Augustinus Bader Review: Our Beauty Editor Shares All
I remember when the Augustinus Bader products, with their signature bright blue bottles, first launched in 2018. Every celebrity, beauty editor, and retail buyer were clamoring to try out the highly regarded The Rich Cream and The Cream moisturizer to see if it really worked to transform their skin. Spoiler alert: it did!
The power of the scientific formulas, made possible by Professor Augustinus Bader himself, turned his expert discoveries within cellular regeneration into this miracle cream with a cult-like following. Since then, the brand has continued to expand their product offerings across skincare and haircare, always staying true to the highest caliber of applied science in the beauty industry. I am eager to have my own personal scientific experiment in my bathroom to test out the full Augustinus Bader routine, so I can share my personal review of their popular products and new launches with my fellow skincare lovers.
Editor Beauty Profile
- Skin Type: Combination
- Skin Tone: Olive
- Skin Concern(s): Acne-prone
In this Review
- The Rich Cream
- The Eye Cream
- The Serum
- The Tinted Balm
- The Mineral Sunscreen
- The Rich Shampoo
- The Rich Conditioner
About Augustinus Bader
Spanning everything from luxurious creams & serums to fortifying shampoos and hair oils, every Augustinus Bader product is formulated with TFC8®, an exclusive patented technology comprised of over 40 ingredients and inspired by over 30 years of research, innovation, and clinical study. This technology works by nourishing and protecting the skin, supporting its innate potential for renewal. The formulations have been clinically proven with skin-changing results, garnering them 100+ industry-coveted awards.
Quick Facts:
- Founder: Professor Augustinus Bader
Beauty Realm: Skin Care, Hair Care Known for: The Rich Cream,TFC8 (Trigger Factor Complex) - Derm-Recommended: Yes
What is TFC8®?
If you’re wondering what makes the Augustinus Bader formulas so highly efficacious, its due to its propriety TFC8® complex, which stands for Trigger Factor Complex. This high-performance complex was developed by Professor Bader in his laboratory based in Germany. It uniquely blends high-grade vitamins, lipids, and peptides in optimal ratios that transforms into smarter, adaptive skincare capable of addressing individual concerns. TFC8® enhances the skin’s natural renewal process, improves cellular communication, and combats visible signs of aging and damage for healthier-looking skin and hair.
New Arrival: The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
$140.00
Augustinus Bader Review 2025
The Rich Cream
Award-winning daily face moisturizer that is intensely luxurious, hydrating, and nourishing. The Rich Cream supports cellular renewal to dramatically improve the complexion's appearance.
32 reviews
$305.00
Personal Review: I call the Rich Cream “le crème de la crème” for a reason. As the most prized and popular product in the lineup, I carefully layered the cream on top of the serum- after I let the serum dry and melt into my skin, of course. Exactly as the bottle promises, the cream is very rich. I would say denser than most other moisturizers I’ve tried. Since I have oily skin, I was initially concerned that such a thick cream would only be suited for winter weather or dry skin types. However, I was pleased to find out this Rich Cream is suitable for all skin-types, during all weather conditions, to be used all year round. The formula is non-greasy and worked harmoniously together with The Serum without pilling- what a dynamic skincare duo!
Key Ingredients: Evening Primrose Oil, Squalane, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
The Texture: A rich, thick, and dense cream with a luxuriously soft feel
How to Apply: Apply a pea-sized amount in the morning and at night on clean, dry skin. In upward sweeping motions, massage the cream along your jawline. Apply from your nose to your ears and across your forehead. Apply cream over the cheeks to your temples. Apply from the base of the neck to the tip of the chin. With any excess cream, massage over the décolletage.
The Transformation: I fully understand why so many of my favorite A-list celebrities say that the Rich Cream is their go-to before red carpets! The rich cream is undeniably remarkable. First of all, my fine lines on my forehead are completely gone after using the formula! In addition to my delight on the fine lines disappearing, my skin looks more radiant and has a supple, even tone. My complexion is deeply hydrated and healthy-looking. I will note that consistency is key for high-performance products to have the best results. While you will see the instant benefits only using the Rich Cream one night before a big event, the true long term skin improvement comes with moisturizing your skin twice-a-day, every day.
The Eye Cream
Innovative eye cream formulated to improve the appearance of under-eye circles, puffiness, dark shadows, fine lines, and wrinkles, while boosting firmness and hydration.
$405.00
Personal Review: If the eyes are the window to the soul, my under-eyes are the window to how many hours of sleep I got last night. And it’s never enough. As someone who always has dark under-eye circles, I was most excited to put the product to the test! As the skin around your eye is most sensitive compared to the rest of your face, I am happy to report the gentle formula did not irritate, tingle or burn the skin near my eye nor did it make me cry (as so many eye creams typically do).
