<p>Topical urea is bacteriostatic, bactericidal, fungistatic, proteolytic, hygroscopic and has mild local anesthetic properties. These actions are dose-dependent. Most of its therapeutic application depends on its hygroscopic properties. The hygroscopic property is due to its ability to cause a configurational change in proteins in the stratum corneum. Urea gently dissolves the intracellular matrix which results in loosening the horny layer of skin and shedding scaly skin at regular intervals, thereby softening hyperkeratotic areas. Therapeutic effects depend on local concentrations, not on systemic absorption of the drug. If absorbed, urea would be excreted unchanged in the urine.</p>