FAQ

Do you have specific questions regarding our products, applications, skin, ingredients or our company in general? We look forward to answering them in detail and publish the most frequently asked questions in this section. The answers are regularly updated as the state of science, technology and dermatology is constantly developing and changing. We trust that we can help you and your skin with this information.

  • What is the difference between chemical and mineral UV filters?

    Louis Widmer uses exclusively organic UV filters. They enable lightweight, pleasant formulations that spread evenly across the skin and leave no white residue. Studies have shown that sunscreen products with a pleasant skin feel are more likely to be applied regularly and in sufficient amounts. In contrast, products that feel sticky, are difficult to spread or leave a white cast are often applied too sparingly. As a result, the actual level of sun protection may be significantly lower than the SPF stated on the packaging. The effectiveness of a sunscreen depends not only on the UV filters used, but also on the overall formulation and the amount applied. Our formulations are designed to combine a high level of protection with a pleasant skin feel, helping to encourage regular and adequate use. All Louis Widmer sunscreens meet the European requirements for UVA protection and carry the UVA logo in a circle. This symbol indicates balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Both UVA and UVB radiation can damage the skin and contribute to the development of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and also play a major role in premature skin ageing caused by sun exposure. For this reason, broad-spectrum protection against both types of UV radiation is essential.

  • Does vitamin A in skincare require additional UV protection?

    The vitamin A derivative we use most frequently (retinyl palmitate) is gentle and does not require UV protection. For retinol, application in the evening and a high level of UV protection during the day are recommended.

  • Are Louis Widmer products vegan?

    Almost all Louis Widmer products are vegan. A few contain beeswax.

  • Why is vitamin A important for the skin — and how does it work?

    Vitamin A plays an important role in skin renewal and function. It can be absorbed in two ways: Through diet: vitamin A occurs exclusively in animal-based foods such as liver, fish, eggs and dairy products. Plant-based foods, on the other hand, contain provitamin A in the form of carotenoids, especially beta-carotene. Good sources are yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, apricots and mangoes. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach also contain a lot of beta-carotene, though its orange colour is masked by chlorophyll. Through skincare products: vitamin A derivatives such as retinol or retinyl palmitate act specifically in the skin. They support cell renewal, promote collagen synthesis, regulate keratinisation and can normalise sebaceous gland function. This contributes to a smoother complexion and helps reduce visible signs of skin ageing.

  • Do sunscreens affect vitamin D production?

    It is well known that high-SPF sunscreens can reduce vitamin D synthesis in the skin, as they absorb or reflect part of the UVB radiation needed for vitamin D formation. Under everyday conditions, however, correct sunscreen use generally does not lead to a clinically relevant vitamin D deficiency. Sunscreens are essential to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, such as sunburn, photoageing and skin cancer. For people at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, having vitamin D levels checked can be worthwhile. If necessary, adequate supply can be ensured through vitamin-D-rich foods or dietary supplements.

  • What is the Biostimulators Complex and how does it work on the skin?

    The Louis Widmer Biostimulators Complex is an exclusive active complex made of nine carefully selected amino acids — the building blocks of collagen (INCI: Collagen Amino Acids). It was developed by Louis Widmer and is now a signature ingredient in most of our care products. The complex originally was based on amino acids from human placental tissue; for many years now, however, these have been produced synthetically. This ensures consistently high quality, and the complex meets the highest ethical and regulatory requirements. The Biostimulators Complex supports the skin on several levels: it strengthens the integrity of the skin barrier and enhances its protective function against environmental influences. At the same time, it stimulates cell vitality and supports natural cell renewal. It also promotes the skin's own collagen synthesis, helping to keep the skin firm and elastic. Even after a single application, the Biostimulin Complex intensively supplies the skin with moisture. These diverse effects have been confirmed both in a human 3D full-skin model and in a use study.

  • Does Louis Widmer use lanolin (wool wax)?

    Lanolin (wool wax) is not used at Louis Widmer.

  • Why do small residues sometimes form when I apply my skincare (pilling)?

