Richenic Cream Urea 5%
Richenic Cream Urea 5%
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-trusted intensive moisturizing cream featuring 5% Urea to soften rough, dry skin while patented MLE technology with Ceramide-9S and Defensamide strengthen the skin barrier. Trusted by over 4,000 hospitals and clinics in Korea for severe dryness and compromised skin conditions.
5% Urea for Intense Hydration
Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) that binds moisture to the skin while gently softening accumulated dead skin cells for smoother texture.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5% Urea for Intense Hydration
Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) that binds moisture to the skin while gently softening accumulated dead skin cells for smoother texture.
Patented MLE Technology
Multi Lamellar Emulsion with Ceramide-9S mimics skin's natural barrier structure to reinforce and strengthen compromised skin.
Defensamide Protection
Patented ingredient that stimulates antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production and enhances the skin's natural defense system.
Centella Asiatica Complex
Includes Madecassoside for soothing, calming irritated skin and promoting skin healing without causing sensitivity.
Safety & compatibility
SAFELimited human studies on topical urea during pregnancy. Some healthcare providers advise caution. Consult your doctor before use. No retinoids, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-unsafe ingredients present.
Contains stearic acid, glyceryl stearate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetearyl alcohol, and sorbitan stearate which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne.
Hypoallergenic tested by US AMA. Free from fragrances, dyes, ethanol, parabens, and other common irritants. Suitable for atopic and easily irritated skin.
Low comedogenic rating of 1/5. Silicone elastomers create a breathable protective layer without clogging pores.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSUrea 5%Proven
A Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) that comprises about 7% of your skin's natural hydrating compounds. At 5%, urea acts as a powerful humectant while providing mild keratolytic action to soften rough skin.
- Clinical Evidence: Multiple studies show 5% urea significantly improves skin hydration immediately and up to 48 hours after application.
- Mechanism: Attracts water to the stratum corneum, breaks down filaggrin to release amino acids, and enhances antimicrobial peptide expression.
- Benefits: Moisturizes, softens dead skin cells, improves skin barrier function, and is considered the gold standard for xerosis treatment.
MLE with Ceramide-9SPatented
Neopharm's internationally patented Multi Lamellar Emulsion technology that recreates a three-dimensional structure similar to human skin lipids to reinforce the skin barrier.
- Technology: Creates a biomimetic lamellar structure identical to the skin's natural lipid barrier.
- Ceramide-9S: Delivers bio-mimetic ceramides that integrate into the skin barrier for deeper, longer-lasting hydration.
- Clinical Use: Trusted by over 4,000 hospitals and clinics in Korea for treating compromised skin conditions.
Defensamide (Methyl Caprooyl Tyrosinate)Patented
Neopharm's patented ingredient that helps activate the skin's natural defense system by stimulating antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production.
- Function: Suppresses harmful bacteria like S. aureus while supporting beneficial skin flora.
- Benefit: Improves and reinforces skin barrier function and the skin's self-defense system.
Centella Asiatica ComplexProven
Contains both Centella Asiatica Extract and purified Madecassoside for powerful soothing and healing benefits.
- Madecassoside: Pure active compound known for calming inflammation and supporting wound healing.
- Synergy: Works with other soothing ingredients (Bisabolol, Allantoin) to reduce irritation and redness.
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4Promising
A signal peptide that may help stimulate collagen synthesis for improved skin firmness and texture over time.
- Function: Supports skin conditioning and may enhance overall formula effectiveness.
- Concentration: Present in supporting amounts to complement primary actives.
29 ingredients
Water/Aqua, Cyclopentasiloxane, Urea (5%), Caprylyl Methicone, Propanediol, Panthenol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Myristoyl/Palmitoyl Oxostearamide/Arachamide MEA, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cocoglycerides, Viscum Album (Mistletoe) Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Sorbitan Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Phytosterols, Stearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Methyl Caprooyl Tyrosinate (Defensamide), Bisabolol, Allantoin, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tropolone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary moisturizer. For extremely dry skin, layer with Zeroid Intensive Cream on top to lock in moisture.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
After cleansing and applying any toners or essences, ensure skin is slightly damp for optimal absorption.
Dispense Product
Take a pea to nickel-sized amount. A little goes a long way due to the rich formula.
Apply Evenly
Gently massage into face and neck using upward, outward motions. Focus on dry, rough patches.
Reapply as Needed
Can be applied multiple times daily to areas needing intensive moisture. Also works on body for cracked heels and elbows.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have severely dry, cracked, or rough skin
- Your skin barrier is compromised or damaged
- You experience flaking, scaling, or persistent dryness
- You have atopic dermatitis or eczema-prone skin
- You need a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer
- You want hospital-grade skincare for sensitive skin
- You're looking for a steroid-free solution for dry skin conditions
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, watery textures
- You have very oily skin in warm climates
- You're looking for anti-aging as primary benefit
- You need a fungal acne-safe urea cream (try Malezia instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cream was designed specifically for severely dry skin. The 5% urea provides intense hydration while MLE technology locks in moisture all day.