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Pennywort Extract, Vitamin B5, Arjun Tree Extract, Jojoba Oil, Seaweed Extracts
The Texture: Creamy, weightless texture that sinks in quickly
How to Apply: Apply with your ring fingertip 2x a day on clean, dry skin. Gently tap the product in a semi-circle around the eyes - starting at the inner corner under your eye (from bridge of nose) to the outer corner, and then up underneath the brow bone.
The Transformation:
The Serum
This breakthrough serum zeros in on your skin's most persistent challenges. The Serum delivers an effortless, all-encompassing solution to skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, signs of aging, environmental damage, appearance of imperfections and loss of elasticity.
$405.00
Personal Review: Once my skin is cleansed and dry post-shower, I start my skincare routine with The Serum. The Serum felt so luxurious to incorporate into my self-care ritual. This is a gorgeous serum formula that absorbs quickly into the skin, with all of the high-performance antioxidants and nutrients in the formula that supports the natural production of collagen. I noticed there is no scent on the product, so the formula is non-polarizing for those with sensitive skin or noses. I was impressed that the iconic blue bottle can be refilled with the “Nomad” gold bottle as sustainability is one of my core values. As I am also prepping for my upcoming international trip, I am thrilled I can just bring the Nomad refill in my travel bag so I can continue my Augustinus Bader routine on-the-go for my skin to glow in Greece!
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Squalane, Polysaccharide Moisture Complex, Sodium Hyaluronate, Resveratrol, Pomegranate Seed Concentrate, Edelweiss Extract, Rice Bran Oil
The Texture: Lightweight, fast-absorbing milky texture
How to Apply: Apply 2 pumps of product in the morning and at night on clean, dry skin. Be sure to apply in an upward, sweeping motion for optimal results.
The Transformation: Over my 2-week testing period, I noticed my skin looking visibly brighter and plumper than before I started to use The Serum. My skin is a smooth, even canvas to apply makeup on top of. However most notably, I don’t even feel the need to apply as much foundation and concealer as I typically do during the day- which is saying a lot as I am a total makeup lover! My skin is looking so luminous and healthy that I am embracing my au natural skin.
The Tinted Balm
$46.00
Personal Review: As a red lipstick aficionado, I gravitated towards applying Shade 1 as a beautiful berry red shade every time I got a glance of my own reflections. The Tinted Lip Balm is available in 3 sheer, universal shades that offer buildable coverage. My lips feel hydrated and nourished for hours while looking extra plump. As a bonus, this balm can also double as a cheek blush if you are going for a “no makeup makeup” look.
The Texture:
How to Apply: Apply the lip balm directly onto your lips and rub together
The Transformation: I love to throw The Tinted Balm into my purse or keep on my desk for everyday wear. The balm style applicator is an easy way to apply color to my lips on-the-go, even if I am just running out the door to walk my dog. I can achieve the perfect pout with the buildable color, which lasts on my lips for a few hours through eating and drinking.
The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Sun care meets skincare in this broad-spectrum, non-nano mineral sunscreen. This lightweight formula protects against UVA and UVB rays while renewing the skin at the same time, preventing and reducing visible signs of aging.
$140.00
Personal Review: The Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is the newest product launch from Augustinus Bader, just in time for the peak sun season are we are going into Summer. According to Professor Augustinus Bader, this product “sets a new benchmark in sun protection and skin health. It features a novel dual-action technology that shields the skin and combats the signs of aging and damage inflicted by UV rays.” While the product is absolutely a sun protectant, the texture feels more so like a moisturizer. The formula is very hydrating, easily rubs into the skin, and doesn’t have a traditional SPF type of scent.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide, Microalgae Extract, Cotton Seed Extract, Pomegranate Flower, Perilla Leaf, & Kakadu Plum Complex, Raspberry Seed Oil, Buriti Oil
The Texture: Creamy, moisturizer-like texture
How to Apply: Apply 2-3 pumps every morning over your moisturizer as the last step in your skincare routine. Apply liberally 15 minutes prior to sun exposure, and reapply at least every 2 hours afterwards.
The Transformation: My skin is loving The Mineral Sunscreen! The formula did not cause me any breakouts or clog pores. I was able to enjoy the first sunny day of the year all day at the park with a few re-applications, knowing my skin was safely protected and not going to burn. This product is the perfect finishing touch on my daily skincare routine to provide a subtle glow before stepping outside.
The Rich Shampoo
An intensely hydrating, cream shampoo formula that gently cleanses while deeply nourishing dry and damaged hair without weighing it down.
