Though it’s easy to want to write off Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream as an unreasonable luxury, there are lots of things you’re paying for beyond the brand name. You’re paying for a moisturizer that these experts said does more than hydrate your skin, as well as for the research and ingredients sourcing that goes into its creation.
The dermatologist and cosmetic chemist I spoke with suggested that even with a cream that has many potential benefits, it’s unwise to view any skin-care product as a one-and-done solution. “It’s not just about one cream. It’s not just about one product. It’s about a routine and it’s about a lifestyle habit, which includes sunscreen,” Ibrahim said.
And the Augustinus Bader cream is still not for everyone. Ibrahim said that for those in their 20s and early 30s, keeping a skin-care routine simple is more than sufficient. “You can reserve The Rich Cream for more mature skin that needs a more targeted solution, that needs more repair and rejuvenation versus younger skin, which just needs protection and rejuvenation.”
Also, if you’re dealing with conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or sensitive skin prone to allergies, or if you’re currently using prescription skin treatments, it’s best to consult your dermatologist before splurging on Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream (or any skin-care product, for that matter).
Alas, when it comes to our splurge pick, you’re not just paying for the brand name.
At the end of the day, nobody needs an expensive moisturizer to have healthy skin—the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream was also loved by our testers and may even be a better fit for some. “I really love both of these creams. For me, they fill different slots. Among my skin-care products, the Augustinus Bader is almost like the Baby Jesus in my holiday creche—super special and only coming into play for exalted occasions. To further the analogy, the CeraVe is more like the Holy Ghost—within easy, affordable reach wherever my family and our faces, shoulders, legs, leathery elbows, crackly hands need it,” Rory said.
When we go back to thinking of a skin-care routine as a home, with moisturizer as its roof, the analogy becomes clear. One type of roof isn’t inherently better than another type for every home. And neither is one moisturizer—even one that’s $190 for a 1-ounce bottle.
The best moisturizer for you depends on your skin type and the specific skin concerns you’re addressing. Oh, and, of course, it also depends on your budget. As a reminder, you do not need to send yourself into debt over skin care.
This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Maxine Builder.
