⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Overall Rating: 4.8/5)
Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream has a reputation that precedes it. Owners praise it for turning parched, tight skin into something cushioned and calm, while makeup lovers like the way it creates a smooth, dewy base without a greasy film. The draw is the brand’s TFC8 complex, a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and lipids designed to support the skin’s renewal process. In practical terms, that means fewer dry patches, softer fine lines, and a stronger barrier when used consistently. If your skin struggles after retinoids, peels, or winter air, this is the kind of cream that helps you stay on track. It is luxury priced, and that will be a non-starter for some. For others, the cost makes sense when spread over weeks of twice-daily use, especially if it replaces the need for multiple separate moisturizers and primers.
Quick Verdict
Best for: dry to normal, mature, or barrier-impaired skin that wants reliable cushioning and a dewy finish.
Skip if: you are very oily or clog-prone, or you prefer gel textures and a strictly matte look.
Why We Picked It
Within the luxury bracket, The Rich Cream stands out for two qualities owners repeat. First, comfort. It melts in and stays flexible rather than sitting like wax. Second, consistency. Texture looks smoother after a few weeks, and redness from over-exfoliation tends to settle when the barrier is protected. For many users, it becomes a nightly staple that also moves into morning routines when cold weather arrives.
How It Works
The TFC8 complex delivers small building-block ingredients the skin already recognizes, then pairs them with an emollient base that seals water in. Think of it as both short-term and long-term care. In the short term, occlusives reduce water loss so skin feels soft again. In the long term, the environment is less irritated, which helps texture look more even. There is no harsh tingling or “active” sensation. This is steady improvement and barrier respect.
Performance Timeline
Week 1 to 2: immediate relief from tightness and flaking; makeup sits more evenly.
Week 3 to 4: softening of fine lines around eyes and mouth; fewer rough patches.
Month 2 to 3: steadier tone and smoother texture if used day and night or paired with a gentle routine. Improvements continue with consistency.
Hydration & Texture (4.9/5)
The feel is rich but not waxy. A pea-sized amount spreads well and sinks in after a short massage, leaving a healthy, plump sheen. It layers under sunscreen and foundation if the dose is small. For an oilier T-zone, use less in the morning and focus application on cheeks and perimeter.
Formula & Ingredients (4.9/5)
Headline elements include the TFC8 complex, shea butter, and evening primrose oil to cushion and soften. The formula is fragrance-free and does not rely on heavy silicones to fake slip, which helps long-term wear. It is built for performance rather than perfume.
Design & Packaging (4.6/5)
The frosted glass bottle looks premium, and the pump helps with portion control, which matters at this price. One pump is usually enough for face. Two pumps can cover face and neck at night without feeling heavy.
Who It Is For vs Who Should Skip
Choose it if your skin feels tight after cleansing, your makeup clings to dry spots, or your barrier gets cranky with retinoids. It is also a strong pick for mature skin that prefers a dewy, cushioned finish over a flat matte look.
Skip it if your forehead gets shiny within an hour no matter what you do, or if you break out with most rich creams. In that case, consider Augustinus Bader The Cream as a lighter alternative and keep The Rich Cream for winter nights only.
How To Apply And Layer
Morning: cleanse, vitamin C serum if you use one, a small amount of The Rich Cream, then sunscreen. Give it a minute to settle before SPF.
Night: cleanse, gentle hydrating serum or retinoid on alternating nights, then The Rich Cream pressed in, not rubbed. If you use strong acids, limit to one or two times per week and avoid stacking with retinoids on the same night.
Pro tip: apply to slightly damp skin to lock in more water. If pilling occurs under makeup, halve the dose or wait two extra minutes before foundation.
Makeup Compatibility
Owners report less foundation clinging around the nose and mouth, and a more refined look when powder is used only where needed. For a semi-matte finish, press a tissue over the T-zone after application, then set lightly with powder.
Seasonal And Climate Use
In summer or humid climates, keep it to nights or use a rice-grain amount in the morning. In winter or dry indoor heat, a full pump both morning and night is common. That flexibility helps justify the cost for many people.
Value For Money (4.4/5)
This is luxury. A 50 ml bottle lasting about 6 to 8 weeks at twice-daily use works out to roughly a dollar or two per day depending on the price you pay and how much you pump. If it replaces a separate night cream and a hydrating primer, the math can make sense. If you only need it at night, the timeline extends and the value improves.
Pros
- Deep, lasting hydration without a heavy film
- Science-led complex with consistent owner-reported results
- Cushy, elegant texture and premium packaging
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Premium price point
- Can feel too rich for very oily or clog-prone skin
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Key Ingredients | Best For | Texture/Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream | TFC8® complex, evening primrose oil, shea butter | Anti-aging, deep hydration, sensitive or mature skin | Rich, nourishing, dewy |
| La Mer Crème de la Mer | Miracle Broth™, lime tea extract | Intense hydration, luxury skincare enthusiasts | Very rich, balmy |
| ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream | Padina pavonica, chlorella, ginkgo biloba | Fine lines, firming, lightweight anti-aging | Lightweight, silky |
| Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Cream | Vitamin C, rosehip oil, aloe vera | Brightening, revitalizing dull skin | Creamy, fresh finish |
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Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to invest in your skin, The Rich Cream is a top-tier choice that combines luxury with science. It’s ideal for anyone seeking lasting hydration, anti-ageing benefits, and a touch of indulgence in their daily routine.
See also
If your main goal is deep, comfortable moisture all day, compare lighter daytime textures and richer night options in our guides to Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin and Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin. Both roundups explain which finishes play nicely under sunscreen and foundation, so you can dial in the right feel without sacrificing wear time.
For mixed or reactive skin, start with finish control, not just “heavy versus light.” Our edits for Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin and Best Moisturizer for Combination Skin break down soothing formulas that avoid pilling with SPF. Want the full playbook for pairing vitamin C, retinoids, and moisturizers through the week? See the step-by-step schedules in the Ultimate Anti-Aging Skincare Guide.
FAQ
1) Can Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream be used day and night?
Yes, it’s designed for both morning and evening use, though some people prefer it as a night cream due to its rich texture.
2) How long does one bottle typically last?
A 50 ml bottle usually lasts about 6–8 weeks with twice-daily use, depending on how much product is applied.
3) Is it suitable for oily or acne-prone skin?
The Rich Cream is best suited for dry to normal skin. Those with oily or acne-prone skin may prefer Augustinus Bader’s lighter The Cream.