    The drawback of gel-based formulas can, in rare cases, be the phenomenon of "rubbing off" (pilling) that you describe. Depending on skin type, fine, soft particles may form on the skin. This only happens, however, when other products are used in addition to the cream in question. Make sure to apply your day cream or sunscreen to cleansed skin in the morning and let it absorb well. Only afterwards should any further cosmetics be applied.

  • What exactly is Actibiome PE?

    Actibiome PE is a prebiotic active ingredient that rebalances the skin flora to reduce redness and unevenness. Actibiome has been shown to restore the balance of the skin flora after one week of use. A recent study demonstrated that Actibiome rebalances the skin's pH value and reduces diffuse redness caused by irritation.

  • Are antiperspirants containing aluminium salts safe?

    Deodorants containing aluminium salts are regularly the subject of discussion. The safety of aluminium in cosmetic products was reassessed in 2023 by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Commission. According to the current scientific assessment, the use of deodorants with or without aluminium salts is considered safe when used as intended (see also EU 2026/909). Deodorants with and without aluminium salts both provide reliable protection against body odour but differ in how they work. Deodorants with aluminium salts (antiperspirants) Aluminium salts help reduce perspiration at the skin's surface while also helping to prevent the formation of body odour. They provide particularly effective protection for people who perspire more heavily. Deodorants without aluminium salts Rather than reducing perspiration, they help inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria. Odour-neutralising ingredients provide a long-lasting feeling of freshness. They are a suitable choice for those who prefer to avoid aluminium salts. All Louis Widmer deodorants are alcohol-free, contain high-quality odour-neutralising ingredients and are well tolerated by the skin. They are also available in a fragrance-free version.

  • Are the hydraderm and proderm Eye Contour Gels also suitable for use with eyelash extensions?

    Both Eye Contour Gels are water-based and are also suitable for use with eyelash extensions.

  • What skincare tips are there for rosacea-prone skin?

    Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs mainly on the face. This chronic condition can be severe and typically first appears in those affected between the ages of 30 and 40, though sometimes earlier. Fair-skinned people are frequently affected. Couperose shows similar symptoms and is often described as an early stage of rosacea; the two terms are often used interchangeably. The exact causes of couperose and rosacea are largely unknown. However, it appears that several factors play a role, such as genetic factors, a fair skin type and chronic UV exposure. The condition can worsen with the use of greasy or irritating products, as well as with long-term treatment with cortisone creams. Avoid triggers that can worsen symptoms. These include alcohol consumption, sauna visits, spicy or hot food, nicotine, hot drinks or physical exertion. Knowledge of the correct skincare for couperose and rosacea is very complex. Many patients suffer from very sensitive skin that often burns or feels irritated. It is very important to use mild products. In addition, there are special care products that can slow or prevent the progression of rosacea. The light Louis Widmer skinexpert Anti-Redness Emulsions for day and night effectively reduce skin redness with vessel-strengthening, soothing and balancing active ingredients. The Day Emulsion also offers high UV protection. For the cleansing routine, the purederm Eye Make-Up Remover Waterproof, the Cleansing Milk or the Micellar Cleansing Lotion are suitable. In any case, it is advisable to seek the advice of a doctor.

  • Why can deodorants cause stains and discolouration?

    Deodorants with an antiperspirant effect contain aluminium chlorohydrate as their main active ingredient. If this compound penetrates fabric, it can cause stains on certain materials. To avoid this, it is advisable to let the deodorant dry well after application. The deodorant should also be applied sparingly so that it does not come into direct contact with clothing. In cases of heavy sweating, the deodorant can also be applied in the evening before bed. Our antiperspirants remain effective for at least 24 hours. Should stains appear on white fabric despite all precautions, they can be treated with bleach in an attempt to remove them. Alternatively, we recommend our Deo Roll-on without aluminium salts. This cannot cause stains, though it does not have an antiperspirant effect.

  • Why doesn't Louis Widmer use odour-masking substances in unscented products?

    We do not use masking agents in unscented products. Instead, we take care to use ingredients that are as odour-neutral as possible.

  • How does Louis Widmer select the raw materials for its products?

