Augustinus Bader vs La Mer
Two Icons of Healing — Different Eras, Different Sciences
Luxury skincare has evolved from stories of healing. Both Augustinus Bader and La Mer were founded by scientists who sought to help damaged skin recover — but their discoveries belong to very different chapters of skincare innovation.
At Greenhaus Studio — home of the Augustinus Bader Skin Lab in Australia — we’re often asked about the difference between these two icons. The answer lies in their founders, their science, and the era of innovation that shaped them.
The Founders
Augustinus Bader was founded by Professor Augustinus Bader, a German biomedical scientist and practicing clinician known for pioneering research in stem-cell biology and regenerative medicine.
La Mer was created in the 1950s by Dr Max Huber, an aerospace physicist who suffered chemical burns in a laboratory accident and turned to the sea for inspiration, developing the first iteration of what became La Mer’s Miracle Broth™.
The Inspiration
Bader’s work began in the medical world, not the cosmetic one. After decades studying how the body heals itself, he developed a ground-breaking hydrogel to help burn victims regenerate healthy tissue — a formulation that remains used in hospitals and trauma centres today. This medical breakthrough later inspired the skincare line that brings those same regenerative principles to everyday skin health.
In contrast, Huber’s creation was born from personal experimentation and natural fermentation, blending sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals over long cycles of time and sound to create a soothing, deeply hydrating cream.
The Science
At the core of Augustinus Bader’s formulas lies TFC8® (Trigger Factor Complex 8) — a patented complex of more than 40 ingredients including amino acids, vitamins, and peptides.
TFC8® acts as a cellular communication network, guiding key nutrients to the right cells at the right time, optimising the skin’s innate ability to repair, renew, and strengthen itself.
It’s the direct evolution of real-world medical science — where clinical research in wound healing became the blueprint for luxury skincare.
La Mer’s formulas revolve around its signature Miracle Broth™, a marine fermentation that harnesses antioxidants and minerals from sea kelp to calm, hydrate, and support the skin barrier. The focus is on sensory nourishment and comfort rather than cellular repair.
Philosophy & Results
Augustinus Bader: Clinical innovation meets human biology. Lightweight, adaptive formulas that deliver visible luminosity today and measurable skin health over time.
La Mer: Nature meets ritual. Rich, comforting creams that cocoon the skin in hydration and sensory luxury.
Both began as stories of healing. But while La Mer pioneered natural luxury in the mid-twentieth century, Augustinus Bader redefines it for the modern age — translating medical-grade regenerative science into everyday ritual.
Explore the Collection
Experience the complete Augustinus Bader Skin, Hair & Body range, available exclusively at Greenhaus Studio — home of the Augustinus Bader Skin Lab Australia.
Shop the Augustinus Bader Collection →