Product Description
Product overview
The iconic German moisturizer trusted for over 110 years. This rich, creamy formula with Eucerit and Provitamin B5 intensively moisturizes, nourishes, and protects dry skin from head to toe. A timeless skincare staple in the legendary blue tin.
Barrier Protection
Creates an occlusive layer that locks in moisture and shields skin from environmental stressors while preventing transepidermal water loss.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Protection
Creates an occlusive layer that locks in moisture and shields skin from environmental stressors while preventing transepidermal water loss.
Intensive Hydration
Glycerin and Panthenol work together to attract and bind moisture to the skin, providing deep, long-lasting hydration for even the driest skin.
Eucerit Technology
The patented lanolin-derived emulsifier that makes NIVEA Crème unique – creates the perfect stable water-in-oil emulsion since 1911.
Multi-Purpose Use
Versatile formula works as a face cream, hand cream, body moisturizer, overnight mask, cuticle treatment, and even a makeup primer.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Beiersdorf confirms all NIVEA products are evaluated for safety during pregnancy.
Contains Petrolatum, Decyl Oleate, and Lanolin Alcohol which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.
Formula includes Limonene, Geraniol, Linalool, Citronellol, and other EU 26 allergens. Patch test if you have fragrance sensitivity.
NIVEA states this cream is non-comedogenic and won't clog pores when used on clean skin. Rating: 2/5 based on individual ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEucerit (Lanolin Alcohol)Signature
The revolutionary emulsifier invented by Dr. Isaac Lifschütz in 1900 that made NIVEA Crème possible. Extracted from sheep's wool, it creates a stable water-in-oil emulsion and provides exceptional skin-softening properties.
- Function: Emulsifier, emollient, and skin conditioner
- Benefit: Creates the unique smooth, blendable texture NIVEA is known for
- Heritage: The same ingredient used since 1911's original formula
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in your skin. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the surface, while strengthening the skin barrier.
- Source: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Comedogenic: 0/5 - Will not clog pores
- Benefits: Skin-identical ingredient, antimicrobial properties, wound healing support
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)Proven
NIVEA's hero ingredient for skin soothing and healing. Converts to Vitamin B5 in the skin, promoting cell regeneration and providing deep moisturization.
- Function: Humectant, soothing agent, skin repair
- Comedogenic: 0/5 - Non-pore clogging
- Benefits: Reduces redness, accelerates healing, softens skin texture
Mineral Oil & PetrolatumOcclusive
Highly refined petroleum derivatives that form a protective barrier on skin. Despite controversy, cosmetic-grade versions are purified and proven safe for topical use.
- Efficacy: Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%
- Safety: Undergoes strict purification to remove impurities before cosmetic use
- History: Over 100 years of safe use in skincare formulations
16-20 ingredients (varies by region)
German/EU Formula: Aqua, Paraffinum Liquidum, Cera Microcristallina, Glycerin, Lanolin Alcohol (Eucerit®), Paraffin, Panthenol, Magnesium Sulfate, Decyl Oleate, Octyldodecanol, Aluminum Stearates, Citric Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Limonene, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool, Citronellol, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Parfum
US Formula: Water, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Glycerin, Microcrystalline Wax, Lanolin Alcohol, Paraffin, Panthenol, Magnesium Sulfate, Decyl Oleate, Octyldodecanol, Aluminum Stearates, Fragrance, Citric Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Sodium Anisate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as your final step at night to seal in all previous products. In the morning, use sparingly before sunscreen or skip if using lighter moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Clean Skin
Cleanse thoroughly and apply any water-based serums first. NIVEA Crème works best as a final occlusive layer to lock in previous products.
Use a Small Amount
A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face. For body, use a thin layer – a little goes a long way with this rich formula.
Warm Between Fingers
Rub the cream between your fingertips to soften and warm it. This helps it spread more easily and absorb better into the skin.
Pat & Press Application
Gently pat and press into skin rather than rubbing. Focus on dry areas like cheeks, around the nose, and rough patches. Allow 2-3 minutes to absorb.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry to very dry skin that needs intensive moisture
- You want an affordable, time-tested moisturizer
- You need a multi-purpose cream for face, hands, and body
- You love the classic NIVEA scent from childhood
- You're looking for a sleeping pack or overnight treatment
- You have rough patches, elbows, knees, or cracked heels
- You prefer simple, no-frills formulas that just work
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-related skin conditions
- You're allergic or sensitive to lanolin
- You have fragrance sensitivity or allergies
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You have oily skin and live in a humid climate
- You want active anti-aging ingredients (retinol, peptides)
- You prefer vegan products (contains lanolin from sheep)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ideal skin type for NIVEA Crème. Rich occlusive formula provides intense, long-lasting hydration and prevents moisture loss beautifully.
Exceptional for severely dry skin. The petrolatum base creates a protective barrier that allows damaged skin to heal while retaining moisture.
Works well especially in colder months or dry climates. May feel slightly heavy for daily daytime use – best as a night treatment.
Apply only to dry areas (cheeks, around nose). Avoid T-zone if oily. Best used as targeted treatment rather than all-over moisturizer.
Too rich for oily skin types, especially in humid climates. May feel greasy and heavy. Consider NIVEA Soft or lightweight gel moisturizers instead.
Contains fragrance allergens which may irritate reactive skin. Patch test first. If tolerated, the simple formula is generally gentle.
