Throwback: Nivea Cream

Throwback: Nivea Cream (German Version)

German Nivea creme has a reputation for being a dupe of La Mer. It is also a classic cream and was created in 1911. The made in Germany Nivea cream can't be found in the United States, but is only sold in Europe. The Nivea sold in the US is made in Mexico and appears to differ from the German version. This tin is the German version.

You can see it has a thick consistency. The product contains mineral oil to lock in moisture. I apply it by warming it between my fingertips and pressing it into the skin. It can be used on both face and body. I find it to be non-irritating and works well when my skin feels sensitive or very dry. As far as being  a dupe for La Mer, well I would say the consistency is the same and it does work very similarly for a fraction of the price.

It is hard to obtain a jar of the German version, unless you purchase it while in Europe or online on either eBay or this small retailer that specializes in international products, Smallflower.

Where to buy: Smallflower (link)

Throwback: NIA24 Skin Strengthening Complex

Throwback: NIA24 Skin Strengthening Complex

The NIA24 Skin Strengthening Complex is a product I have been using on and off for nearly a decade now. It is one of my standby products and I have purchased several tubes of this over the years.

The product's key ingredient is nicotinic acid. Additionally, it contains evening primrose oil, ceramides, apple fruit extract, green tea extract, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. In other words, it contains a whole host of beneficial ingredients for skin.

It's technically fragrance free although I can detect a scent, I'm not sure what I would compare it to. I find this cream to be rich and hydrating which definitely helps for the winter months. Its hard to tell if it has an anti-aging effect since I've been using it for so long and so young, but based on the ingredients if you are looking for something to combat wrinkles, this would be it. The product in general helps to repair the skin barrier so almost anyone can use it. It be can pricey at $93 a tube, however, often websites such as Skinstore and SkincareRx run promotions which include the brand, so search for coupons and promo codes before purchasing. 

Where to buy: Dermstore (link), SkincareRx (link), Skinstore (link)