42% Urea Cream with 2% Salicylic Acid for Hands and Feet, 100g

42% urea cream for dry, rough skin

This 42% urea cream contains 2% salicylic acid and comes in a 100g jar. It is for rough skin on the hands and feet. Urea attracts water and softens the outer skin layer.

Apply it only to dry, rough, intact skin. It is not for the face. This jar contains 42% urea, compared with 40% urea creams.

Key facts

How 42% urea compares with other strengths

Urea strength gives a general guide to cosmetic use. Lower strengths mainly moisturise, while higher strengths soften thicker, rougher outer skin.

A review groups lower concentrations with moisturising and higher concentrations with softening the outer layer. The urea review gives more detail on the ingredient. This jar sits in the same high-strength class as a urea 40 cream and contains 42% urea.

What salicylic acid adds

Salicylic acid softens keratin, which can loosen dry scale on the outer skin. This cream contains salicylic acid at 2%, the GB cosmetic maximum for other products, including leave-on products. GB cosmetics rules prohibit it in preparations for children under 3, apart from shampoos. Do not use this cream on children under 3.

How to use

1. Before first use, try a small amount on a small area of intact skin and check for irritation.
2. Apply a thin layer to dry, rough areas of the feet or hands only.
3. Follow the directions on the pack.
4. Wash your hands after applying, unless you are applying the cream to your hands.
5. Keep it away from the eyes and face, and do not apply it to broken, bleeding, irritated or infected skin.
6. Stop using it if stinging persists or irritation develops.

Safety and when to ask first

If you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling in your feet, ask a GP, podiatrist or pharmacist for advice about hard skin. Read the NHS foot-care advice.

If you are sensitive to aspirin or salicylates, ask a pharmacist first. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, ask a pharmacist or doctor first. Avoid open fissures, bleeding or infected areas. Use only on dry, rough skin that remains intact.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose a urea cream for feet, and how does 42% compare with 40%?

Check the strength and choose a cream for the area and condition of your skin. Up to 10% is mainly used for moisturising. Creams at 30% and above are mainly used to soften thick, rough skin. This jar contains 42% urea, slightly more than a 40% cream.

What is urea cream used for on feet?

Urea attracts water and can soften the outer skin layer. Higher-strength urea creams are generally used cosmetically on thick, rough areas of the feet. This cream is for dry, rough, intact skin. Do not apply it to broken, bleeding or infected skin.

Can I use it on cracked-looking heels?

Only if the area is dry and rough and the skin is still intact. Do not apply it to open cracks, bleeding or infected skin. If a heel has an open area, or you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling in your feet, ask a health professional before using a strong cream.

Can I use 42% urea cream on my face?

No. This cream is intended for rough skin on the feet and hands, not facial use. Keep it away from your face and eyes. For facial dryness, choose a product whose directions specifically allow use on the face.

How often should I use this cream?

Follow the directions on the pack. Wash your hands after applying. Stop if stinging continues or irritation develops, and avoid the face, eyes, broken skin and infected areas.

Can I use it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Ask a pharmacist or doctor before using this cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Guidance on topical salicylic acid advises discussing its use with a doctor in these circumstances.

This is cosmetic product information, not medical advice. Patch test before use. Results vary.

Last reviewed: October 2026.