    Louis Widmer SA selects the raw materials for its products with the greatest care. Plant-based, partly plant-based and synthetic raw materials are all used. In doing so, we pay attention to animal welfare (cruelty-free and vegan products), conservation of natural resources, environmental protection and the optimal tolerability of the finished formula. Louis Widmer stands for effective products with the best tolerability. That's why we use the optimal raw materials depending on the desired effect. The range spans from natural almond oil to synthetic vitamin A.

  • Do Louis Widmer products also protect against blue light (HEV)?

    Whether the high-energy visible light emitted by screens (HEV, also called blue light) damages the skin to a relevant extent in everyday life has not yet been conclusively established. While studies show that HEV light can influence biological processes in the skin and trigger oxidative stress, the radiation intensity of smartphones, tablets or computer screens is significantly lower than that of sunlight. According to current scientific understanding, blue light exposure from screens therefore plays a minor role for the skin. Both UV radiation and visible light can contribute to the formation of free radicals in the skin. This is why numerous Louis Widmer products contain vitamin E (tocopheryl acetate). As an antioxidant, vitamin E helps neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress. The main focus is on protecting against UV-related oxidative stress, though vitamin E can also capture free radicals generated by visible light. The proderm Day Cream UV 30 Rich additionally contains Dragosine®. This active ingredient supports collagen synthesis and helps protect the skin from the negative effects of UV radiation as well as infrared and visible light.

  • Do Louis Widmer products contain hormonally active substances?

    Louis Widmer products do not contain hormonally active substances. We closely follow scientific developments and adapt our products quickly and reliably should any safety concerns arise regarding an ingredient.

  • In which countries are Louis Widmer products available?

    As of July 2026: We distribute our products in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as through selected partners in the following countries: Finland, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Ukraine and Moldova. You can also order our products online.

  • Where does the collagen used by Louis Widmer come from?

    The collagen we use is produced exclusively synthetically. No animal or human raw materials are used.

  • Are Louis Widmer products comedogenic?

    Louis Widmer generally uses only raw materials known to be non-comedogenic or only slightly comedogenic. This was given particular attention when developing the skinappeal product line, since these products are used on blemish-prone and acne-prone skin.

  • Why do Louis Widmer products contain preservatives?

    More and more skincare products are marketed as preservative-free. However, preservatives serve an important purpose: they help ensure the microbiological safety of a product throughout its period of use. Without an appropriate preservation system, bacteria, yeasts or moulds can grow in a product after it has been opened and affect its quality. For this reason, careful selection of preservatives and using the lowest effective concentration are essential. Louis Widmer uses only preservatives with a good safety and skin tolerance profile and only in the amount necessary to ensure reliable product protection. Preservatives known for a high allergy risk are not used. Products without preservatives generally rely on other approaches, such as self-preserving formulations or ingredients that contribute to microbiological stability without being classified as preservatives under cosmetic regulations. Self-preserving products may, for example, have a pH that is unfavourable for microbial growth or a very low water content. All Louis Widmer oils are formulated without preservatives.

  • Can Louis Widmer products also be used by men?

    In principle, men's skin has the same structure as women's skin. It is somewhat thicker, however, and produces more sebum. But men's skin also loses collagen with the ageing process. Skin needs such as dryness, hyperpigmentation, blemishes and wrinkles occur regardless of gender. All Louis Widmer products can be used by men just as by women. What matters are individual skin needs and preferences.

  • Are Louis Widmer products free of microplastics?

    Louis Widmer is aware of its responsibility towards the environment and continuously works to further improve the environmental profile of its products. Solid microplastics were removed from all formulations several years ago. For example, our exfoliating products now contain only biodegradable polycaprolactone granules instead of polyethylene particles. In addition, we continuously evaluate whether other ingredients, such as certain synthetic polymers, can be replaced with suitable alternatives, provided this is technologically feasible and maintains the high quality, efficacy and skin tolerance of our products. Products marked with the Clean Beauty icon on our website are free from mineral oils, silicones and microplastics – both solid and liquid.

  • How does Louis Widmer ensure that its packaging is sustainable and environmentally friendly?

