From the FDA Drug Label
Indications and Usage For debridement and promotion of normal healing of hyperkeratotic surface lesions, particularly where healing is retarded by local infection, necrotic tissue, fibrinous or purulent debris or eschar. Urea is useful for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions such as dry, rough skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, xerosis, ichthyosis, eczema, keratosis pilaris, keratosis palmaris, keratoderma, corns and calluses, as well as damaged, ingrown and devitalized nails.
Treatment options for Keratosis Pilaris include:
- Urea (TOP) for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions, specifically keratosis pilaris 1 Key points:
- Urea is useful for treating dry, rough skin and other hyperkeratotic conditions.
From the Research
Keratosis pilaris can be effectively treated with a combination of moisturizers, exfoliants, and topical medications, with topical lactic acid being the most commonly used first-line therapy, as reported by 43.63% of survey respondents 2. The treatment of keratosis pilaris involves a multi-faceted approach, including:
- Daily use of gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers containing urea, lactic acid, or ammonium lactate to hydrate and gently exfoliate the skin 3
- Targeted exfoliation with products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid (5-10%) or salicylic acid (2%) 2-3 times weekly 4
- Prescription retinoids like tretinoin 0.025-0.05% cream for more persistent cases, promoting cell turnover 5
- Avoiding hot showers, harsh soaps, and vigorous scrubbing, which can worsen the condition 5 It is essential to maintain consistent treatment, as keratosis pilaris is a chronic condition that tends to improve with ongoing care 2. Some key points to consider:
- Topical lactic acid is a commonly used and effective treatment for keratosis pilaris, with 43.63% of survey respondents reporting its use as a first-line therapy 2
- Laser therapy, although effective, is only utilized by 8.76% of survey respondents due to limitations such as lack of insurance coverage and proper equipment 2
- Recurrence of keratosis pilaris lesions is common, with over 60% of respondents reporting recurrence within three months of stopping treatment 2 Overall, a comprehensive treatment plan incorporating moisturizers, exfoliants, and topical medications, along with lifestyle modifications, can help manage keratosis pilaris and improve patient outcomes, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 2.