UREA

UREA [yoo-REE-uh]

What it is: An organic compound that has a superhydrating effect on skin cells. This emollient improves the appearance of dry, rough skin by hydrating and smoothing the epidermis while also sloughing away dead skin cells.
How to use it: Synthetically formulated and used in skincare products for its moisturizing and natural, gentle exfoliating properties. Urea is found in footcare products as it’s an anti-itch ingredient, so offers relief while, soothing and hydrating the skin.

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ALUMINUM OXIDE

ALUMINUM OXIDE [uh-loo-muh-nuhm aak-side]

What it is: A white abrasive used on files that can be less aggressive on the nail surface than the same grit of other materials.

(NB: In its crystalline phase, as the mineral corundum, varieties form the gem stones ruby & sapphire. Corundum is the most common naturally occurring crystalline form of aluminum oxide.) 

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