Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Urea vegan?
Also known as: Carbamide
Vegan
Suitable for a vegan diet.
Yes — Despite the name, commercial urea is not extracted from human or animal urine.
01 · The basics
What is Urea?
A highly effective humectant and mild exfoliant used in skincare to treat severely dry, rough, or callused skin.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
Despite the name, commercial urea is not extracted from human or animal urine. It is manufactured synthetically from ammonia and carbon dioxide.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
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Frequently asked
FAQ
Is the urea in my foot cream from horse urine?
No, this is a very common myth. The urea used in cosmetics and medicine is 100% synthetically produced and completely vegan.
Is urea cruelty-free?
The ingredient itself is vegan and synthetic, but you should always check if the final brand tests on animals.
Commonly found in
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