The Nivea cream in the blue can is one of those creams that many women rely on to keep their skin hydrated, nourished and protected. What's more, many professionals agree that its moisturizing function is clear and this is due to ingredients such as paraffin, panthenol or glycerin that prevent the loss of moisture from the skin. But at the same time, they also warn that these same occlusive ingredients can cause pimples.
According to natural cosmetics and aromatherapy expert Carmen Roldán, the ingredients in Nivea cream “can be too heavy or occlusive.” Now, this is like everything, there are people who are delighted with their usual Nivea cream and others, due to their skin type, need other ingredients and textures.
For example, skin that does not tolerate such a dense texture well can find many benefits in vegetable oils. “The majority obtain more benefit from vegetable oils that are better absorbed by the skin, do not leave a persistent greasy film and are more compatible with skin that seeks light nutrition,” explains Roldán. Specifically, the expert recommends four perfect oils to replace the Nivea cream if you want something lighter and more natural.
Vegetable oils provide good quality lipids that integrate and reinforce the structure of the skin. For this reason, oils can perfectly replace a conventional body cream if you are looking for deep nutrition with a lighter texture.
jojoba oil
This oil is one of the most recommended for combination-oily skin, since it is an oil that has a composition similar to that of natural sebum and this makes it easier to absorb without leaving a greasy sensation. In addition, jojoba oil is a perfect moisturizer that keeps the skin hydrated, elastic and calms minor irritations.
A perfect alternative for those looking for hydration without heaviness and without creating a film on the skin. This oil is so light that it works even in hot climates or for combination skin.
Vegetable squalene oil
Vegetable squalene comes mainly from olives. This oil “absorbs very well, is light and does not leave a greasy feeling,” says Carmen Roldán.
Without a doubt one of its strong points is its excellent absorption, it does so quickly without leaving a greasy feeling. Especially appreciated by sensitive, dry or mature skin that needs lipids without becoming saturated. This oil is perfect for those looking for very light textures and want to replace their classic cream.
Almond or avocado oil with shea: more intense, but natural nutrition
When the skin needs a lot of nutrition, especially the body skin, we need more creamy and nourishing ingredients. Here we can play with different oils and butters. The expert recommends sweet almond oil or avocado oil with shea butter.
Roldán states that this mixture provides elasticity, softens the surface and leaves a healthy shine without being heavy if the product is massaged well.
Grape seed or argan oil: ultralight options
Both grape seed oil and argan oil are two wonderful options for taking care of the skin without providing textures that are too dense or heavy. They are two oils that are absorbed quickly, do not leave a film and provide lipids necessary to maintain skin comfort and protected skin. In addition, these oils have anti-aging action thanks to the antioxidants they provide, perfect for fighting free radicals.
The Nivea cream from the blue can then yes or no
According to Carmen Roldán, classic Nivea is still useful for very dry skin that needs a powerful barrier. What's more, although Carmen says she does not personally use Nivea cream or anything that is not 100% natural, it is true that each person is different and she has seen wonderful skin that has been using Nivea for forty years. Therefore, his opinion is that you see if it suits you or not.
“Now, for people who want more natural cosmetics, better absorption, less heavy feeling and who have combination or acne-prone skin, I would prefer the oils that I have mentioned,” he comments.
But something we should also know is that although these are vegetable oils, we must also perform an allergy test. A small amount on the forearm is enough to know if we tolerate it well. Just as it is very important to keep the oils well in a cool, dark place, and always close the jars tightly so that the oils do not oxidize.
