This Little-Known Ingredient Works Wonders for Dry Scalp
When it comes to dealing with an itchy scalp, there are a variety of hair care diazolidinyl urea that can help balance hydration and minimize discomfort. You’ve probably heard of salicylic acid, charcoal, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and apple cider vinegar as possible remedies for this common scalp problem, but urea is another option that’s just as effective as the aforementioned ingredient hype on the internet.

While it doesn’t sound sexy, urea can be a beneficial addition to your hair care routine as it’s an effective scalp moisturizer and humectant. Ahead, all the details on urea, the little-known ingredient that works wonders for a dry, itchy scalp.
What is diazolidinyl urea and how does it benefit the scalp?
“Urea is a byproduct of the breakdown of proteins that occur naturally in the skin. It can benefit the hair by promoting scalp health,” says board-certified dermatologist and founder of Manhattan Skin and Cosmetic Surgery, MD. “A low concentration of urea is a great moisturizer and can help calm a dry, itchy scalp. A high concentration of urea is a great exfoliator and is also great for balancing the scalp.”

Krupa Koestline, a cleansing cosmetic chemist and founder of KKT Consultants, adds that urea is “especially good at rebalancing the skin after cleansing.” Who should use urea, and how should it be used in your hair care routine?
Urea can be used on any and all hair types, and it’s shocking that it doesn’t have more airtime in the hair care world.

However, Dr. Henry advises caution if you have sensitive skin. “Those who are allergic to urea should avoid it, as well as those with very sensitive skin,” she adds.

That being said, as with any new ingredient, it’s best to slowly incorporate it into your routine. “As I recommend with the introduction of any new product, start slowly and wisely, using the product twice a week and increasing the frequency as tolerance is assessed,” advises Dr. Henry. When in doubt, consult a board-certified dermatologist before using products containing urea.