
Ingredients
Glossary
We create skincare formulations that are composed to protect and enhance your skin’s natural biological function. In harmony with our brand values – trust, care, inclusivity - we ensure a 100% honest and transparent glossary.
All descriptions have been put together by our scientific experts as a general ingredient description, not related exclusively to our NIVEA products or claims.
A-E
1,2-Hexanediol is used as a moisturizer, humectant, solvent and skin conditioning agent. It makes lipophilic active ingredients soluble. This ingredient is used in the manufacture of skin and hair care products, perfumes, cosmetic products and makeup.
Bisabolol plays a relatively significant role in both medical and cosmetic products. For many products, synthetically produced bisabolol is preferred due to its high purity. Bisabolol is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
There are two types of mineral oils: synthetic oils, which are completely pure after their production, and petrochemical mineral oils. The latter are refined mineral oils obtained after processing fossil materials such as coal, petroleum or natural gas. All mineral oils used in our cosmetic products are of pharmaceutical quality and therefore very pure. The main property of these ingredients is that they protect the skin from drying out. They also improve the quality of textures and are very good for cleansing the skin and removing makeup.
Ceramides are known for their anti-aging effect and are used in numerous skin care products."
Cetearyl alcohol (also: cetyl stearyl alcohol) is a mixture of cetyl alcohol (hexadecanol) and stearyl alcohol (octadecanol). Both components are often obtained from vegetable fats or oils, which is why they are also called fatty alcohols. Cetyl alcohol (hexadecanol) and stearyl alcohol (octadecanol) can also be obtained by hydrolysis of waxes. Cetearyl alcohol is used in many cosmetic formulas because it improves the stability of emulsions and the texture of mixtures. Cetearyl alcohol forms a solid white mass that serves as a water-binding, consistency-giving component.
Cetearyl Isononanoate (also cetyl stearyl isononanoate) is the ester, i.e., the compound of pelargonic acid and cetearyl alcohol. Its main portion is based on a renewable vegetable raw material (palm and/or palm kernel oil). A smaller part of the molecule is derived from petrochemical raw materials. Cetearyl Isononanoate is a medium-viscosity product with strong hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties. It makes rough skin soft and supple.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used in both decorative cosmetics and skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Colors are used both in decorative cosmetics and for skin care products.
Coco-Betaine is a mild amphoteric surfactant used in shampoos and skin cleansers. Surfactants have many functions; as cleansing agents they dissolve dirt and as suspending agents they prevent solid particles from dissolving out of a liquid product. They also serve as foam boosters and, as emulsifiers, enable the mixing of oil and water.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a product of natural origin from coconut fatty alcohol from the kernel or flesh of mature coconuts and a certain mixture of fractionated fatty acids of vegetable origin. It spreads quickly and provides suppleness as a refatting agent. Due to its extremely light skin feel and good spreading properties, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate provides a pleasant skin feel. It is non-oxidizable and odorless. With this balanced care profile, it is an excellent choice for all types of skin care, baby care and massage products and much more.
Coco-Glucoside is formed by the reaction of coconut oil fatty acids with glucose. The result is a mild surfactant that is widely used in infant care as well as facial and body cleansing. Surfactants have many functions; as cleansing agents they dissolve dirt and as suspending agents they prevent solid particles from dissolving out of a liquid product. They also serve as foam boosters and, as emulsifiers, enable the mixing of oil and water.
Cocoglycerides are 100% derived from renewable raw materials. They are obtained from vegetable triglyceride from coconut oil or oil palm fruit oil. As emollients, they are widely used in cosmetics and keep the skin soft, supple and cared for.
Coconut Acid is a natural mixture of partially medium-chain fatty acids obtained from the oil of Cocos Nucifera (coconut). In skin care products, it is used as a surfactant/cleansing agent, emollient and emulsifier. It moisturizes the skin and keeps it soft and supple. It is slowly absorbed by the skin and has good stability.
Colloidal oatmeal is very finely ground oat flour. It is known to soothe minor skin irritations. In cosmetics and skin care products, it is also known as "Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Meal".
Copernicia Cerifera Cera (Carnauba wax) is a processed vegetable wax obtained from the young leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm.
Creatine is an amino acid derivative produced by the body and plays a central role in the energy supply of cells. The cell's own physiological creatine level is fed by biosynthesis of the amino acids arginine, glycine and methionine and/or alternatively by the consumption of meat and fish. In our body, creatine functions like a battery that equally stores, transports and releases energy, helping to meet our changing energy needs.
