Urea is primarily used in three major sectors—agricultural fertilization, medical skincare, and industrial manufacturing; it is the nitrogen-richest chemical fertilizer and can also soften hardened skin.

Urea serves as a "nutritious meal" for crops; with a nitrogen content as high as 46%, it promotes leaf growth and protein synthesis in plants like rice and wheat. It is the nitrogen fertilizer most commonly used by farmers, though it must be buried deep in the soil during application to prevent loss through volatilization.

Dermatologists commonly use it to moisturize and soften hardened skin; applying urea ointment can alleviate dryness and scaling associated with conditions like ichthyosis and cracked hands or feet. Hospitals also use urea-containing capsules for breath tests to detect *Helicobacter pylori* infections. Additionally, it helps other topical medications penetrate the skin more effectively.

Dermatologists commonly use it to moisturize and soften hardened skin; applying urea ointment can alleviate dryness and scaling associated with conditions like ichthyosis and cracked hands or feet. Hospitals also use urea-containing capsules for breath tests to detect *Helicobacter pylori* infections. Additionally, it helps other topical medications penetrate the skin more effectively.