Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum Review

Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
6.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
3.3Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.3 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 3.3 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum:
 

Well-Suited Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a high humectancy of 7.4 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.2 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with normal skin who want significant hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 3.3 out of 10.

It contains 3 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
  • Ectoin (est. ≈0.3%),
     an amino acid-derived ingredient with moderate but proven anti-wrinkle efficacy.  A single clinical study involving 104 participants (Heinrich et al.) confirmed that a cream containing 2% ectoin reduced the average wrinkle width by 7% after 4 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without ectoin (vehicle).
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈0.3%),
     one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
Among others, Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum also contains contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (est. ≈1.0%), Tocopherol (est. ≈0.3%), Totarol (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum to your skincare routine:
 

May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Well-suited for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Octyldodecanol
Function:
Origin:
C12-16 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Ectoin
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus Hybrid Oil
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PCA
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:
Maltodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Totarol
Function:
Origin:
Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Pantothenate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Pyridoxine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Alanyl Glutamine
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Oligopeptide-177
Function:
Origin:
Phenylalanine
Function:
Origin:
Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.4
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
10.3
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.4 10
7.4
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 10.3 20
5.2
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.4 10
7.4
All humectants
7.4
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 10.3 20
5.2
All occlusives
10.3
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
2.5 /10 2 0.3 0.4
6 /10 4 0.3 0.4
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
3.3
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Ectoin
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
2
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Niacinamide
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.4
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
1
Niacinamide
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Totarol
0.3
Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.8 5 No
All soothing
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Octyldodecanol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
OctyldodecanolAn emollient fatty alcohol that spreads easily without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. It is also used as a solvent and dispersing agent for other ingredients.
C12-16 Alcohols
Est. %2
Function
Origin
C12-16 AlcoholsA naturally-derived or synthetic ingredient that provides body and cream-like texture to products. This is not a drying alcohol, in fact it can provide a softening effect to the skin.
Squalane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Propanediol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Ectoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ectoin

An amino acid-derived ingredient with average, yet proven by one study, anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Helianthus Annuus Hybrid Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus Hybrid Oil
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitic AcidA saturated fatty acid used in skincare as a strongly occlusive moisturizer and barrier repairing, emollient ingredient. It is a waxy-looking, white solid. Palmitic acid can be commonly found in animal and vegetable fats, notably palm oil.
Myristyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl AlcoholA naturally derived fatty alcohol that thickens and stabilizes emulsions.
PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PCAAlso known as pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, this ingredient is one of the main components of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (which prevents the skin’s surface from drying out).
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Stearoyl GlutamateA useful ingredient for both cleansing and emulsifying purposes. It is a powerful agent for washing away dirt and oils from the skin.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Maltodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MaltodextrinA formula helper manufactured from starch. It has a sweet flavor and is often used in rinse-off products to support their foaming structure. Maltodextrin is also used to stabilize emulsions and to absorb and bind other ingredients in the formula.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Rice ProteinA protein derived from rice bran with film-forming abilities. It can help increase moisturization in skin.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Totarol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TotarolAn effective antimicrobial and antioxidant bioactive compound that occurs naturally in cypress trees.
Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil
Niacinamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Calcium Pantothenate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium PantothenateA vitamin B5 derivative that reduces static buildup on the skin.
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnolia Officinalis Bark ExtractAn antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory extract from Magnolia tree bark, which is popular in Chinese traditional medicine. It is also a prospective anti-pigment ingredient.
Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Ascorbyl PhosphateThe most researched derivative of vitamin C. It boosts collagen synthesis, thereby improving skin structure and elasticity. SAP is effective in the treatment of inflamed acne lesions and has a weak but positive effect on pigmentation issues.
Pyridoxine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pyridoxine HClA B-vitamin that helps regulate sebum production.
Alanyl Glutamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alanyl Glutamine
Arginine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Oligopeptide-177
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oligopeptide-177
Phenylalanine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenylalanineAn essential amino acid used in the treatment of vitiligo and other pigmentation issues. It is considered less effective than other anti-pigment ingredients and is often used in combination with them.
Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.