Silicones are synthetic ingredients in the form of oils and gels with more or less dense texture. Silicones are synthesized from silicon – a mineral compound that is abundant in nature as silica, the main component of sand. The key property of silicone oils in cosmetic products is that they add smoothness: they give products like creams or makeup a silky, spreadable, rich texture and ensure that shampoos and other hair care products give hair shine and softness. To identify silicones in our products, take a look at the ingredient list on the packaging. They can be found under names such as "Dimethicone", "Cyclomethicone", "Dimethiconol" and "Amodimethicone".
Decyl Glucoside is formed by the reaction of a type of alcohol with glucose. The result is a mild surfactant that is widely used in infant care as well as facial and body cleansing. Surfactants have many functions; as cleansing agents they dissolve dirt and as suspending agents they prevent solid particles from dissolving out of a liquid product. They also serve as foam boosters and, as emulsifiers, enable the mixing of oil and water.
Decyl Oleate (decyl oleate ester) is the ester, i.e., the compound of oleic acid and decyl alcohol. It is a naturally generated emollient that leaves a sticky, soft and supple skin feel. The ingredient is found, for example, in lipsticks.
Decanediol (Decylene Glycol) is a moisturizing ingredient with antibacterial properties. It makes the skin soft and supple.
This ingredient belongs to the group of preservatives that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). Preservatives like the one mentioned here are intended to protect cosmetic products. These ingredients play an essential role in protecting cosmetics from spoilage and contamination by microorganisms during storage and continued use. This is important for consumer safety. Product safety is the top priority for the cosmetics industry, and that's why we offer products formulated to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Bacteria, yeasts and molds are always present on our skin, in the air around us and even in drinking water. These can enter products during normal use. Contamination of products, especially those used around the eyes and on the skin, can cause significant problems at high levels of contamination. Preservatives can prevent these problems by inhibiting the multiplication of microorganisms in the product. The most commonly used preservatives in our products are phenoxyethanol and parabens.
Dibutyl Adipate (dibutyl adipate ester) is the diester, i.e., a compound of butyl alcohol and adipic acid. It is a synthetic clear, colorless, oily liquid that spreads easily on the skin. It gives the skin a soft, smooth appearance. Due to its excellent solubilizing properties for crystalline filters, it is particularly suitable for sun protection products.
Dicaprylyl Ether can be obtained naturally (from palm oil or palm kernel oil) or derived from petrochemical raw materials. It is found, for example, in skin moisturizers/lotions, sunscreens, anti-aging products, eye creams and deodorants.
Dicaprylyl Carbonate is a diester of caprylyl alcohol (naturally obtained from palm oil or palm kernel oil) and carbonic acid (from petrochemical raw materials). Dicaprylyl Carbonate is an easy-to-spread, dry, non-greasy emollient. This oil is frequently used in body and facial care, antiperspirants/deodorants, baby care and sun protection care.
This ingredient belongs to the group of preservatives that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). Preservatives like the one mentioned here are intended to protect cosmetic products. These ingredients play an essential role in protecting cosmetics from spoilage and contamination by microorganisms during storage and continued use. This is important for consumer safety. Product safety is the top priority for the cosmetics industry, and that's why we offer products formulated to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Bacteria, yeasts and molds are always present on our skin, in the air around us and even in drinking water. These can enter products during normal use. Contamination of products, especially those used around the eyes and on the skin, can cause significant problems at high levels of contamination. Preservatives can prevent these problems by inhibiting the multiplication of microorganisms in the product. The most commonly used preservatives in our products are phenoxyethanol and parabens.
This ingredient belongs to the group of UV filters ("UV" stands for "ultraviolet") that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). UV filters protect the skin from sun-induced damage and prevent risks of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin aging and the formation of pimples. Generally, two types of UV filters are distinguished: Organic filters absorb UVA and UVB rays and convert energy into heat. Mineral filters, on the other hand, consist of tiny particles that form a kind of protective shield on the skin and mainly reflect UVB radiation and less UVA radiation. Each UV filter offers a specific type of protection against UV radiation, which is why sunscreens and day care products with SPF typically consist of a combination of different filters to ensure comprehensive protection.
