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My review of the iconic Augustinus Bader Rich Cream has been a long time coming. Having received countless questions along the lines of “Is Augustinus Bader worth the money?” or “Does The Rich Cream really work?” I’ve struggled to come up with straightforward yes or no answers. Since Bader definitely qualifies as a skincare splurge, here are a few key things I always consider: set realistic goals and expectations and be consistent and patient. Equally important: justify the purchase without losing sleep. Bills before skincare.
It may come as a surprise, but it took some time for me to become an Augustinus Bader fan. It was only after the brand reformulated The Rich Cream and made it vegan that I saw the magic of the coveted moisturizer. It wasn’t entirely the vegan upgrade that made me reconsider it. I truly believe the texture of The Rich Cream became more elegant post-tweak. It also glided on and absorbed into my skin significantly better. The original version has separated on me a few times.
So, why haven’t I reviewed The Rich Cream sooner?
When Augustinus Bader first entered the beauty scene, the brand touted a very strict protocol. The initial launch featured only two products: The Cream and The Rich Cream. And there was a catch. In order to reap the benefits, you were not permitted to apply anything else to your skin prior. You cleansed and then went in with the Augustinus Bader moisturizer. If you applied a toner or a serum beforehand, the moisturizer would not work as well.
I even had the brand’s publicist at the time explain this to me, since, well, I’m Polish. Not only was I confused, I was frustrated. I am all for newness and innovation, but the claim sounded a little gimmicky. So, imagine my surprise (not) when Augustinus Bader launched a serum. And then an acid toner. Both are to be applied in sequence before the moisturizer. Alrighty then.
What is the TFC8® Complex?
Professor Augustinus Bader is a pioneer in the field of skin rejuvenation, so his having joined the consumer space was a much appreciated segue. His patented Trigger Factor Complex (TFC8®) is a unique blend of amino acids, vitamins, and peptides, which creates an optimal cellular environment for the skin to heal and renew. With a focus on improving the compromised skin health of burn victims, Professor Bader’s clinical studies were remarkable. His namesake brand extends the treatment room efficacy to now our vanities. The success of the skincare line provides the financial backing for his medical research.
The TFC8® Complex is common to all Augustinus Bader formulas (including the collaboration with Victoria Beckham). This ensures every step of your skincare routine is focused on delivering anti-aging results from cleansing through toning to hours of soothing and calming hydration. Some skincare aficionados may see a similarity in the brand story of Max Huber and La Mer. Since I’m a believer in science, I’m here for it.
What makes The Rich Cream so good?
In short: the results. I am currently on my fourth bottle of The Rich Cream and can tell you that my skin is more radiant and has that youthful glow. Especially after I reach for my bottle consistently–day or night. It’s a moisturizer so you can use it twice a day if you wish. Personally, my combination skin can only handle it at night during hot, humid summers, but it is ideal in my AM or PM routine during Fall and Winter. I’m not saying I look 10 years younger, I’m saying my skin looks great at 43.
How Rich is The Rich Cream?
Here’s the thing: the Augustinus Bader Rich Cream does not have the dense, creamy, balm-like texture you may expect. It has a lotion-like consistency I’ll refer to as creme fluid. I am also continually impressed by the ease with which it absorbs without feeling the least bit greasy. Its smooth and creamy texture also layers really well over my Retinol serums at night. When used during the day, it never pills under my favorite sunscreen.
What about other Augustinus Bader products?
The entire line is pretty exquisite. Right now, I’m loving everything about the recently launched shower gel. Just the other day, I finished the Foaming Cleanser and thoroughly enjoyed it. Earlier this year, I was flattered to be included in the Retinol Serum campaign and reveled in tracking my own progress before the big announcement. With that said, if I were to recommend a place to start for anyone curious about the Augustinus Bader phenomenon, it would be with The Rich Cream. Everyone needs a moisturizer. It’s a daily non-negotiable step and this one is all about replenishing moisture, strengthening the skin barrier, and improving imperfections such as hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Final Thoughts on The Rich Cream
Since the brand’s launch, I’ve been both on and off their media list. And when I wasn’t receiving the generous PR mailers, I would buy The Rich Cream on my own. My skin feels and looks noticeably better when I use it consistently. As the outside temperatures drop significantly, I have been reaching for my bottle almost nightly and wake up to skin that is plump and dewy. Never tight, dry or uncomfortable. Most importantly, I really like the way my skin looks. If you can fit a splurge into your skincare budget, this is worth the investment.
$300 (50ml), $185 (30ml), $96 (15ml), and most recently in a jumbo $540 (100ml) bottle at dermstore.com and make sure to use my affiliate code OMGBART during checkout and save 15% on your AB purchase
