Nivea’s classic blue cream has been a beauty staple for over a century, captivating users worldwide with its versatility and comforting texture. But what happens when you apply this iconic product to only half your face every night for a week? I decided to put the beloved Nivea cream to the test to uncover its true impact beyond just a moisturizer.
How i tested the Nivea cream on half my face
Each evening for seven days, I followed my usual skincare routine but saved the final step exclusively for the left side of my face: after double cleansing, serum, and eye cream, I slathered on a generous layer of Nivea classic cream as a nightly mask on just half my face.
Admittedly, I was curious but skeptical. Could a product that’s remained largely unchanged since its release in 1911 really hold up against the flood of new skincare innovations?
The immediate effects on my skin
The results were quicker than I expected. Every morning, the side treated with Nivea felt distinctly more hydrated and noticeably smoother compared to the untreated side. The cream’s rich, enveloping texture seemed to lock in moisture throughout the night — an essential period when the skin’s cell renewal peeks.
From my experience, there’s something comforting about waking up to skin that doesn’t feel tight or dry, especially after a long day. You can almost tell your skin is getting the nourishment it craves during those quiet nighttime hours.
Why slugging might not be for everyone
This method, known as slugging, has gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness in boosting hydration. However, I found that using the cream every single night on my face was a bit too much in the long run.
While the extra moisture was wonderful, I noticed small breakouts starting to appear around my T-zone—especially since I have combination skin prone to occasional blemishes. For people with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin, slugging nightly may clog pores and lead to unwanted acne or irritation.
In my opinion, applying the Nivea cream as a mask about once a week or even biweekly gives you the benefits of rich hydration without the risk of congested skin.
What this experience taught me about skincare
Trying this half-face challenge taught me a key skincare lesson: even the most timeless classics need to be used thoughtfully and in tune with your skin’s unique needs.
Nivea’s famous blue jar isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a genuinely effective moisturizer that works wonders when used properly. But no matter how much a product promises miracles, your skin’s health always depends on balance and personal care.
Everyone’s skin reacts differently to various products and routines. Sometimes, less is more, and even something as simple as adjusting application frequency can make a huge difference.
If you’re curious about giving Nivea’s classic cream a try, remember that moderation is key—especially if you lean toward oily or sensitive skin. And don’t hesitate to test products on a small area first to see how your skin responds.
Have you ever experimented with applying cream to just one side of your face to compare results? What’s your go-to method for keeping your skin hydrated overnight? Share your experiences and thoughts below—I’d love to hear what worked for you!
I used to have dry skond on my lower part of my face And since I have started applying this cream daily before bedtone, this condition is controlled and almost disappeared.
I’ve used Nivea since I was 15 I’m 76 now. I’ve been told by loads of people I have fantastic skin.
Me too, since l was 15 and now 72. Cheers to nivea
I have been using Nivea Cream for 50+years . Every day .I dont have wrinkles and people say i havent aged.Im 68 and looknthe same as when i was 40.My daughter uses it too.She does not look 43..Its the best.
Hi. How do you use it? Day and night? Thanks
both hun
morning and before bed x
I use blue tin Nivea. The best
I agree have always used Nivea. Am 80 and told I look 60 ish
I’ve used Nivea since a teenager amazing clear complexion I’m 64 now and still have clear skin. Few wrinkles but hey !!!!
My mother used this Nivea – ALL her Life & her complexion remained wrinkle -free & young looking . I’ve tried lots of more expensive creams – & decided Nivea is better !
Love this i remember writing about this at school to do with memories and remember saying the smell of this cream my mum used it and she was about to go in hospital i was sat on her knree may be about 4 i dont know. But i brought this up around the age of 12 at upper school, my mums skin is beautiful at 78, I might start buying it again. Ill never forget the teacher mentioning it. Why i remember it. Lovely thick cream.
My gran swore by giveaway both day and night, can’t say she looked young for her age but her skin always looked healthy… I always have a giant tub of it and sometimes treat my skin to an overnight slugging if my pillow cases are due to be changed… it makes a fantastic gently makeup remover too
I have used Nivea for almost 70 years. I even carried it daily to school in my Peggy purse. My skin has hardly changed in all these years and I have never had a spot or dry skin in my life. I am now almost 81 and shall continue the cheapest, and by far the best, daily beauty routine. Thankyou so much.
Best cream ever. I use it day n night.
My mother used Nivea all her life and her skin was great. Me I used expensive stuff, it was good, but now I use Nivea in the white tub because it is better under make up and I love it.
I would say without a doubt the blue tin nivea is amazing,ive used super expensive skincare, and it does not come close to the good old nivea.
I was burnt with hot water as a child of 4 and used Nivea blue tin since 1972.Im a man nearly 58 and have few wrinkles and look 20 years younger than my age so I’m told, love the cream used twice a day forever
I love Nivea in the blue tin.. I h
ave used it for 61 yrs I am 73.My 9 sisters used it and the ones still with us still do. All have lovely skin and look younger than they are.
It’s my first night I’m using the blue Nivea tin and I have a combination skin and I struggle to the best face cream…so I’m looking forward to a blue tin…
My mother used Nivea since 1950 but she said the formula must have changed around 1970/80. It did not feel the same as earlier but she kept using it. She had a very soft and smooth face.
I love my blue nivea tin. After being badly sunburnt at about 20 years old nivea was applied. So soothing and I never peeled! I have used this regularly ever since. .. 50 years and counting. I don’t bother with sunscreen lotion. Nivea does it for me always for out in the sun and any time on the face. I love the smell of Nivea creme too.
My hsband is 84..Non smoker, we have been together 35 years , i am 20 years his junior. I call him ‘nivea man’, as his complexion is so good and only a few small lines near his eyes. People never believe his age due to his skin texture. My skin is too sensitive on face, but i do use Nivea for my body. It always feels hydrated & comfortable after use. Great product.
Have used nivea blue pot for 52yrs and wouldn’t use anything else best mostutiser around.
Nivea is amazing. It reminds me of being little. My grandma would go mad if we used anything else but Nivea and oil of ulay
I use Nivea Blue tin Creme… Im 59 years old and have been told that like look like I am 40..
I apply the cream morning and night.. Throughout the day when needed..
It’s better than all the expensive creams.. I use it as an eye cream too.. !!!