This ingredient belongs to the group of UV filters ("UV" stands for "ultraviolet") that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). UV filters protect the skin from sun-induced damage and prevent risks of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin aging and the formation of pimples. Generally, two types of UV filters are distinguished: Organic filters absorb UVA and UVB rays and convert energy into heat. Mineral filters, on the other hand, consist of tiny particles that form a kind of protective shield on the skin and mainly reflect UVB radiation and less UVA radiation. Each UV filter offers a specific type of protection against UV radiation, which is why sunscreens and day care products with SPF typically consist of a combination of different filters to ensure comprehensive protection.
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenmalonate protects cosmetic products from light-induced chemical or physical deterioration as an antioxidant.
Silicones are synthetic ingredients in the form of oils and gels with more or less dense texture. Silicones are synthesized from silicon – a mineral compound that is abundant in nature as silica, the main component of sand. The key property of silicone oils in cosmetic products is that they add smoothness: they give products like creams or makeup a silky, spreadable, rich texture and ensure that shampoos and other hair care products give hair shine and softness. To identify silicones in our products, take a look at the ingredient list on the packaging. They can be found under names such as "Dimethicone", "Cyclomethicone", "Dimethiconol" and "Amodimethicone".
Silicones are synthetic ingredients in the form of oils and gels with more or less dense texture. Silicones are synthesized from silicon – a mineral compound that is abundant in nature as silica, the main component of sand. The key property of silicone oils in cosmetic products is that they add smoothness: they give products like creams or makeup a silky, spreadable, rich texture and ensure that shampoos and other hair care products give hair shine and softness. To identify silicones in our products, take a look at the ingredient list on the packaging. They can be found under names such as "Dimethicone", "Cyclomethicone", "Dimethiconol" and "Amodimethicone".
Silicones are synthetic ingredients in the form of oils and gels with more or less dense texture. Silicones are synthesized from silicon – a mineral compound that is abundant in nature as silica, the main component of sand. The key property of silicone oils in cosmetic products is that they add smoothness: they give products like creams or makeup a silky, spreadable, rich texture and ensure that shampoos and other hair care products give hair shine and softness. To identify silicones in our products, take a look at the ingredient list on the packaging. They can be found under names such as "Dimethicone", "Cyclomethicone", "Dimethiconol" and "Amodimethicone".
The combination of Tridecyl Stearate, Tridecyl Trimellitate and Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate creates a special mixture of esters of non-animal origin. The sensory properties of this emollient mixture are rich without being sticky, and long-lastingly silky and soft. The sources are vegetable (seeds, kernels and fruits of coconut and/or palm) as well as synthetic.
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate is a mild anionic surfactant based on amino acids. It provides fine foam and good cleansing in skin and hair products.
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is an anionic surfactant used in shampoos and skin cleansers. Surfactants have many functions; as cleansing agents they dissolve dirt and as suspending agents they prevent solid particles from dissolving out of a liquid product. They also serve as foam boosters and, as emulsifiers, enable the mixing of oil and water.
Disodium PEG-5 Laurylcitrate Sulfosuccinate is an anionic surfactant used in shampoos and skin cleansers. Surfactants have many functions; as cleansing agents they dissolve dirt and as suspending agents they prevent solid particles from dissolving out of a liquid product. They also serve as foam boosters and, as emulsifiers, enable the mixing of oil and water.
Distarch Phosphate is a modified natural starch, typically using corn starch. The μm-sized starch powder absorbs large amounts of lipids (oils). Therefore, Distarch Phosphate can provide a delicate and smooth, less greasy skin feel when incorporated into emulsions such as creams or lotions. Distarch Phosphate is particularly suitable for giving cosmetic products a mattifying effect.
Disteardimonium Hectorite is a lipophilic modified clay, also known as organoclay. This raw material thickens oils and is used in deodorant aerosols, bar soaps or makeup products. Disteardimonium Hectorite also stabilizes emulsions due to its oil-thickening properties.
This ingredient belongs to the group of preservatives that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). Preservatives like the one mentioned here are intended to protect cosmetic products. These ingredients play an essential role in protecting cosmetics from spoilage and contamination by microorganisms during storage and continued use. This is important for consumer safety. Product safety is the top priority for the cosmetics industry, and that's why we offer products formulated to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Bacteria, yeasts and molds are always present on our skin, in the air around us and even in drinking water. These can enter products during normal use. Contamination of products, especially those used around the eyes and on the skin, can cause significant problems at high levels of contamination. Preservatives can prevent these problems by inhibiting the multiplication of microorganisms in the product. The most commonly used preservatives in our products are phenoxyethanol and parabens.
