Caring for the planet means respecting animals we share it with. At NIVEA, they embrace this belief wholeheartedly, striving to be transparent about their dedication to animal welfare. With growing consumer awareness around labels, there is often confusion about what “cruelty-free skincare” truly means. They aim to clarify their actions in promoting ethical skincare practices.
NIVEA’s Position on Animal Testing
NIVEA firmly believes that animal testing is unnecessary for proving the efficacy and safety of their cosmetic products. With over 35 years of pioneering research in alternative test methods, they are leaders in the industry. As early as 1992, their skin research developed one of the world’s first officially approved non-animal testing methods.
NIVEA’s goal is to see the end of animal testing for cosmetics globally. To this end, they support various international working groups, sharing their scientific expertise and advocating for change. In regions like China, where animal testing is still mandated for certain products, they actively work to demonstrate the viability of alternative methods and push for regulatory change.
Why NIVEA Does Not Advertise “Cruelty-Free” or “Free from Animal Testing”
Since 2004, animal testing for cosmetics has been banned in the EU, and this ban has extended to all ingredients since 2013. NIVEA fully supports and compiles with these regulations, viewing them as crucial milestones in ethical skincare. Given that all cosmetic products in the EU are legally “free from animal testing,” they choose not to advertise this fact. Their commitment is to honest and transparent communication, rather than highlighting what is already a legal requirement.
Protecting Biodiversity: NIVEA’s Environmental Commitment
NIVEA’s responsibility extends beyond skincare to the broader protection of their planet and its diverse ecosystems. NIVEA’s parent company, Beiersdorf, is actively involved in initiatives aimed at preserving high-biodiversity ecosystems.
One significant initiative is based on the island of Borneo in Malaysia, where they collaborate with local partners to protect wildlife habitats in Tabin. This region is home to rare species like the Borneo elephant and the orangutan. Over the next five years, their efforts will focus on stabilizing these endangered populations.
NIVEA is committed to promoting sustainable palm oil production to achieve this goal, ensuring no further deforestation occurs. By 2025, they aim to certify all palm oil farmers in this region and a total area of 20,000 hectares according to the RSPO (Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil) standards.
NIVEA’s dedication to ethical skincare encompasses a clear stance against animal testing and a robust commitment to biodiversity. By embracing sustainable practices and advocating for regulatory changes globally, they strive to create a more humane and environmentally friendly skincare industry.