Lactic Acid vs Urea
Both target texture and hydration. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Lactic Acid | Urea | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Texture, dullness, hydration and pigmentation | Hydration, barrier and texture |
| Typical strength | 5% – 10% | 5% – 10% (face), up to 40% (feet) |
| Best time | PM | AM/PM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Dry, Normal And Sensitive | Dry, Normal And Sensitive |
| Pregnancy | Safe | Safe |
| Price in India | ₹400 – ₹1,500 | ₹300 – ₹1,200 |
The verdict
Both are similarly gentle. Choose based on your main goal: Lactic Acid for texture, dullness, hydration and pigmentation, Urea for hydration, barrier and texture.
Using both? Great combo Urea cushions Lactic Acid: it hydrates and supports the barrier while the active does its work. That means less irritation and better results. How to layer them →
Lactic Acid in short
A gentler AHA with a larger molecule. It exfoliates while also acting as a humectant, so it suits dry and sensitive skin that cannot tolerate glycolic acid.
Urea in short
A natural moisturising factor that pulls water into skin. At 10% and above it also softens rough, flaky patches. It is excellent for very dry skin, keratosis pilaris and cracked heels.
Not sure which fits your skin?
The routine builder picks actives for your skin type, concern and climate automatically.