History of skincare – Iconic scent and formula | NIVEA

The history of
skincare

NIVEA has been a companion for over 100 years, providing care that skin needs.

NIVEA started out in 1890 when pharmacist Dr Troplowitz acquired a laboratory for dermatotherapeutic preparations in Hamburg. It was here that Troplowitz worked together with scientific consultant and dermatologist Professor Unna to create the first water-in-oil emulsion.

They discovered a new ointment base called Eucerit®. This is a special wax found that acts as an emulsifier. With this ointment, oil and water could be bound in a stable snow-white cream base for the first time. Prior to this creation, emulsions would react to changes in temperature and separate into water oil parts.

The resulting cream formulated with lipids, oils and its unique scent launched in 1911. This marked the beginning of an unparalleled brand history.

The breakthrough

In 1911, NIVEA began with a breakthrough:  Eucerit—a revolutionary emulsifier that blended oil and water into a smooth, stable cream, and changed skincare forever.

Original icon

This snow-white formula became the world's first modern skincare product—NIVEA Creme. Named after nix, Latin for snow, it quickly became a global phenomenon.

Portrait of Dr. Oscar Troplowitz with his signature

Science meets skin

Behind this innovation stood Dr. Oscar Troplowitz, a forward-thinking pharmacist whose belief in science-backed care laid the foundation for NIVEA.

Here comes the sun

As skin science advanced, so did we—introducing SPF into mainstream sun care and making everyday protection simple, effective, and accessible for all.

Female firsts

By the ‘70s, NIVEA was pioneering a new era of skincare for a new era of women—creating visionary campaigns and products that celebrated confidence and independence.

A new kind of fresh

Our world first alcohol-free aftershave revolutionised men's skincare—offering gentle protection that soothes rather than stings.

Anti-aging innovation

In the ’90s, NIVEA unlocked the anti-aging power of coenzyme Q10, giving millions access to a science-backed way to reduce wrinkles and support skin renewal.

Moisture, made effortless

The first-ever in-shower body lotion was a NIVEA innovation—combining convenience and care to delivering smooth, hydrated skin in seconds, with no extra effort.

Introducing
NIVEA Creme

Everyone knows the blue tin, white cream and distinct scent. In fact, this cream is loved by generations around the world for its moisturizing properties and its truly unique fragrance.

The story of
NIVEA skincare

Not only was NIVEA Creme an innovative product when first introduced, its packaging was also extraordinary. A special machine was used to package the cream into aluminum tins which marked a turning point for modern cosmetics.

It was no surprise that the snow-white cream was an instant hit. The formula was used as a lotion for body, face and hands, but also to care for children’s skin, as it was so gentle.

Three years after its introduction, NIVEA Creme was sold in 34 countries. Today, NIVEA Creme is still NIVEA’s best-selling product, with more than 15 billion tins being sold since its launch.