Ingredient review
M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea
INCI: M-DIMETHYLAMINOPHENYL UREA
A synthetic film-former that helps products spread evenly and feel smooth, but with limited published safety data.
In plain English
M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea is a man-made ingredient that helps create a thin, even film on your skin or hair. In makeup, it can improve how the product glides on and helps it stay in place. It's not a moisturizer or active treatment—it's more of a texture helper. Because it's not widely studied in consumer products, its long-term effects are less understood compared to more common ingredients.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Useful in the right context, but not low-maintenance
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Read the cautions before using
M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A synthetic urea derivative used as a film-forming agent and viscosity modifier in cosmetics. It is not related to urea moisturizers.
How it works
When applied, it forms a flexible, invisible film on the skin or hair surface. This film can help other ingredients adhere better, improve water resistance, and give a smooth, even finish.
Pros
Improves wear time
Helps makeup and sunscreen resist smudging and fading throughout the day, so you need fewer touch-ups.
Enhances texture
Creates a silky, even feel on skin, making products easier to blend and more comfortable to wear.
Cons and cautions
Limited safety research
There is very little published research on this specific ingredient in cosmetic use, so its long-term safety profile is not well established.
Not a treatment ingredient
It does not moisturize, soothe, or provide active skincare benefits—it's purely a texture and performance enhancer.
Best for
- People looking for long-wear makeup or sunscreen
- Those who prefer a smooth, non-greasy finish
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to synthetic film-formers
- Those seeking purely natural or plant-based formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Based on limited available data, M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea appears to have low irritation and comedogenic potential at typical use levels. However, the lack of comprehensive safety studies means caution is warranted, especially for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
There are very few peer-reviewed studies on this specific ingredient in cosmetic formulations. Most safety information comes from manufacturer data and general knowledge of similar film-forming urea derivatives.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at low concentrations, often under 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU and US, but not specifically reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel as of 2025.
- Common uses
- Foundations, Concealers, Sunscreens, Hair styling products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its biodegradability and environmental persistence are not well documented. Choosing products with transparent sustainability data is advisable.
Good to know
- This ingredient is not related to urea used in moisturizers—it's a completely different chemical structure.
- It is most commonly found in long-wear and water-resistant formulas.
Common questions
What is M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea in beauty products?
M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea is a man-made ingredient that helps create a thin, even film on your skin or hair. In makeup, it can improve how the product glides on and helps it stay in place. It's not a moisturizer or active treatment—it's more of a texture helper. Because it's not widely studied in consumer products, its long-term effects are less understood compared to more common ingredients.
What does M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea do in a beauty product?
When applied, it forms a flexible, invisible film on the skin or hair surface. This film can help other ingredients adhere better, improve water resistance, and give a smooth, even finish.
Is M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea safe for most people?
Based on limited available data, M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea appears to have low irritation and comedogenic potential at typical use levels. However, the lack of comprehensive safety studies means caution is warranted, especially for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with M-Dimethylaminophenyl Urea?
Individuals with known sensitivity to synthetic film-formers Those seeking purely natural or plant-based formulations
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.