EDTA and the salts of EDTA (e.g., Trisodium EDTA) are synthetically produced. The main reason they are added to cosmetic products is their excellent property of binding metal ions. In this way, they prevent the deterioration of cosmetics and extend their shelf life.
Ethylhexyl Cocoate is a high-quality ester emollient. One part of the molecule comes from a renewable plant source (coconut). The other part is generated from petrochemical raw materials. Ethylhexyl Cocoate is widely used in cosmetic products and can create a soft skin feel. It is mainly used in facial and body care products.
This ingredient belongs to the group of UV filters ("UV" stands for "ultraviolet") that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). UV filters protect the skin from sun-induced damage and prevent risks of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin aging and the formation of pimples. Generally, two types of UV filters are distinguished: Organic filters absorb UVA and UVB rays and convert energy into heat. Mineral filters, on the other hand, consist of tiny particles that form a kind of protective shield on the skin and mainly reflect UVB radiation and less UVA radiation. Each UV filter offers a specific type of protection against UV radiation, which is why sunscreens and day care products with SPF typically consist of a combination of different filters to ensure comprehensive protection.
This ingredient belongs to the group of UV filters ("UV" stands for "ultraviolet") that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). UV filters protect the skin from sun-induced damage and prevent risks of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin aging and the formation of pimples. Generally, two types of UV filters are distinguished: Organic filters absorb UVA and UVB rays and convert energy into heat. Mineral filters, on the other hand, consist of tiny particles that form a kind of protective shield on the skin and mainly reflect UVB radiation and less UVA radiation. Each UV filter offers a specific type of protection against UV radiation, which is why sunscreens and day care products with SPF typically consist of a combination of different filters to ensure comprehensive protection.
Ethylhexyl Stearate is a fast-absorbing cosmetic oil that spreads easily and is oxidation-stable. One part of the molecule comes from a renewable plant source (palm or palm kernel oil). The other part is generated from petrochemical raw materials. Ethylhexyl Stearate is suitable for a variety of creams and lotions, body oils and bath additives, as well as for use in sunscreens, as it is highly compatible with UV filters.
This ingredient belongs to the group of UV filters ("UV" stands for "ultraviolet") that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). UV filters protect the skin from sun-induced damage and prevent risks of skin cancer, sunburn, premature skin aging and the formation of pimples. Generally, two types of UV filters are distinguished: Organic filters absorb UVA and UVB rays and convert energy into heat. Mineral filters, on the other hand, consist of tiny particles that form a kind of protective shield on the skin and mainly reflect UVB radiation and less UVA radiation. Each UV filter offers a specific type of protection against UV radiation, which is why sunscreens and day care products with SPF typically consist of a combination of different filters to ensure comprehensive protection.
As an emollient and mild moisturizer, it improves the skin feel in cosmetic formulas. In addition, it can improve the effectiveness of conventional preservatives and be used as an antimicrobial stabilizer in combination with other cosmetic ingredients. Ethylhexylglycerin is a worldwide approved substance as a versatile and multifunctional additive that is a very effective deodorizing agent. Ethylhexylglycerin reliably inhibits the growth and multiplication of odor-causing bacteria without affecting the skin flora.
This ingredient belongs to the group of preservatives that are permitted for use in cosmetic products within the EU and are part of a positive list (Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation). Preservatives like the one mentioned here are intended to protect cosmetic products. These ingredients play an essential role in protecting cosmetics from spoilage and contamination by microorganisms during storage and continued use. This is important for consumer safety. Product safety is the top priority for the cosmetics industry, and that's why we offer products formulated to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Bacteria, yeasts and molds are always present on our skin, in the air around us and even in drinking water. These can enter products during normal use. Contamination of products, especially those used around the eyes and on the skin, can cause significant problems at high levels of contamination. Preservatives can prevent these problems by inhibiting the multiplication of microorganisms in the product. The most commonly used preservatives in our products are phenoxyethanol and parabens.
F-J
Soybean oil is clear, pale yellow and semi-drying and has a weak but characteristic odor. It is a typical all-purpose oil. 55-65% of Glycine Soja Oil consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids. In cosmetics, it is often used as an emollient.
K-O
There are two types of mineral oils: synthetic oils, which are completely pure after their production, and petrochemical mineral oils. The latter are refined mineral oils obtained after processing fossil materials such as coal, petroleum or natural gas. All mineral oils used in our cosmetic products are of pharmaceutical quality and therefore very pure. The main property of these ingredients is that they protect the skin from drying out. They also improve the quality of textures and are very good for cleansing the skin and removing makeup.
