Rafaela Ribeiro, pharmacist: “The Nivea in the blue can is ideal because it has a simple formula, well made and that works decade after decade"

Posted on 27 August 2026

There is no stopping the Nivea cream, right now it is a cream that generates a lot of conversation and experts do not hesitate to give their opinion regarding this mythical cream. Our mothers and grandmothers continue to adore it, and new generations are beginning to realize why this cream is so iconic. For many women, the cream in the blue can is a basic that cannot be missed, especially for deeply hydrating.

Now, although it is a cream that works wonderfully to hydrate and repair the driest areas, we must also keep in mind that professionals do not usually recommend it for everything or for all skin types. For example, pharmacist Helena Rodero explains that “the traditional Nivea has not been formulated to function as an after-sun” and pharmacist Eduardo Senante has the same opinion since he believes “that it is a very occlusive cream and, therefore, when we have a sunburn it is not a good idea to apply such an occlusive cream at first.”

But although it is a cream that does not work for all skin types, pharmacist Rafaela Ribeiro believes that “the Nivea cream in the blue can is that type of product that everyone recognizes or looks for, and that evokes memories of times past,” she points out.

Because if Nivea has something, it is a simple and effective formula to treat dry skin and roughness. In addition, it leaves a very beautiful shine on the skin and its clean and creamy aroma leaves no one indifferent, so much so that we can even find Nivea Cologne with the same aroma. And although there are many sophisticated and effective cosmetics today, Nivea has found its own niche, especially for those looking for minimalist and uncomplicated routines.

A very nutritious iconic cream

As the Portuguese pharmaceutical company warns, “the cosmetics industry has advanced, in general, but Nivea's blue can remains faithful to its original formulation” and that is key to its success. “It is ideal because it has a simple, well-made formula that works decade after decade,” explains pharmacist Eduardo Senante. Both experts agree on the benefits of this classic and both share their personal recommendations when applying it.

According to pharmacist Ribeiro, Nivea cream was created in 1911 and “played a fundamental role in skin care for generations, at a time when there were few options available,” she says. It is clear that it is not just any cream, and “today it is still on the market and is a true basic in homes. It is incredibly versatile and practical to use!” highlights the expert.

One of the greatest benefits that the usual Nivea has is its high capacity to nourish, but the expert points out that “the Nivea in the blue can is not exactly a great moisturizing cream (although I love using it on dry skin!),” she says. In addition, Rafaela says that she applies the cream in her night routine since that is when “the skin is most receptive and cell renewal occurs,” she says.

As a facial cream it is not the best option

This is because it has very occlusive ingredients and a very dense texture, something that the OCU has recently highlighted. Many experts point out Nivea as a cream that helps retain moisture but its ingredients can clog pores. In this sense, pharmacist Miriam Arenas has spoken: “The blue can Nivea is fine for moisturizing elbows or heels, but not for the face because it clogs the pores,” she says.

Chemist Vladimir Sánchez points out that paraffin is one of the ingredients in Nivea, and although it is a very safe ingredient, “since it is a hydrocarbon, it could be retained in the pores and cause problems for people who are especially sensitive to the formation of acne,” he explains.

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Olivia Thompson
Olivia Thompson
I’m Olivia Thompson, born and raised in Wellington, New Zealand. As a lifestyle and travel writer at Latitude Magazine, I’m passionate about uncovering stories that connect people with new experiences and perspectives. My goal is to inspire readers to see everyday life – and the world – with fresh eyes.

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