To skincare aficionados, Augustinus Bader needs little introduction. With a science-first approach underpinned by over 30 years of research, innovation, and clinical studies, the brand has secured its place as the gold standard in skincare. It’s no wonder it boasts an impressive celebrity following, from Jennifer Aniston to Victoria Beckham. Products of note? The Rich Cream and The SPF have all found favour among beauty editors the world over. And now, a new launch- its most expensive to date at £435- is poised to set the beauty world alight. Here’s why we believe it’s a worthy investment in glowing, beautiful skin.
What does Augustinus Bader The Elixir do?
Like most serums, The Elixir aims to saturate the skin with active ingredients. What sets Augustinus Bader apart is its ultra-concentrated formulation. To put it mildly, this is potent. Powered by an intensified version of the brand’s signature Advanced TFC8® and exosome-rich phyto-peptides, the formula is designed to accelerate skin renewal and diminish signs of ageing, all while nurturing cellular health. The results? Visibly reduced fine lines and wrinkles, improved elasticity, tone and texture, and an overall lifted, smoother, more youthful-looking complexion. The proof, naturally, lies in the data. Clinical trials reveal that within just two hours, The Elixir helps protect and strengthen the skin barrier. After one week, 100% of participants showed improvement in uneven pigmentation. After one month, all participants demonstrated increased skin firmness, with 98% agreeing their skin looked healthier overall. Impressive, indeed.
Shop: Augustinus Bader The Elixir
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What Augustinus Bader says: 'An ultra-concentrated formula that helps accelerate renewal and rapidly reduce visible signs of aging, while supporting skin cell health.'
What we know: As with all Augustinus Bader formulations, this one is powered by Advanced TFC8® - the brands exosome-rich, Exclusive Phyto-Peptidic Concentrate which is well known for its skin beautifying credentials.
Rachael Martin, beauty director says: ‘Firstly, texture. I’m impressed. It’s beautiful - incredibly silky, yet luxurious, gliding on effortlessly and leaving behind a sheer veil of radiance immediately. I have oily skin, but this isn’t heavy at all, instead it sinks in quickly. I’ve only been testing this for a couple of weeks, but I’m already impressed. I do agree with their claim that there’s an instant improvement with skin - my complexion felt plumper and looked more radiant instantly.'
Pros
- Promises quick results
- Luxe packaging
- Silky, non-sticky formula
- Vegan
- Suited to sensitive skin
Cons
- Very expensive
How to apply Augustinus Bader The Elixir
The brand recommends dispensing two pumps into your hands, then gently massaging the serum into the face, neck, and décolleté using upward, sweeping motions until fully absorbed. Follow with your moisturiser of choice.
Our verdict
Rachael Martin, beauty director says:
'Firstly, the texture- it’s divine. Silky, yet indulgent, it glides on effortlessly and leaves behind an immediate veil of radiance. I have oily skin, yet this feels light and sinks in quickly, without a trace of heaviness. While it's absolutely a potent formula, I find my sensitive, blemish prone complexion tolerates it well - this is not something I can often say about serums packed with such a hefty hit of actives. To note, I’ve only been trialling it for a couple of weeks, but already I’m impressed. I’d agree with their claim of a visible improvement within two hours- my skin looked noticeably plumper and more radiant almost instantly. As for the long-term results? I’m keen to complete a full three months of testing before reporting back. But if past Augustinus Bader products are anything to go by, long-term skin renewal seems highly likely.'
Final thoughts
Yes, it’s eye-wateringly expensive. But if healthy, glowing skin is a top priority for you, then this could be a justifiable splurge. One bottle should last approximately three months- and compared to the cost of three facials in London, it starts to look like good value. When Dr. Bader lends his name to a product, you can be confident it delivers.
Main image credits: Photographer: Kristy Noble/Stylist: Alfie Di Trolio/Edit: Annie Vischer/Shoot producer: Anna Dewhurst/Head of beauty: Joely Walker
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism. After interning at Stylist and Harper’s Bazaar she dipped her toes into the world of beauty writing and never looked back. Her special interests include fragrance (rose based scents have her at hello), new skincare innovations, and copious cups of tea. Now, at Grazia, you'll find her writing about beauty, health and wellbeing. Follow her on Instagram @rachael.alice.martin