To identify these ingredients, read the ingredient list on the packaging of our products. Names such as "Paraffinum liquidum", "Cera Microcristallina", "Ozokerite", "Paraffin" and "Synthetic Wax" identify mineral oil-based ingredients.
P-T
There are two types of mineral oils: synthetic oils, which are completely pure after their production, and petrochemical mineral oils. The latter are refined mineral oils obtained after processing fossil materials such as coal, petroleum or natural gas. All mineral oils used in our cosmetic products are of pharmaceutical quality and therefore very pure. The main property of these ingredients is that they protect the skin from drying out. They also improve the quality of textures and are very good for cleansing the skin and removing makeup.
To identify these ingredients, read the ingredient list on the packaging of our products. Names such as "Paraffinum liquidum", "Cera Microcristallina", "Ozokerite", "Paraffin" and "Synthetic Wax" identify mineral oil-based ingredients.
There are two types of mineral oils: synthetic oils, which are completely pure after their production, and petrochemical mineral oils. The latter are refined mineral oils obtained after processing fossil materials such as coal, petroleum or natural gas. All mineral oils used in our cosmetic products are of pharmaceutical quality and therefore very pure. The main property of these ingredients is that they protect the skin from drying out. They also improve the quality of textures and are very good for cleansing the skin and removing makeup.
To identify these ingredients, read the ingredient list on the packaging of our products. Names such as "Paraffinum liquidum", "Cera Microcristallina", "Ozokerite", "Paraffin" and "Synthetic Wax" identify mineral oil-based ingredients.
Silicones are synthesized from silicon. This mineral ingredient is abundant in nature as silicic acid, the main component of sand.
Preservatives are intended to protect cosmetic products from spoilage and contamination by microorganisms during storage and continued use. This is important for consumer safety – which is a top priority for the cosmetics industry. We therefore offer products whose formulas are designed to prevent contamination by microorganisms.
Bacteria, yeasts and molds are always and everywhere present: on our skin, in the air around us and even in the water we drink. During quite ordinary use, they can enter products at any time. The contamination of products – especially those used around the eyes and on the skin – can cause significant problems at high contamination levels. Preservatives can prevent this by stopping the multiplication of microorganisms in the product.
The most commonly used preservatives in our products are phenoxyethanol and parabens.
Silicones are synthetic ingredients that exist in the form of oils and gels with more or less thick texture.
Silicones are synthesized from silicon, a mineral compound that is abundant in nature as silicic acid, the main component of sand.
The main task of silicone oils in cosmetic products is smoothing: they give products like creams or makeup a silky, spreadable, luxurious texture as well as shine and softness in shampoos and other hair care products.
Steareth-20 reduces the interaction forces between the molecules of different liquids in care products and enables an emulsion to form. Without Steareth or a comparable ingredient, the various components of the product would separate.
There are two types of mineral oils: synthetic oils, which are completely pure after their production, and petrochemical mineral oils. The latter are refined mineral oils obtained after processing fossil materials such as coal, petroleum or natural gas. All mineral oils used in our cosmetic products are of pharmaceutical quality and therefore very pure. The main property of these ingredients is that they protect the skin from drying out. They also improve the quality of textures and are very good for cleansing the skin and removing makeup.
To identify these ingredients, read the ingredient list on the packaging of our products. Names such as "Paraffinum liquidum", "Cera Microcristallina", "Ozokerite", "Paraffin" and "Synthetic Wax" identify mineral oil-based ingredients.
Alternative
EDTA and the associated salts (e.g., Trisodium EDTA) are synthetically produced. Their main task in cosmetic products is to bind metal ions and thus ensure shelf life.
Vitamin E is a natural component of some foods and is also available as a dietary supplement. "Vitamin E" is the collective term for a group of fat-soluble compounds that protect cosmetic products through their pronounced antioxidant effect.
Natural vitamin E occurs in eight chemical forms with different degrees of biological activity: alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherol as well as alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocotrienol. Alpha- (or α-)tocopherol is the only form that demonstrably meets human needs. Tocopheryl acetate is a synthetic derivative of natural vitamin E.
Natural vitamin E occurs in eight chemical forms (alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherol and alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocotrienol) with different degrees of biological activity. Alpha- (or α-) tocopherol is the only form that demonstrably meets human needs.