It is with great sadness and deep sorrow that we bid farewell to Professor Dr. Klaus-Peter Wittern, an outstanding figure in cosmetic science, a visionary researcher, a dedicated association representative, and a valued colleague, who passed away on June 29, 2026.
With his passing, the international cosmetics and detergent industry has lost one of its most influential scientists, innovators, and bridge-builder between science, industry, and professional societies.
Professor Wittern was born in 1950. After completing his study of Physics at the University of Hamburg, he earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry in 1977. That same year he joined Beiersdorf AG and remained with the company for nearly four decades until his retirement in 2014. During this time, he had an outstanding influence on the company’s development. As a scientist, innovator, and long-time head of Research & Development, he embodied scientific excellence, curiosity, progress, and the courage to break new ground. His name is associated with significant product innovations, including the introduction of coenzyme Q10 as an active ingredient in skin care and the development of the NIVEA Black & White deodorant—one of the most successful product launches in Beiersdorf’s history.
Many colleagues remember him as an inspiring scientist full of energy, a visionary leader, and a passionate mentor who would inspire others with new ideas. His deep connection to Beiersdorf’s brands, products, and people, as well as his tireless commitment to advancing science and innovation, have left a lasting mark on the company.
In 2003, following the successful completion of his post doctoral degree, he was awarded the academic title of professor by the University of Hamburg. His scientific work is reflected in numerous publications, patents, and innovations that have had a lasting impact on modern skin care.
In addition to his industrial research, Professor Wittern was particularly committed to advancing dermatological and cosmetic science. He played a key role in the development and establishment of the Foundation for Skin Physiology at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology , and Allergology at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. This commitment underscores his dedication to bridging the gap between basic research and industrial application for the benefit of consumers.
Professor Wittern always combined his scientific expertise with an extraordinary commitment to volunteer work. He joined the German Society for Scientific and Applied Cosmetics (DGK e. V.) as early as 1978. From 1982 to 1987, he was a member of the “Skin Care Products” section. He served on the DGK’s Executive Board beginning in 1994 and led the society as president from 2001 to 2005. With great dedication, he shaped the society’s scientific goals and content and played a defining role in its development over many years. In 2013, he was awarded the Ludwig-Wilhelm-Masch Medal, one of the DGK e.V.’s highest honors, for his exceptional contributions to scientific and applied cosmetics.
Professor Wittern also enjoyed the highest international standing. From 1996 to 2002, he served on the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) and served as its president from 2000 to 2001. Under his leadership, one of the most successful IFSCC World Congresses took place in Berlin in 2000. With foresight and diplomatic skill, he strengthened international cooperation in cosmetic science in a lasting way.
Another key aspect of his work was his extraordinary commitment to SEPAWA e. V. In 2008, Professor Wittern was elected to the board and assumed the presidency of the association in October 2010 for a six-year term.
During his tenure, SEPAWA’s growth was impressive. Attendance and exhibitor numbers at the annual congress rose steadily, the association’s grew internationally, and new scientific formats were established. Professor Wittern provided significant impetus by introducing the Forum for Innovation – including the presentation of innovation awards – and by integrating the German Society for Cosmetics into the congress program. Together with other board members, he initiated and implemented the SEPAWA Endowed Chair at Ostwestfalen-Lippe University of Applied Sciences – a lasting contribution to the promotion of young scientists. He also supported, with foresight, the decision to relocate the steadily growing annual congress to Berlin starting in 2017.
For these extraordinary achievements, Professor Wittern was awarded the SEPAWA Gold Pin of Honor. It recognizes his high level of personal commitment, his creativity, his determination, and his tireless dedication to the further development of our association.
Anyone who met Professor Wittern encountered a scientist of exceptional professional authority, combined with openness and great human warmth. He was always an interested and open-minded conversation partner whose advice and judgment were held in high regard. Many of us owe him a debt of gratitude for his valuable insights, wise guidance, and personal encouragement. He understood better than almost anyone else how to bring people together, support young scientists, and inspire enthusiasm for research and innovation.
With the passing of Professor Dr. Klaus-Peter Wittern, we lose a distinguished scientist, a visionary leader, an important mentor, and a cherished colleague. His work has had a lasting impact on the development of Beiersdorf, the DGK, the IFSCC, the SEPAWA, and the fields of cosmetic and dermatological science. His scientific legacy and his extraordinary volunteer commitment will endure far beyond his lifetime.
As a physicist, Prof. Dr. Wittern knew that energy never disappears. In this sense, the energy he devoted to the advancement of scientific cosmetics will remain forever.
The wise Solomon once wrote: “A good name is better than fine oil …”
The name Klaus Peter Wittern will always be fondly remembered within the international cosmetics community.
Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and all his loved ones.
We will honor the memory of Professor Dr. Klaus-Peter Wittern.
Robert Fischer
in the name of SEPAWA e.V., DGK e.V. and SOFW Journal