1 reviews
$65.00
Personal Review: The first step of my Augustinus Bader routine starts in the shower as I wash my hair with the Rich Shampoo. Because I have naturally curly hair, the Rich Shampoo is best for my hair type to provide deep hydration and nourishment to quench my curls. I also have fine hair, which means I am always looking for haircare products to give me a natural, voluminous lift. It was a luxurious cleansing experience using the shampoo, lightly scented with Rose and Geranium, so I felt transported to a little floral garden. My biggest note- this is not a shampoo that has an intense lather as if you are going through a car wash on your head (which often can signal the use of an unnecessary foaming agent in a shampoo formula).
Key Ingredients: Moringa Oil, Black Oat Complex, Brassica Seed Extract, Baobab Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil
The Texture: Creamy, rich non-foaming texture.
How to Apply: Apply to wet hair and massage gently into the hair and scalp. Rinse and repeat as required. For best results, follow with The Rich Conditioner
The Transformation: My end result was fuller, thicker, healthier looking hair when paired with Rich Conditioner. To be continued below.
The Rich Conditioner
A luxurious, rich cream conditioner that is deeply nourishing to restore dry, damaged hair and lock in lasting hydration, for irresistibly soft, smooth and glossy locks with volume.
$65.00
Personal Review: After rinsing out the Rich Shampoo, I used a dollop of the Rich Conditioner to comb through and detangle my hair. I typically like to use “more than recommended” for the serving size of conditioner, but with the rich formula I felt a little goes a long way. I was able to use about the size of a quarter of conditioner to brush through my lengths and ends. I also like to leave conditioner on my hair as long as possible while I do the rest of my “everything” shower from scrubbing to shaving, so I can let the powerful natural ingredients in the formula melt right into my strands. After 5-10 minutes, I rinsed out the conditioner and ended the ritual with a quick “cold shot” of water to lock in moisture and seal the hair cuticle.
Key Ingredients: Biolipid Complex, Marula Oil, Sunflower Sprout Extract, Peptide-Protein Complex, Rice Protein Complex
The Texture: Creamy, rich texture
How to Apply: Apply to clean, damp hair after using The Rich Shampoo from Augustinus Bader. Work through the length of hair. Leave on for 1-2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
The Transformation: My hair looks and feels SO healthy after using the Rich Shampoo and Rich Conditioner routine together. I tried the products in two different scenarios: one was leaving my natural curls out to bounce around, and the other was blow drying my hair straight. With my curls, I was impressed how my hair looked voluminous with a frizz-free finish and a soft curl pattern. For my blow-out, I noticed how my hair felt light as a feather and silky smooth as can be with a natural shine. To my happy surprise, after a few uses, I visibly noticed less breakage and stronger strands than I had previously before I started to use the routine. Healthy hair is always in style!
Augustinus Bader FAQs
Do Dermatologists Recommend Augustinus Bader?
Yes! Many dermatologists appreciate Augustinus Bader for its science-backed formulas, high-quality ingredients, and skin-rejuvenating technology. Developed by a world-renowned stem cell expert, the line is praised for supporting skin renewal, improving texture, and delivering visible results—making it a favorite choice among skincare professionals.
Should You Use Retinol with Augustinus Bader Products?
Yes, you can use retinol with Augustinus Bader products—but with care. The brand’s signature TFC8® technology supports skin renewal and helps minimize irritation, making it a great companion to retinol. For best results, apply your retinol first, allow it to absorb, then follow with The Rich Cream or The Cream to soothe and hydrate. As always, introduce retinol gradually and don’t forget daily SPF—especially when pairing with active ingredients.
How Long Does it Take for Augustinus Bader to Work?
Many users begin to notice a healthier, more radiant complexion within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use, while deeper results—like improved texture, firmness, and reduced fine lines—often become more visible after 8 to 12 weeks. The key is consistency: Augustinus Bader’s TFC8® technology is designed to support long-term skin renewal, so the benefits build over time.
The Bottom Line
From the Shampoo to Serum to SPF, the full Augustinus Bader routine truly delivers on its promise of transformation. Each product felt like an investment piece- similarly to my designer handbag- in my skincare and haircare health. And because I wear my wear skin and hair every day (duh)- these products have become a non-negotiable in my bathroom cabinet to ensure I am always putting my best face forward.
Taylor Gross is a NYC based “buy-ologist” and founder of ReTaylor Therapy, a leading retail consultancy for beauty and wellness. She has held the position of Head Beauty Buyer and led brand curation at iconic retailers from Space NK to Barneys New York. She has also optimized sales strategies and led partnerships for international beauty brands tailored to the US market. As she is a buying and merchandising product expert, Taylor is known for her extensive knowledge of the beauty industry and the best-in-class product essentials. She is excited to share beauty’s best kept secrets with fellow beauty lovers here at Dermstore.
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