The Science Behind Urea and Hyaluronic Acid Synergy

At Vienna Skincare, every formulation begins with science — not trends. It’s this scientific approach that led us to one of the most remarkable synergies in dermatology: the interaction between urea and hyaluronic acid (HA) — two molecules that, together, deliver profound, lasting hydration while strengthening the skin barrier.

Urea and HA share a unique compatibility. While urea attracts and binds moisture, hyaluronic acid locks it in at different depths of the skin. The result is a complexion that feels hydrated, balanced, and more resilient from within.

How Urea Works

Urea is a natural humectant, a molecule that attracts and binds water within the skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum. It helps the skin maintain its ideal moisture balance and enhances the integrity of the barrier that protects against dryness and irritation.

But urea’s role goes further. It influences how keratinocytes (the main skin cells) behave, stimulating the production of essential lipids that fortify the skin’s structure and improve resilience. In other words, urea not only hydrates — it teaches the skin how to stay hydrated and maintain a strong skin barrier.

Urea: The Conductor for Active Ingredients

In advanced skincare science, urea acts as a biological conductor, a facilitator that helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively.

By subtly modifying the intercellular lipids (the natural fats that form the skin’s protective matrix), urea temporarily increases permeability in the stratum corneum.
This process creates micro-pathways that allow actives like low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid to reach deeper layers of the epidermis, where they can be most effective.

The Role of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is famous for its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, but not all HA molecules behave the same way.

• High-molecular-weight HA remains on the surface, providing an immediate smoothing and plumping effect.
• Low-molecular-weight HA, with the help of urea, penetrates deeper into the skin, reinforcing hydration and improving density from within.

This dual-level action ensures both instant comfort and long-term rejuvenation.

In Perfect Harmony

Think of urea not as an electrical conductor, but as a biological facilitator — it transforms the skin environment to become more receptive.
By binding water, softening lipids, and opening the way for hyaluronic acid, urea enables deep, sustained hydration and visibly healthier skin texture.

This synergy represents the foundation of Vienna Skincare’s philosophy: science-driven formulations that respect the skin’s biology while enhancing its natural function.

FAQ