Byrdie Editors Are Obsessed With Augustinus Bader’s $165 Body Cream, So I Tried It

We put Augustinus Bader's The Body Cream to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Last July, revered luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader expanded its product lineup to include The Body Cream, a head-to-toe moisturizer that improves the skin’s tone and texture. At the center of the brand is Professor Augustinus Bader, who has drawn upon his 30 years of stem cell research to craft innovative skincare products that support the body's natural renewal processes.

Before the body cream debuted last summer, Byrdie’s editorial director Faith Xue had the chance to try it out and reported back with rave reviews. With so many celebrities, estheticians, and editors singing the brand’s praises, I leaped at the chance to test the body moisturizer for myself and see if it’s worth the hype (and hefty price tag). Read on for my honest review.

About My Skin: Sensitive and dry 

My skin has always been perpetually dry. In particular, my knees, elbows, and ankles have always been the areas that need extra doses of moisture. Over the years, my skin has also become super sensitive. So, when it comes to body lotions and creams, products loaded with fragrance don’t mesh well with my skin. This cream seemed like a match made in heaven because it's unscented and claims to intensely hydrate the skin. Per the brand's instructions, I lathered my freshly cleansed limbs with the moisturizer in the morning and evening, applying a bit extra to the extra dry areas mentioned.

Augustinus Bader The Body Cream $165.00

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Ingredients: Revitalizing and nourishing

The Body Cream is loaded with good-for-you ingredients, but Augustinus Bader’s proprietary Trigger Factor Complex (TFC8) is the star of the show. A complex blend of natural amino acids, medical-grade vitamins, and synthesized molecules that are naturally found in the skin, the brand claims that TFC8 guides vital nutrients and natural ingredients to cells, which creates an optimal environment for cell regeneration. From there, barrier-supporting bisabolol provides anti-inflammatory benefits to help skin look dewy while shea butter, which contains vitamins A and E, nourishes and hydrates the skin.

There is, however, one ingredient caveat to be aware of. Due to the use of verbena flower/leaf extract, the brand does not recommend use while pregnant or breastfeeding except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

The Feel: Thick and creamy 

When I scooped out a dollop of The Body Cream, I immediately noticed how thick and, yes, creamy it was. It has a bit of a whipped, buttery texture to it. As I began to massage it all over my body, it felt so lightweight on my skin. It melted right into my skin without leaving a greasy residue or white cast like many creams, body butters, and lotions do. 

The Scent: A fragrance-free formula 

The Body Cream doesn’t have a scent, which is another plus for me. As someone with sensitive skin, I enjoyed that I didn’t have to worry about irritation or itchiness caused by fragrance.

The Science: Patented technology

The magic of this cream is found in its patented TFC8 technology. As I mentioned prior, the purported benefits of Augustinus Bader’s proprietary Trigger Factor Complex are plentiful. According to the brand, TFC8 may stimulate dormant stem cells, ramp up the skin’s renewal processes, and leave you with refreshed, radiant skin.

To prove the cream’s efficacy, the brand commissioned a clinical trial; its participants noted a significant reduction in stretch marks and cellulite. The brand also put the product through a user trial where 100% of users agreed the product intensely hydrates the skin, 98% agreed that their skin felt plumper, and 92% agreed that the product helped reduce the appearance of cellulite after four weeks of use.

The Results: Silky smooth skin

I’ve been using this cream for only two weeks so far, but I can say that my skin has never felt better. Upon first application, the cream sank in immediately and I could tell my parched skin was instantly being engulfed in moisture. A few hours later, I felt my skin and it was noticeably softer. From my neck down, my skin looks and feels firmer and plumper. The rough, dry patches on my knees, elbows, and ankles are smoother than ever. The cream delivers an intense level of hydration that I haven’t experienced with other body moisturizers. I didn’t even need to reapply it every day, because it’s moisturizing effects are long-lasting. I’m mesmerized by how silky and supple my skin feels now after using The Body Cream. 

The Value: Worth every penny 

The Body Cream comes with a price tag of $165. For that price, you get 5.7 ounces of product. This is one of those creams where a little goes a long way, so it’ll last you a while. I’m a budget-friendly beauty girl, so I know the high price point is a bit jarring. But, this product works magic and you will get your money’s worth, no doubt. 

Similar Products: Less expensive options 

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($16): Similar to the Augustinus Bader body cream, the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream relies on patented technology to treat dry skin effectively and efficiently. After you apply it to your skin, the product’s MVE Delivery Technology releases a steady flow of hyaluronic acid and three key ceramides throughout the day and night.

Shea Radiance Antioxidant Body Cream ($40): This formula is made with a potent blend of natural ingredients. Crafted with shea butter, baobab oil, and seaweed extracts, this body cream promises skin renewal and to help combat indirect skin damage from air pollution. It also promises to strengthen the skin’s natural lipid barrier to prevent moisture loss, so expect 24 hours of moisture. 

Our Verdict: An investment you won’t regret 

This is not your average body cream. While $165 is quite an investment for a skincare product, I would encourage everyone to treat themselves to this moisturizer at least once. It’s such a luxurious, rich cream that envelops your body with unmatched levels of moisture and will completely reinvigorate dull skin. It’s worth the splurge.