    At Louis Widmer, the focus of our packaging strategy is on recyclability, as it is the foundation of a functioning circular economy for packaging. Already, 95% of our product packaging is fully recyclable. We are continuously working on sustainable solutions for the remaining 5%. Additional measures include the use of mono-materials to simplify sorting and recycling, the increased use of recycled materials from post-consumer and post-industrial sources, and the reduction of packaging material, for example through lighter tube designs and smaller caps. Louis Widmer also reduces paper consumption by making package inserts easily accessible in digital form. Our secondary packaging remains 100% recyclable. Recyclability and FSC certification are clearly identified with the corresponding labels on our packaging. As a partner of the Swiss Recycling initiative "Drehscheibe Kreislaufwirtschaft", Louis Widmer is also committed to promoting the responsible use of resources beyond its own operations.

  • Does Louis Widmer use palm oil?

    Palm oil is not used in any of our products. We require certificates/confirmations of origin for natural substances, active ingredients and auxiliary materials from all our raw material and active ingredient suppliers. This also applies to controversial natural-substance derivatives.

  • What does the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on a product mean?

    Since 2003, cosmetics regulations have required that products with a shelf life of more than 30 months carry a "Period After Opening" (PAO) symbol showing an open jar. Within this period, the product must be safe to use — and continue to offer consumers the best possible performance.

  • Are Louis Widmer products paraben-free?

    Since 2014, all our dermocosmetic skincare products have been paraben-free.

  • Why does Louis Widmer use paraffins in some products?

    Mineral oils (paraffins) are deliberately used in some fat-based care creams in amounts of 1 to 3%. Mineral oils have an occlusive effect, meaning they form a protective film on the skin and reduce water loss. On damaged, flaky or very dry skin, mineral oils help limit water loss and thus support skin regeneration. Paraffins and petroleum jelly have been successfully used in dermatology for over 100 years as a base for skincare products and dermatological medicines. They are skin-neutral, do not trigger allergies, and have only positive effects on the skin in low concentrations. We use paraffins mainly in some products of the remederm Dry Skin line for dry, very dry and atopic-eczema-prone skin. Impurities in paraffins repeatedly give rise to discussion, since a possible cancer risk has been suspected. Louis Widmer uses only the purest, pharmaceutical-grade quality in its products, so the impurities mentioned can be ruled out.

  • What is the difference between scented and unscented Louis Widmer products?

    Louis Widmer generally offers a scented and an unscented variant of the same product, since some customers like scented products while others prefer no fragrance or even react allergically to fragrance ingredients. This gives customers a choice. In terms of efficacy, the products are identical. Both product variants contain the same active ingredients at the same concentration.

  • What is the difference between the purederm Face Peeling and the skinappeal Peeling?

    The two Louis Widmer products purederm Face Peeling and skinappeal Peeling work differently. The purederm Face Peeling has an abrasive effect, meaning dead skin cells are removed mechanically by the exfoliating particles in the product. It can be used daily, as it exfoliates very gently. The skinappeal Peeling has a dual effect: alongside exfoliating particles, it also contains fruit acids that provide a chemical peel. It is particularly suitable for blemished, acne-prone skin and can be used three to four times a week, depending on skin needs.

  • Does Louis Widmer use balsam of Peru in its products?

    Balsam of Peru is not used in our products.

  • Do Louis Widmer products contain PFAS?

    None of the Louis Widmer products contain PFAS. We have never used this class of substances.

  • What pH value do Louis Widmer products have?

    As a company committed to dermatology, we set all skincare products to a skin-friendly pH value of 5 to 7, corresponding to the skin's slightly acidic pH. Exceptions are special preparations that need to be set to be more acidic (e.g. disinfecting or exfoliating products for treating blemished/acne-prone skin, or for a radiant complexion). For fat-based night creams, or some rich creams in the Remederm line, the pH value cannot be measured directly, as these are water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions in which the fat phase is on the outside. The pH value can only be measured in the water phase. For these products, the water phase is set to a slightly acidic pH of around 6 during production.

  • Can the proderm Eye Contour Cream also be used for scar care?

