Biodegradable Skincare

What is Biodegradable Skincare?

Biodegradation is a natural and balanced process that ensures a circular flow of materials in nature. We observe it every fall when trees shed their leaves, which then become forest soil and vital nutrients over the following months. However, non-biodegradable materials often disrupt this process and the natural cycle.

Thus, the term biodegradable skincare refers to products that are made from ingredients that can be broken down by bacteria and other living organisms, leaving no harmful residue and helping to prevent pollution.

Therefore, biodegradability is one of our priorities when developing skincare formulas. To evaluate the biodegradability of our formulations, we employ analytical methods according to the OECD or equivalent guidelines.

WHY DOES BIODEGRADABLE SKINCARE MATTER?

The benefits of biodegradable skincare products become apparent when you consider a rinse-off category, such as body cleansing. Think about the amount of product you wash off your skin and down the shower drain. Once used, water is sent to wastewater treatment plants, where cleaning processes emulate the natural biodegradation process. A biodegradable skincare product facilitates wastewater treatment and ensures that only biodegradable substances enter our water systems.

To improve the biodegradability of our formulations, NIVEA decided as early as 2013 to phase out exfoliating particles made of polyethylene, often referred to as microbeads in cosmetics.Since 2020, all NIVEA rinse-off products, such as shower gels and shampoos, have been free of any microplastic-particles, according to the United Nations Environmental Program’s (UNEP) definition. Instead, we use environmentally friendly alternatives. Most importantly, NIVEA products are microplastic-particle free since the end of 2021, according to UNEP’s definition.

Biodegradable Skincare Ingredients

Biodegradable skincare ingredients are derived from natural, organic, and renewable materials that decompose harmlessly into the environment. Here are some examples of:

- Plant-based oils, such as coconut oil, almond oil, and jojoba oil are rich in nutrients and help moisturise and nourish the skin.

- Herbs and botanicals, such as chamomile, aloe vera, and lavender extract, are often found in biodegradable skincare products and have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

- Essential oils, derived from plants and herbs, are used in skincare for their fragrance and skin-beneficial properties. Examples include tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial properties, and lavender oil, which has calming and soothing effects.

- Natural exfoliants, such as sugar, salt, and ground nuts, are commonly used in biodegradable skincare products to gently exfoliate the skin.

Additionally we also have biodegradable ingredients that are from a synthetic source that have been designed to be environmental friendly.

ONE SKIN. ONE PLANET. ONE CARE.

We want to be 100 percent transparent and answer all your questions about sustainability at NIVEA. If you could not find all the answers you were looking for on this website, or are looking for more detailed information, please visit the sustainability website of NIVEA’s parent company, Beiersdorf.