It’s worth the hype.
I’m always looking to get the most bang for my buck, but that doesn’t mean I’m only ever hunting for an inexpensive dupe. Sure, sometimes I purchase a low-cost lookalike, but other times I’m investing more for better, longer-lasting results. This philosophy is applied to everything in my life: I know the days when grocery stores drop their prices on cleaning supplies, but I will also splurge on delicious, juicy, perfectly ripe $9 strawberries only sold at my local co-op. I was raised on Supermarket Sweep and The Price is Right, so understanding cost versus worth is a game to me, and I like to win.
This same logic is applied to skincare shopping.
In the last decade, the beauty industry has expanded in ways that can be tough to keep up with: From the CVS-receipt-length K-Beauty regimen to the wild technologies we never thought could be applied to our faces (red light therapy masks? Sure, why not!). Meanwhile, skincare science has become a priority as shoppers become more aware of the active ingredients they’re putting into and on their bodies. It seems that the more in-depth the science behind a product, the higher the price. But your skin is your largest organ — it’s OK to invest in it.
Augustinus Bader is one of the brands at the forefront of this newfound transparency in the way beauty products are made. We’ve sung the praises of their oils and serums, but it was time we tried their moisturizer, The Rich Cream. I struggle with eczema and sensitive skin, so finding a hydrating moisturizer has been a lifelong search. All my years of testing moisturizers make me a tough critic and the toughest customer to impress. And yet, I’m impressed.
Why are Augustinus Bader products so expensive?
Augustinus Bader belongs to the upper echelons of skincare brands. It’s aspirational, sitting in the marbled vanities of celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Sandra Oh, Margot Robbie, Jennifer Anniston, and Katie herself. The price tag may cause an initial shock, but its reputation precedes itself for smarter, more advanced formulas.
The brand is known for its patented Trigger Factor Complex (TFC8) formula. It’s included in almost all of its products, including the Rich Cream, and targets common skin complaints like dryness, wrinkles, sagging, discoloration, and more. As Bader himself told Katie Couric Media, “It helps create the ideal environment for the skin’s cellular renewal and guides key nutrients to your skin cells, optimizing the efficacy of ingredients like evening primrose oil, hyaluronic acid, vitamin A, and vitamin C.” In layman’s terms, the formula helps your body harness its inherent repair system, revealing fresher, more youthful skin. That’s exactly what I’d been looking for.
“By creating the optimal environment for your body’s natural renewal processes, TFC8 helps your skin rejuvenate itself and address your specific issues,” Bader told us. “That’s why our products can address such a wide range of concerns across all skin types.” The reason why TFC8 is so different is that no matter your skin concern — drying, aging, hyperpigmentation — the universal formula can make it better. Hence the steeper price tag.
My first impression of Augustinus Bader’s Rich Cream
I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t want Augustinus Bader products to live up to the hype — it’d save me some money. I’m also the first to admit when a product is worth the splurge, and that’s what I set out to discover when I finally tested Augustinus Bader’s moisturizer earlier this year. To say it was a game-changer would be an understatement.
Upon first pump, I was surprised by The Rich Cream’s thin viscosity, as most hydrating formulas tend to veer toward the goopier side. It glided onto my skin, and I could instantly feel it sink into my pores. I immediately noticed how much bouncier my skin looked, and that glow didn’t fade as the day progressed. From then on, I used it religiously, day and night, and my skin has never felt better. My eczema typically flares up this time of year, forcing me to reapply thick, goopy moisturizer to keep it from getting scaly. But after introducing The Rich Cream into my routine, my skin stays hydrated all day long without reapplication (which means the product lasts longer than the less expensive ones I had to reapply constantly, enhancing the bang for my buck). I’ve also noticed some of my pesky sun spots start to fade, some of which I’ve had for years. It also plays well with the rest of my routine (which includes drying retinol), and never pills or separates under a full face of makeup.
While the investment required is not for the faint of heart, it’s been a welcome addition to my arsenal. Since incorporating it into my lineup, my skin has become noticeably healthier over time: My face feels bouncier, and my texture has evened out. It also made my evening routine feel more glamorous and encouraged me to take my time and enjoy the self-care indulgence.
Time for a bold statement: The Rich Cream may be the best moisturizing product I’ve ever used. I know, the price is steep. It’s one of the most expensive items I’ve ever used on my face, but it’s also a formula that’s unmatched — there are no Augustinus Bader dupes for a reason. That unique formula is what you’re paying for, and its application feels more akin to a silky foundation.
I’m hooked. My bank account might not be thrilled about this lifelong partnership, but it’s worth it.
The Best Augustinus Bader Products
Augustinus Bader The Winter Radiance System
Augustinus Bader
If you really want to get your money’s worth, buy in bulk. This kit contains winter essentials like The Rich Cream, a moisturizing cleanser, and eye patches that will scare your dark circles away.
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
Augustinus Bader
Retinol is a super ingredient that can help address fine lines, boost collagen production, and help age spots disappear. So with this item, you get all those benefits plus the brand’s magical TFC8.
Augustinus Bader The Face Oil
Augustinus Bader
Contrary to popular belief, you can and should include a face oil into your skincare routine, especially if you struggle with dry skin. You can apply this in place of a moisturizer, or layer it on top for an extra jolt of hydration.
Augustinus Bader The Hand Treatment
Augustinus Bader
Your skin routine shouldn’t stop after your neck. Your hands get heavy exposure to the elements, so protecting them with an ultra-moisturizing cream is always a good idea. Nourish your dry hands with this luxurious ointment, which once again, includes the brand’s patented technology to support cellular renewal.