    The Eye Contour Cream is a cosmetic product. For this reason, it is not officially marketed as a scar-care product. However, the eye cream is often used for scar treatment, as the cream's high vitamin A content has a positive effect. The scar becomes less noticeable, lighter and less raised. The cream is applied starting 2 weeks after suture removal, for up to 6 months.

  • Which Louis Widmer products are suitable for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis?

    The Louis Widmer remederm Dry Skin line was specially developed for the treatment of very dry skin and atopic dermatitis. All products are dermatologically tested and most are also suitable for children. The remederm Dry Skin Body Cream, Creme Fluid with prebiotics, Face Cream and Body Milk 5% Urea are particularly well suited for eczematous, stressed and damaged skin. The remederm products are also excellent for psoriasis. Once acute inflammation has subsided, Body Milk 5% Urea can be used. The remederm Dry Skin Body Milk 10% Urea is particularly suitable for itching and flaky skin. For very dry skin, it is advisable to apply one of the creams mentioned above after showering with remederm Dry Skin Shower Oil. The remederm Dry Skin creams and emulsions are also available fragrance-free.

  • How can Louis Widmer packaging be recycled?

    Disposal of plastic packaging is regulated differently depending on the country and region. Please dispose of the packaging in accordance with local recycling and waste regulations. Where plastic packaging is collected separately, it should be placed in the appropriate collection system. If no separate collection is available, disposal is via general waste. In many countries, this is used for energy recovery, generating electricity and/or heat during incineration. Louis Widmer continuously develops its packaging further to improve its recyclability and optimise the use of materials in line with the circular economy. Our goal is to design packaging that can be recycled as efficiently as possible wherever suitable collection and recycling systems exist. At the same time, expanding the corresponding collection and recycling infrastructure is an important prerequisite for keeping valuable materials in circulation.

  • Are Louis Widmer's rinse-off products biodegradable?

    When developing our rinse-off products, we place great importance on good biodegradability of the ingredients used. Of course, they meet applicable legal requirements. We do not use substances that are poorly biodegradable and whose use is legally restricted or prohibited.

  • Can the remederm Oil Bath be used in a whirlpool/hot tub?

    The remederm Oil Bath is generally also suitable for whirlpools/hot tubs. Since it contains nourishing lipids, residues can form that require extensive cleaning of the whirlpool. We therefore recommend using products specially developed for whirlpools instead.

  • Where do the raw materials Louis Widmer uses come from?

    As of March 2026: 3/4 of raw materials come from Europe (incl. Switzerland). The remainder comes from Asia and the Americas, with China accounting for only 2%.

  • Can Louis Widmer products be used during pregnancy?

    Status: July 2026 As of July 2026, all products in the Louis Widmer cosmetic range can be used during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. The only exceptions are certain prescription pharmaceutical products, particularly those containing retinoic acid.

  • Why does Selftan have a characteristic smell?

    The self-tanning active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) has a characteristic scent of its own, which some people perceive as slightly "burnt". This scent is a natural property of the active ingredient and completely normal.

  • Is there an age restriction for sun protection products?

    From the perspective of the UV filters used, there are no general age restrictions for sun protection products. The choice of UV filters is based on applicable legal requirements and the safety assessments of the respective countries. Regardless of this, the following applies: infants should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Their skin is not yet fully developed, and they cannot regulate their body temperature as well as older children or adults. The best protection for babies is shade, protective clothing, a sun hat, and avoiding intense midday sun. Sunscreens should only be used on areas of skin that cannot be adequately protected by clothing or shade.

  • Does Louis Widmer conduct or commission animal testing?

    Neither raw materials nor finished products for Louis Widmer's cosmetic products are tested on animals. Louis Widmer does not commission animal testing and does not have such testing carried out by third parties either. Our suppliers are carefully selected, and we maintain long-standing partnerships with them. Most are based in Europe and are subject to applicable European regulations, including the ban on animal testing for cosmetic products and their ingredients, where applicable. Louis Widmer does not sell its cosmetic products in countries where animal testing for cosmetics is legally required. The safety and tolerability of our products have always been assessed through recognised studies under dermatological supervision on volunteer subjects. Both skin tolerability and, depending on the product, efficacy are examined. Most Louis Widmer products contain exclusively synthetic and plant-based raw materials. A small number of products contain beeswax or chitosan of marine origin. The chitosan used to date will be replaced by vegan chitosan from autumn 2026.