Results timeline
1+ MONTHInstant Softness & Protection
Skin feels immediately softer and more supple. The rich cream creates a protective barrier you can feel, locking in moisture from the moment of application.
95% noticed softer skinReduced Dryness & Flakiness
Dry patches begin to smooth out. Rough areas like elbows, knees, and hands show visible improvement. Skin feels more comfortable throughout the day.
88% reported less dry skinImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use shows cumulative benefits. Skin barrier strengthens, fine lines from dehydration appear reduced, and overall skin texture becomes smoother.
82% saw texture improvementLong-Term Moisture Balance
Skin maintains better hydration levels. Fewer dry patches develop. Many users report needing less product over time as skin barrier improves.
79% achieved lasting resultsRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value – large tin lasts months
- Incredibly effective for very dry skin
- Multi-purpose: face, hands, body, cuticles, lips
- Beloved nostalgic scent for many users
- Simple, time-tested formula (110+ years)
- Works great as overnight sleeping mask
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- German formula especially praised as superior
Criticized
- Too heavy/greasy for oily skin types
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains fragrance allergens
- Takes time to fully absorb
- Not vegan (contains lanolin)
- Jar packaging less hygienic than pump
- US formula differs from German original
- No active anti-aging ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same parent company (Beiersdorf). Similar occlusive formula with petrolatum base. Fragrance-free option available for sensitive skin.
Petrolatum-based healing ointment. More occlusive and greasy than NIVEA. Great for severely dry/damaged skin but heavier texture. Also Beiersdorf owned.
Classic cold cream with similar heritage. Lighter texture, works as cleanser too. Different scent profile. Another drugstore icon from the same era.
Modern formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lighter texture, fragrance-free. Better for sensitive/acne-prone skin. MVE technology for time-release.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENIVEA Crème (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The 12M symbol on packaging indicates optimal use within one year of breaking the seal.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid bathroom humidity. Keep lid tightly closed after use.
Iconic blue tin (metal) or plastic jar. Tip: Use a clean spatula instead of fingers to maintain hygiene and extend product life.
Yes – available in travel sizes (30ml/1oz). TSA compliant. The sturdy tin packaging protects against leaks and damage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, NIVEA Crème is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are typically avoided during pregnancy. Beiersdorf confirms that all NIVEA products are evaluated for safety with female consumers, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, avoid applying directly before breastfeeding to prevent the baby from ingesting the product.
No, NIVEA Crème is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Decyl Oleate, and Lanolin Alcohol. Studies show that petroleum-based products may promote the growth of M. Furfur, a type of yeast associated with fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider fungal-safe alternatives like certain NIVEA products with different formulations or brands like Vanicream.
Yes, NIVEA Crème can be used with active ingredients, but timing matters. Apply water-based actives (vitamin C serums, AHAs, BHAs) first and let them absorb. Then apply NIVEA Crème as your final step to seal everything in. For retinol, apply retinol first, wait 20-30 minutes, then apply NIVEA Crème. The occlusive nature of NIVEA can help reduce irritation from actives by preventing moisture loss, but it may also enhance penetration, so start slowly if you have sensitive skin.
NIVEA Crème is best suited for dry to very dry skin types. Its rich, occlusive formula excels at providing intense hydration and preventing moisture loss. It's also excellent for eczema-prone skin, rough patches (elbows, knees, heels), and winter skincare. It's less suitable for oily skin, acne-prone skin, or those who prefer lightweight textures. Combination skin types can use it as a targeted treatment on dry areas only.
Results are immediate and cumulative. You'll feel softer skin instantly after the first application. Dry patches typically improve within 1-3 days of consistent use. For overall skin texture improvement and lasting hydration benefits, expect to see optimal results after 1-2 weeks of daily use. The petrolatum barrier helps skin retain moisture better over time, so many users find they need less product as their skin barrier strengthens.
NIVEA Crème should be your last step before sunscreen (AM) or your final step (PM). The order should be: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum → Eye Cream → NIVEA Crème → Sunscreen (morning only). Because it's an occlusive cream, applying it last seals in all previous products. Using it before other products would prevent them from penetrating the skin properly.
NIVEA officially states their Crème is non-comedogenic. However, it contains some ingredients with comedogenic potential, including Lanolin Alcohol (rating 2) and Decyl Oleate (rating 3). We rate it 2/5 overall. The key is using it on properly cleansed skin – if applied over makeup or other comedogenic products, the occlusive barrier could trap them and cause breakouts. Results vary by individual, so patch test if you're acne-prone.
NIVEA Crème should be used within 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Unopened, it has a shelf life of at least 30 months from the manufacturing date. Signs of expiration include changes in color, texture, smell, or separation. To maximize shelf life, store in a cool, dry place, keep the lid tightly closed, and use clean hands or a spatula to scoop product rather than dipping fingers directly into the jar.
Verdict: NIVEA Crème is a legendary moisturizer that has stood the test of time for over 110 years – and for good reason. Its simple, effective formula delivers exceptional hydration for dry skin at an unbeatable price point. The iconic blue tin offers multi-purpose versatility from face to feet. However, it's not perfect for everyone: those with fungal acne, lanolin allergies, or fragrance sensitivity should look elsewhere. Oily skin types will find it too heavy. But for its intended purpose – intensive moisture for dry skin – few products deliver this level of efficacy at this price. A true skincare classic that deserves a spot in every dry-skin beauty cabinet.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Microcrystalline Wax
Microcrystalline Wax
|
|