaches 82% of its own weight, significantly higher than glycerin (≈34%).
- Stratum Corneum Penetration Low molecular weight allows rapid penetration into the stratum corneum, increasing intercellular water content, reducing TEWL, and relieving dryness, roughness, and scaling.
- Skin Barrier Support Promotes hydration of keratin and supports the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) network, improving elasticity, smoothness, and long‑term barrier function.
- Formulation Function Reduces tackiness and improves spreadability without greasiness; stabilizes formulas and enhances sensory properties across leave‑on and rinse‑off systems.
- Stability & Compatibility Stable over a wide pH range (5.0–9.0); compatible with anionic, nonionic, amphoteric surfactants, humectants, and active ingredients.
Technical Specification
| Item | Standard | Test Result |
|---|---|---|
| INCI Name | Hydroxyethyl Urea | - |
| CAS No. | 1320-51-0 | - |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid | Conforms |
| Assay (as Hydroxyethyl Urea) | 48.0–52.0% | 50.2% |
| pH (10% aqueous solution, 25°C) | 6.0–8.5 | 7.2 |
| Conductivity (10% aq.) | <300 μS/cm | 218 μS/cm |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤10 ppm | <10 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤2 ppm | <2 ppm |
| Loss on Drying | - | - |
| Refractive Index | 1.410–1.430 | 1.421 |
Safety Profile
- Acute Oral Toxicity (rat): LD₅₀ >3473 mg/kg bw → practically non‑toxic.
- Acute Dermal Toxicity (rabbit): LD₅₀ >3473 mg/kg bw → low acute risk.
- Skin Irritation: Non‑irritating at cosmetic use concentrations (≤20%); in vitro EpiDerm model negative.
- Eye Irritation: Mild at high concentrations; well‑tolerated in finished formulations.
- Skin Sensitization: Non‑sensitizing in guinea pig maximization tests (GPMT).
- Genotoxicity: Ames test negative; no genotoxic potential reported.
- Carcinogenicity & Reproductive Toxicity: No evidence of carcinogenicity or reproductive/developmental toxicity.
- Regulatory Status:
CIR Expert Panel: safe up to 20.6% in leave‑on products when formulated non‑irritating.
Included in China IECIC (2021), EU CosIng, Australia NICNAS, and Japan NIFC lists.
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal cosmetic handling.
Supporting Safety Certificates
- MSDS (SDS)
- Batch COA (Certificate of Analysis)
- IECIC & EU CosIng Compliance Certificates
- Heavy Metals & Microbial Test Reports
- CIR Safety Assessment Summary
Applications
1. Leave‑On Skincare (Serums, Creams, Lotions)
- Use Level: 2%–10% (up to 20% for intensive dry‑skin repair)
- Allowed: All skin types including dry, sensitive, acne‑prone
- Restrictions: For external topical use only; avoid direct eye contact
2. Rinse‑Off Products (Body Wash, Shampoo, Facial Cleanser)
- Use Level: 1%–5%
- Allowed: Daily care, sensitive skin/scalp
- Restrictions: Rinse thoroughly; not for leave‑on
3. Color Cosmetics (Foundation, BB Cream, Concealer)
- Use Level: 0.5%–3%
- Allowed: Liquid, cream, and stick formulas
- Restrictions: Avoid mucous membranes; for external use only
4. Medical Skincare & Barrier Repair
- Use Level: 5%–15%
- Allowed: Dry, atopic‑prone, post‑procedure skin
- Restrictions: Not for open wounds; discontinue if irritation occurs
5. Hair Care (Conditioner, Hair Mask, Leave‑In Treatment)
- Use Level: 1%–8%
- Allowed: Dry, frizzy, color‑treated hair
- Restrictions: Avoid scalp contact in high concentrations
Why Choose Us
- Precise Concentration Control Strictly controlled at 48.0%–52.0%, consistent batch‑to‑batch stability for reliable formulation.
- Superior Humectant Mechanism Higher hygroscopicity than glycerin; fast‑penetrating, non‑sticky, long‑lasting hydration.
- Wide Compatibility & Stability Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients; stable across pH 5.0–9.0 for versatile formulation.
- Proven Safety & Compliance Full toxicology dossiers; CIR, EU, China, and global regulatory approvals.
- Stable Supply & Flexible Packaging 25 kg/drum; 7‑day lead time; air/sea/express shipping worldwide.
- Professional Technical Support Formulation guidance, stability testing, and regulatory document support.
Delivery & Shipping Service

Storage: Store in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated place.
Packaging: 1 kg/bag, 25 kg/drum
Delivery Time: 7 days after order placement
1.Express Delivery
3-5 days for shipments under 100 kg
Door-to-door service
2.Ocean Freight
Over 300 kg: Approximately 30 days. Port-to-port service requires a professional customs clearance agent.
3.Air Freight
100kg-1000kg, 5-7 days
Airport-to-airport service, requires a professional customs clearance agent

Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide free samples and technical documents?
-
Yes, free samples available; MSDS, COA, compliance certificates provided per batch.
What are storage and shelf life?
-
Store sealed in cool, dry place; shelf life 24 months unopened.
Is Hydroxyethyl Urea comedogenic?
-
No, it is non‑comedogenic and suitable for oily and acne‑prone skin.
Can it be used in baby care products?
-
Yes, at 1%–3% in fully tested rinse‑off formulations.
Is Hydroxyethyl Urea safe for eye area products?
-
Safe in formulated products at typical concentrations; avoid direct undiluted contact.

Send inquiry or contact us to get free sample, and learn more details about it.
Hot Tags: Hydroxyethyl Urea-Humectant, China Hydroxyethyl Urea-Humectant manufacturers, suppliers, factory, symplocos racemosa extract, energizing ingredients, stinging nettle root powder, chamomile extract for cosmetics, jojoba oil for cosmetics, silk cocoon amino acid skincare ingredient