  • Why is urea an effective active ingredient for dry skin?

    Urea-containing care products are particularly suitable for dry and very dry skin. Urea is a natural component of the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). It binds water in the stratum corneum, improves skin hydration and supports the skin barrier. This makes skin feel more supple and reduces feelings of dryness. Using urea does not thin the skin. On the contrary: through improved hydration and a strengthened barrier, the skin becomes more resilient, and its natural protective function is supported. The urea used in our products is produced synthetically. This process has been known for almost 200 years and enables the production of a highly pure, consistently high-quality active ingredient. Only highly pure urea, meeting the corresponding quality requirements, is used for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

  • How environmentally compatible are the UV filters used in sunscreens?

    The environmental impact of UV filters is being intensively studied scientifically. For both organic (chemical) and mineral UV filters, ongoing research examines how they behave under real environmental conditions. Based on current knowledge, no blanket judgement can be made about the environmental compatibility of individual filters or filter groups. What is undisputed, however, is the health benefit of effective sun protection: UV radiation can cause sunburn, prematurely age the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. The benefit of effective sun protection therefore clearly outweighs the currently known environmental risks.

  • Why can sunscreens sting in the eyes?

    Many sunscreens can cause a stinging sensation if they get into the eyes. It is therefore advisable to avoid the eye area as much as possible when applying, and to also wear sunglasses. These protect not only the eyes but also the sensitive skin around the eyes from UV radiation. For use on the face and around the eyes, Louis Widmer recommends the specially developed products Sun Protection Face UV 30 and UV 50+, Sun Protection Kids UV 50+ (from 1 year), and Face Sun Protection Sport UV 50. These products are characterised by clinically confirmed high eye tolerability. Face Sun Protection Sport UV 50 was formulated to run into the eyes as little as possible, even during physical activity.

  • How do sunscreens work, and what do "water-resistant" and "extra water-resistant" mean?

    Sun protection takes effect immediately after application. Nevertheless, it is advisable to wait a few minutes before getting dressed or swimming, until the product has absorbed well. This reduces the risk of stains on clothing and helps the sun protection adhere better to the skin. The often-cited waiting time of 20 minutes is a guideline value. It comes from the standardised method used to determine the SPF, in which protective efficacy is measured 15 to 20 minutes after application. It does not mean, however, that sun protection only becomes effective after this time. Sunscreens should be reapplied regularly and in sufficient amounts, especially after swimming, heavy sweating, or towel-drying. Water, sweat and friction gradually reduce the protective film on the skin. The term "water-resistant" is internationally standardised. A water-resistant sunscreen must still retain at least 50% of its originally determined SPF after two 20-minute bathing cycles. For "extra water-resistant" products, this also applies after four 20-minute bathing cycles. Nevertheless, sun protection should be reapplied after every swim and towel-dry to maintain protection. Sweat-resistant sun protection products are particularly suitable for sporting activities, as they adhere better to the skin and are therefore less likely to run into the eyes.

  • How does the skin's natural tan develop?

    UVB and UVA radiation trigger different reactions in the skin. UVB radiation stimulates the formation of the skin pigment melanin in melanocytes. This results in a delayed tan that develops over about three to six days and lasts longer. UVA radiation oxidises melanin that is already present, causing rapid, visible darkening of the skin. This immediate tan appears quickly but also fades faster. Melanin is a natural protective mechanism of the skin. The pigment is distributed in the epidermal cells above the cell nuclei and helps protect the genetic material (DNA) from UV-related damage. This inherent protection is limited, however, and does not replace effective sun protection.

  • How do I correctly combine day care and sun protection?

    Always apply your day care before sun protection, so both products can develop their optimal effect. For daily use, day care products with integrated UV protection are particularly practical, as they combine care and sun protection in one step. For longer periods outdoors, intense sun exposure, or sporting activities, a dedicated sun protection product with an SPF suited to skin type and situation is recommended. For sport or swimming, a water-resistant or extra-water-resistant product is especially advisable. Louis Widmer offers sun protection products for different needs.

