Which of the following is NOT a property of urea?

Urea is a well-known compound in the field of esthetics due to its unique properties that benefit the skin. It plays a significant role in various cosmetic formulations for its abilities. One of its key characteristics is its effectiveness in hydrating the skin; it draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration levels, making it a popular ingredient in moisturizers. Urea is also known to exfoliate dead skin cells gently, aiding in the process of skin renewal without causing irritation.

While urea does have some role in promoting certain aspects of skin health, it does not function as a sunscreen. Sunscreens are designed specifically to protect the skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation, often containing ingredients that have photoprotective properties. Urea lacks these protective abilities, which is why it is not classified as a sunscreen. Instead, its primary roles focus on hydration and mild exfoliation, thereby aiding in skin care but not providing the necessary protection against UV rays.