Hypoallergenic tested, fragrance-free formula. Trusted by dermatologists for atopic and reactive skin. Defensamide helps calm and protect.
Works well on dry areas. May feel slightly rich for oily T-zone in summer. Consider using on dry zones only or as night cream.
Rich texture may feel heavy for oily skin types in humid weather. Better suited for dehydrated-oily skin or winter use only.
Non-comedogenic formula unlikely to cause breakouts. However, NOT safe for fungal acne due to fatty acid content. Patch test first.
Perfect for age-related dryness. Urea improves texture, peptides support firmness, and the rich formula addresses moisture loss.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Relief
Skin feels immediately soothed and moisturized. Protective membrane forms on skin surface. Tightness and discomfort reduced.
95% noticed immediate reliefImproved Texture & Softness
Urea's mild keratolytic action begins softening rough patches. Dead skin cells are gently sloughed away. Flaking significantly reduced.
85% saw texture improvementStronger Skin Barrier
MLE technology and Defensamide have rebuilt compromised barrier. Skin retains moisture better and feels more resilient against environmental stressors.
80% reported reduced sensitivityTransformed Skin Health
Chronic dryness conditions show significant improvement. Skin appears smoother, healthier, and better able to maintain hydration independently.
75% achieved long-term improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Intensely hydrating for severely dry skin
- Hospital-grade, dermatologist-trusted formula
- Patented MLE technology actually works
- Completely fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- 5% urea concentration perfect for face
- Absorbs well despite rich texture
- Great for eczema, atopic skin, and barrier repair
- Multi-purpose: works on body, heels, and hands too
- Free from common irritants and steroids
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe
- May feel too heavy for oily skin in summer
- Small tube size (50ml) for the price
- Not widely available in physical stores
- May need layering for extreme dryness
- Urea may cause slight tingling on very damaged skin initially
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar 5% urea concentration with ceramides and NMF. German pharmacy formula. Also fragrance-free. Lacks the patented MLE and Defensamide technology but excellent value.
Same 5% urea concentration in a fungal acne-safe formula. Lighter gel-cream texture. Better for oily/acne-prone skin. Lacks ceramides and barrier-repair focus.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid but no urea. MVE technology for time-release. Less targeted for severe dryness but excellent everyday moisturizer at lower price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap for hygienic dispensing
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. While urea is a naturally occurring compound in skin and the formula contains no retinoids or known pregnancy-unsafe ingredients, there is limited human research on topical urea during pregnancy. Some healthcare providers advise avoiding it as a precaution. We recommend consulting with your doctor or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including stearic acid, glyceryl stearate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetearyl alcohol, and sorbitan stearate. If you have fungal acne, consider Malezia 5% Urea Moisturizer instead, which is specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe.
Yes, this cream can be used with other actives. Since 5% urea provides mild keratolytic action, you may want to introduce it gradually when using with exfoliating acids. Apply actives first on clean skin, wait for absorption, then apply Richenic Cream to seal in moisture and buffer any irritation. The cream's barrier-repairing properties can actually help support skin while using retinol or acids.
This cream is ideal for dry to very dry skin, sensitive skin, compromised skin barriers, atopic dermatitis, and mature skin experiencing dryness. It's also excellent for anyone dealing with flaking, rough texture, or chronically dehydrated skin. Oily skin types may find it too rich for summer use but can benefit from it as a winter moisturizer or night cream.
You'll feel immediate relief and hydration upon first application. Within 1-2 weeks, rough patches should soften noticeably as the 5% urea works on dead skin cells. By 3-4 weeks, the MLE technology and Defensamide should help rebuild your skin barrier, and by 6-8 weeks, you should see significant long-term improvement in overall skin health and moisture retention.
Apply as your moisturizing step after cleansing, toning, and any essences or serums. For AM routine, follow with sunscreen. For PM routine, you can apply an occlusive layer on top if needed for extreme dryness. This cream can also be used as a spot treatment on dry patches throughout the day or applied to body areas like heels, elbows, and hands.
No, this cream has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is considered non-comedogenic. The silicone elastomers create a breathable protective layer that doesn't clog pores. However, everyone's skin is different, and we always recommend patch testing any new product before full application, especially if you're acne-prone.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. The squeeze tube packaging helps minimize contamination and air exposure. Watch for any changes in texture, color, or smell as signs of expiration.
Verdict: Zeroid Richenic Cream Urea 5% is a top-tier choice for anyone struggling with severely dry, compromised, or sensitive skin. The combination of clinically-proven 5% urea with Neopharm's patented MLE and Defensamide technologies delivers hospital-grade hydration and barrier repair in an elegant, fragrance-free formula. Trusted by over 4,000 Korean clinics, it lives up to its dermatological pedigree. The only drawbacks are the smaller tube size for the price point and the fact it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. If you have dry or sensitive skin that hasn't responded to regular moisturizers, this is worth the investment.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Buffering
|
Hydrating
Texture
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Methicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 0 |
Myristoyl/Palmitoyl Oxostearamide/Arachamide Mea
Skin Conditioning
|
|