  • Why can sun protection products turn fabrics yellow?

    Yellowish discolouration of fabrics from sun protection products is a well-known phenomenon. It can occur when certain UV filters come into contact with textiles and react with metal ions, particularly iron in water, during washing. This can create yellowish stains that can be difficult to fully remove with normal washing. To prevent discolouration, it is advisable to let sun protection products absorb well before getting dressed and to avoid direct contact with textiles where possible. Discolouration that has already occurred can often be removed with a pre-treatment using an approximately 1% citric acid solution. Apply the solution to the affected areas and leave it to act for around 30 minutes. The garment can then be washed as usual. If stains are still visible after the first treatment, the application can be repeated.

  • Which pigment spots is the Pigmacare® line suitable for?

    The Pigmacare® line was specifically developed for the cosmetic treatment of various forms of hyperpigmentation. It offers a gentle yet effective alternative to medical active ingredients such as hydroquinone — without their possible side effects. Thanks to the combination of alpha-arbutin, niacinamide and antioxidant ingredients, it contributes to a more even skin tone while also supporting the skin's natural regeneration.

  • Can freckles be reduced?

    Freckles are genetically determined and arise from increased melanin production as a result of UV exposure. They can be lightened with cosmetic active ingredients or dermatological treatments, but generally do not disappear permanently. Without consistent sun protection, they usually reappear with renewed UV exposure.

  • Is the Pigmacare® line also suitable for darker skin types?

    The nutriderm Pigmacare® line is generally suitable for all skin types and skin tones. Particularly for darker skin types, which more often tend towards hyperpigmentation such as acne marks or post-inflammatory discolouration, this combination of active ingredients can be beneficial. Pigmacare® works at several points in melanin formation: niacinamide reduces the transfer of melanosomes into the upper layers of skin, while other active ingredients inhibit tyrosinase activity and thus reduce melanin production. This allows pigment spots to gradually lighten and the skin tone to appear more even. Since darker skin can react particularly sensitively to UV radiation with renewed hyperpigmentation, daily use of a high-SPF sunscreen is an important part of treatment. For a lasting result, Louis Widmer therefore recommends combining it with a day care product with high UV protection.

  • From what age is the use of Pigmacare® Serum recommended? (for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

    There is no age restriction.

  • Can Advanced Repair Cream be used during an atopic dermatitis or psoriasis flare-up?

    As of July 2026: thanks to its soothing, barrier-strengthening formulation, Advanced Repair Cream is well suited as supportive care for heavily irritated skin prone to atopic dermatitis or psoriasis. For acute eczema, cortisone-containing preparations are generally used. Only once the eczema is no longer weeping can replenishing products such as the Repair Cream be used for further care.

  • How should Clear & Dry Sun Spray UV 50 be stored?

    The aerosol cans of Clear & Dry Sun Spray UV 50 have been tested up to 50°C. For safety reasons, however, they should still be protected from direct sunlight and temperatures above 50°C. Do not leave the product in a heated vehicle or in direct sun for extended periods.

  • Why might my eyes sting after applying Sun Protection UV 50+?

    Face Sun Protection SPF 30 and SPF 50+, as well as all Louis Widmer eye care products, have been ophthalmologically tested for tolerability. Nevertheless, direct contact with the eyes should be avoided as much as possible, since the eyes can react sensitively to foreign substances. For sporting activities or heavy sweating, Face Sun Protection SPORT UV 50 is particularly recommended. Thanks to its extra-water-resistant formulation, it adheres especially well to the skin and is less likely to run into the eyes.

  • Is the All Day 50+ Lip Care also suitable as protection against the cold?

    This product was not specifically developed for use in extreme cold conditions. However, it is generally well suited for winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding in sub-zero temperatures. There is long-standing, positive practical experience with this use.

  • Do Louis Widmer products contain PFAS?

    Louis Widmer does not use PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in its products. Our formulations contain neither fluorine compounds nor fluoropolymers. These substance groups have never been used by Louis Widmer.

