Urea has several benefits to the skin. It boosts skin moisturization by increasing water retention. Therefore, it is often used in patients with significant xerosis, or dry skin. It also increases skin barrier function and antimicrobial defense. It has keratolytic properties that can be helpful for breaking down keratin in patients with conditions such as psoriasis, ichthyosis, or those with calluses on feet. It can promote increased drug penetration and can be combined with topical antifungals for treating onychomycosis. High strength urea can be used to chemically avulse nails.