atrix glycerin hand cream got its start in 1955. Oscar Troplowitz had already registered the name as a trademark in 1906, using it previously for shaving soap (1908), depilatory cream (1927) and lipstick (1949-1953).

In contrast to NIVEA Creme, atrix was created as an oil-in-water emulsion. The glycerin phase is designed to be applied directly to the skin in order to enhance the moisturizing benefit.

Over time, silicon was added to the formula to protect hands with "invisible gloves". According to the product’s claim, "atrix protects hands from becoming dry and chapped when applied before and after contact with water."