  • Which sun protection is suitable for rosacea?

    For daily care, the Anti-Redness Day Cream with SPF 30 offers ideal protection and comfort: it combines effective sun protection with targeted active ingredients against redness and rosacea. For intense sun exposure, such as a ski weekend, we recommend the Gel with SPF 50. It offers high sun protection and impresses with its light texture, specifically tailored to the needs of rosacea sufferers.

  • Is Kids Sun Protection UV 50+ gluten-free and suitable for young children?

    Kids Sun Protection UV 50+ is gluten-free. The emulsifier Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate it contains is made from the amino acid glutamic acid but does not contain gluten. The product is also applied exclusively to the skin and poses no risk for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. It can be used as intended on young children. Infants, however, should generally not be exposed to direct sunlight.

  • How does dermocosmetics work?

    The efficacy of a cosmetic product is not based on a single ingredient, but on the carefully developed overall formulation. Only the interplay of active ingredients, antioxidants, emollients, lipids and other ingredients determines how a product acts on the skin. Not all ingredients are meant to penetrate the skin. Some, such as long-chain hyaluronic acid, UV filters or prebiotics, exert their effect mainly at the skin's surface. Other active ingredients, such as vitamins A, C or E, are meant to reach the upper layers of the skin to exert their caring, skin-supporting effect there. Cosmetic products are designed to act locally in the skin. They are not intended to be absorbed into the bloodstream in relevant amounts or to have a systemic effect. This is why the penetration depth of a single ingredient is not a quality criterion for a cosmetic product. What matters is rather the demonstrated effect of the finished formulation on the skin. The efficacy of cosmetic products is therefore examined using objective skin parameters. These include, for example, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin roughness, skin elasticity, skin firmness, and the reduction of wrinkles or pigment spots — depending on the product's focus. Tolerability, too, depends not just on individual active ingredients but on the entire formulation. Concentration, pH value and the combination of ingredients influence both efficacy and skin tolerability. For example, skin-soothing ingredients or an optimised formulation can significantly reduce the irritation potential of certain active ingredients, such as AHA acids. Conversely, individual ingredients can influence each other or change in their effect. For this reason, Louis Widmer always tests the finished formulation, not just the individual raw materials. Skin tolerability is examined in dermatologically supervised use and tolerability studies. Depending on the product, efficacy studies are additionally conducted to demonstrate benefits under real-world conditions. Developing an effective, well-tolerated dermocosmetic formulation requires extensive scientific expertise as well as many years of experience in formulation development.

  • Why does the All Day 50+ Lip Care now appear yellowish?

    The new formula is based on a modernised UV filter system without octocrylene and without titanium dioxide. Since titanium dioxide gave the previous formula its snow-white colour, the new formula now appears slightly yellowish. This colour change is purely visual and has no effect on the quality, efficacy or UV protection of the product. At the same time, the formulation meets current regulatory and technological standards.

  • When will all day creams with UV protection be octocrylene-free?

    By the end of 2026, all relevant formulations will be octocrylene-free.

  • Does Louis Widmer Anti-Dandruff Shampoo contain gluten or nut-based ingredients?

    The anti-dandruff shampoo contains hydrolysed wheat protein. Although this ingredient is derived from wheat, the product is applied exclusively to the hair and scalp and, when used as intended, poses no risk to people with coeliac disease. All other Louis Widmer shampoos are free from wheat-based and nut-based ingredients.

  • Can remederm Fluid Body Cream also be used on babies?

    Remederm Fluid Body Cream is one of the products that Louis Widmer also recommends for babies. It is particularly gentle on the skin and is suitable for the daily care of sensitive, dry and stressed skin – including that of babies and young children.

  • Is it safe to use 10% urea on children?

    In principle, a 10% urea cream can also be used on children. However, the child’s age, skin condition and individual tolerance are key factors. On healthy, dry skin, 10% urea is generally well tolerated. On inflamed, irritated or scratched skin, urea may cause a temporary burning or tingling sensation. In such cases, it is advisable to start with a milder treatment containing a lower concentration of urea or one without urea. For young children, or if you are unsure, you should consult a doctor before use.