Which ingredient names are used on the labeling? How are ingredients named?
The list of ingredients gives people with allergies the opportunity to check if the product contains substances that they do not tolerate before they buy. This is made possible by the use of uniform designations across Europe.

For this reason, a nomenclature has been prepared by an International Committee (INCI: International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredients) that all manufacturers of cosmetic products are obliged to use. If you have any questions on individual ingredients, please contact us directly. We would be happy to provide further information.

How is the tolerance of NIVEA MEN products tested?
The skin tolerance of our products is carefully tested before the products are released for distribution. These tests are carried out in our research department and additionally by independent research institutes. However, it is not possible to fully exclude the occurrence of an intolerance reaction which can be caused by individual over-sensitivity to one of the ingredients. 

Alcohol-free products: Is a product really alcohol-free even if cetyl alcohol, for example, is listed as an ingredient?
In chemistry there is a group of substances with the collective name 'alcohols'. Their physical states range from liquid to solid, with different properties. When 'no alcohol' is stated on a product, this refers to ethyl alcohol, which is also a component of alcoholic drinks.

In cosmetic products, ethyl alcohol has a refreshing and invigorating effect. In the full declaration of the ingredients on the packaging, ethyl alcohol is listed as 'alcohol' or 'alcohol, denat.'.  The aliphatic alcohols (e.g. cetearyl alcohol or lanolin alcohol) are solid substances. They are used, for example, as emulsifying agents with a nourishing effect, which give the product the required consistency.

How high is the water content in creams/lotions?
The water content of all emulsions on the market (independent of manufacturer) is between ca. 70 and 90 %. The latest scientific studies have shown that the moisturising effect reduces the susceptibility of sensitive skins.

The water content of NIVEA Creme is ca. 70 %. It is a water-in-oil emulsion. NIVEA Creme has been popular for decades thanks to its excellent skin tolerance and excellent nourishing properties.

Which is better: wet or dry shaving?
It depends on the condition of your skin and what you're used to (e.g. a dry shave is recommended for sufferers of chronic acne). The advantage of a wet shave is thoroughness, and the advantages of a dry shave are speed and convenience. In both cases you should help your skin to regenerate quickly after shaving by using the right aftershave care: e.g. aftershave enriched with moisturisers and vitamins.

For a wet and dry shave in one use the Philips Moisturising Shaving System - an electric shaver with NIVEA MEN skincare expertise.

And what if I cut myself?
Cold water is often enough to stop small cuts from bleeding. An anti-bacterial and styptic pencil will help to stop heavier bleeding (available at the chemist's). 

My skin is nearly always irritable with red spots after shaving. Why is that?
This can be caused by many things:

• shaving against the direction of hair growth
• pressing down too hard on the blade
• using shaving products containing alcohol or heavy fragrance
• rubbing your face dry with a towel instead of patting it gently
• using an electric shaver that could catch and pull the stubble out of your skin (try using a lower setting, but consult a dermatologist if the problem persists).

I often have in-growing facial hair. How does this occur and how can I avoid it?
In-grown hairs often occur in men with curly beard hair; however, modifying your shaving technique can help. Instead of shaving against the grain, follow the direction of your hair growth.

Also, exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and clear a path for hairs to grow out properly.

Last but not least, acne-prone skin can distort the hair follicles and cause them to grow along under the skin. Use tweezers (carefully) to shift the hair loose so it can grow properly. But if you see a red circle around the hair, a visit to the dermatologist would help.

What is the difference between shaving gels, foams and creams?
Selecting a shaving product really is a matter of personal preference. The advantage of a shaving foam is that it can be used quickly and directly after spraying from the can. Shaving gel, on the other hand, is sprayed into your hand without having to shake the container. By moving it through your fingers in a circular motion, a large amount of shaving foam is created from a small amount of shaving gel. Using shaving cream is the classic (and some would say expert) approach. It requires a shaving brush, which helps the hair stand up, making it easier to shave.

Does NIVEA MEN also offer alcohol-free aftershaves?
Yes. The NIVEA MEN Sensitive range is offered especially for guys with sensitive skin (look for the white packaging).

Do I have to use after shave?
No, but you probably should. Daily shaving exerts additional stress on the skin. Using the right after shave care can help counterbalance that stress.

The moisture restorative after shave balms from NIVEA MEN replenish the skin and leave it feeling smoother after shaving. And balms with vitamins and provitamins nourish, help protect, and revitalize the skin.

My skin is very sensitive – if I use aftershave after shaving, my skin burns. Is there anything else I can use?

Yes. The burning you're experiencing may be caused by the high amount of alcohol and perfume in your after shave. Try using a product which is odorless or lightly scented and free of alcohol. It'll be kinder to your skin.

Why do I need to use special skincare products for men?
A man's facial skin is different from a woman's in many ways. It's up to 30% thicker and contains a tighter network of fatty tissue called the subcutis. It also has higher water-binding properties which often make it appear firmer and tighter than women's skin. It's also less likely to dry out and form wrinkles. Word to the wise, never mention this to any of the ladies in your life.

On the other hand, men's skin is oilier, which is why younger men are more likely to get blackheads and other skin blemishes. The 4-step care system developed by the NIVEA MEN research team (cleansing, shaving, after shave, and skincare) is specifically designed to meet a man's special skincare needs.

What is Q10?
Q10 is a coenzyme found naturally in skin and provides cells with energy. It's the double-shot espresso your skin needs to get through the hectic pace of modern-day living, stress, and environmental effects. NIVEA MEN Revitalizing Cream Q10 was designed to nourish and provide your skin with this essential coenzyme for healthy-looking, revitalized skin.

Do I need different facial products in winter/with low temperatures than in summer?
Yes. Low temperatures and the air in heated rooms dry out your skin faster. Since your skin requires more moisture at these times, it's recommended that you use richer creams that not only moisturize your skin but also help to retain moisture longer. And not just in the daytime. Try a rich night care product in lower temperatures. We also recommend using an SPF product for the day.

Why do dark circles and puffiness form under the eyes and can an eye cream help?
Dark circles under the eyes and puffiness can be caused by a lack of sleep or an unhealthy lifestyle (video-game addiction qualifies as this). Micro circulation in the area around the eyes is very weak which slows the drainage of metabolic waste. Eyes get puffy, and blood vessels become visible behind the thin skin around the eyes.

To visibly reduce the dark circles and puffiness, try massaging a cooling eye cream into the area under the eyes. You could also try putting down the remote control and getting some shuteye.