My hands are cracked and sore — will this cream sting? — Cream for Very Dry and Chapped Hands with Urea, 75 ml - Derma Intensive +

It can. Urea is generally well tolerated, but on open fissures or very sensitive, broken skin it may cause a stinging or burning sensation. The product information specifically advises applying gently and observing how the skin feels if it is deeply cracked or very sensitive, so this is a known consideration rather than an unexpected reaction.

If your hands are cracked, start cautiously. Apply a small amount to one area, avoid rubbing it directly into open cracks, and wait a few minutes to see how it feels before using it on the whole hand. Some people find any stinging is brief and fades as the skin becomes less dry, but this varies from person to person. If the stinging is strong or does not settle, stop using the cream and let the skin calm down before trying again — or choose a product without urea.

The cream is fragranced, so if your skin tends to react to fragranced cosmetics, do a patch test on a small area such as the inner forearm before the first full use. Keep the cream away from the eye area. If you have a chronic skin condition or are unsure whether this product is suitable for you, consult a specialist before use.