Beiersdorf Launches Cosmetics Product with Recycled CO2

Beiersdorf has launched Nivea Men Climate Care moisturizer featuring an ingredient obtained from recycled carbon dioxide. This is made possible by the carbon capture and utilization (CCU) process, which is an ultramodern method for making use of carbon, according to Beiersdorf. The CO2-recycling technology comprises multiple steps. First, the carbon dioxide is collected at locations such as industrial chimneys and diverted to a bioreactor, where it is then fermented and processed into a cosmetic ethanol. Ethanol is used in numerous cosmetic products. Nivea Men Climate Care Moisturizer has a soothing effect on the skin and adds a refreshing moisture boost.

The moisturizer contains 14% ethanol that has been obtained through alternative methods. Moreover, the formula is 100% free of microplastics, silicones, mineral oils, and PEG/PEG derivatives. This men’s skin care product is climate-neutralized* and manufactured using electricity from 100% renewable sources. The formula is 99% biodegradable, with fully recyclable packaging. The Nivea Men Climate Care Moisturizer will debut in Germany in early June 2022, starting as a limited edition at drugstores and online retailers.

“Our ambition is to offer consumers the highest product quality possible at all times. To make that happen, we combine our deep scientific expertise with the latest technologies such as this type of artificial photosynthesis,” says Dr. Gitta Neufang, corporate SVP-global R&D at Beiersdorf. “I am delighted that our product developers have initiated this innovative men’s skin care concept together with our partners and that they were the first in our industry to bring it to market. It is an impressive step that is bound to be followed by more developments in this direction.”

Beiersdorf wants to achieve an absolute reduction of 30% of its scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions and 10% of its scope 3 emissions group-wide by 2025 (using 2018 as a basis). These targets have been recognized by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and align with the demands of scientists to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

“This new men’s skin care product with the innovative CO2-recycling technology represents an important milestone for us,” says Jean-Francois Pascal, VP-sustainability/ “The ‘Climate Care’ name hits the mark very well, as our sustainability engagement goes far beyond the scope of our skin care products and puts climate action at the center of our approach.”