We’ve all been there before, searching for the perfect anti-aging solution only to find products with bold claims and high prices — yet underwhelming results. Choosing the right serum for your face is paramount in seeking flawless, youthful skin. But it’s difficult to know which products deliver on those big promises of reducing fine lines, improving skin texture and enhancing overall skin health.
Our beauty editors are always looking for products that effectively combat aging and lead to smoother, healthier skin without breaking the bank or the skin’s natural barrier.
Our research discovered two serums making waves in the beauty industry: Cell Forté Serum with BIOMSC™️ by Angela Caglia and The Retinol Serum with TFC8™ by Augustinus Bader. We researched and tested both to give you the breakdown of which rises to the top.
Key Similarities
- Both are expert-led brands combining stem cell technology and luxury.
- Each serum promises to improve skin texture and hydration, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and the look of hyperpigmentation.
- Both products claim to be formulated for all skin types.
Key Differences
- Cell Forté Serum contains thousands of real human-derived exosomes, growth factors and peptides along with bio-identical versions. The Retinol Serum focuses on amino acids and has fewer peptides, adding retinol and shea butter, which might irritate some skin types.
- The Retinol Serum’s heavier ingredients could irritate sensitive skin, whereas Cell Forté Serum’s lighter formula, with hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom, hydrates and soothes more universally.
- Cell Forte Serum is an 8-in-1 multi-tasking anti-aging formula that replaces the need for multiple products such as retinol, vitamin C, peptide and hyaluronic acid serum. The Retinol Serum is a step in a larger routine with multiple products needed.
A Closer Look at Cell Forté Serum
What truly sets Cell Forté Serum apart is its foundation in groundbreaking research, especially its star player: BIOMSC™ (a patented combination of real and bio-identical exosomes, growth factors and peptides) technology. Unlike the bio-identical-only approach of Augustinus Bader’s TFC8™, BIOMSC™ includes both real and bio-identical components. This dual-source technology is DNA-free, ensuring safety and compatibility for all skin types. The result of more than five years of dedicated work by a team of experts in stem biology, aging and skin regeneration, it harnesses bioactive mesenchymal stem cells to actively promote the skin’s natural regeneration and repair processes, targeting signs of aging at the source and revitalizing the skin for a visibly younger appearance.
The serum’s lightweight, hydrating formula is free from heavy ingredients like shea butter. It’s ideal for all skin types, including those prone to congestion or barrier sensitivity. Its moisturizing properties are derived from a blend of skin-loving ingredients such as Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extract, which has been proven to hydrate better than hyaluronic acid, Bacillus ferment extract and various forms of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.
But does all that mean it actually works? After a 28-day clinical study involving women aged 40-60, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive:
- 91% agreed it helped reduce the look of hyperpigmentation
- 90% said skin looks more youthful
- 87% said skin increases luminosity
- 85% said skin elasticity improved
- 85% said it fades the look of fine lines and wrinkles
Cell Forté Serum distinguishes itself with its clean formula. It’s vegan, fragrance-free, cruelty-free and formulated without DNA or human stem cells. Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and redness, brighten the skin, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles in just four weeks, its commitment to non-irritating, effective skincare makes it the clear choice for those who prioritize both results and skin health.
Price: $395 for 30 mL (Angela Caglia)
A Closer Look at The Retinol Serum
The Retinol Serum by Augustinus Bader is formulated with the brand’s signature TFC8™ technology (Trigger Factor Complex), incorporating bio-identical amino acids and peptides. However, it includes two divisive ingredients: retinol and shea butter, which don’t play well with all skin types.
Retinol is a skincare celebrity garnering attention for its improved texture and anti-aging effects. However, it has its drawbacks. Jumping straight into a retinol routine can lead to irritation, so users need to take a slow and steady approach—something not everyone wants to commit to.
Furthermore, while shea butter offers luxurious moisturization, it can potentially clog pores and trigger breakouts, especially for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. Therefore, users must carefully evaluate their skin type and potential sensitivities before incorporating products containing these ingredients.
Price: $375 for 30 mL (Augustinus Bader)
Final Thoughts
When it comes down to choosing between Cell Forté Serum and The Retinol Serum, Cell Forté Serum takes the crown for its holistic approach to skincare. With pioneering BIOMSC™ technology and a clean, hydrating formula, it effectively addresses a range of skin concerns while avoiding the potential drawbacks associated with retinol.
The most notable difference lies in the technology: BIOMSC™ technology in Cell Forté Serum focuses on using bioactive molecules for skin rejuvenation and strength, while TFC8™ in The Retinol Serum utilizes amino acids and peptides to support skin health.
The BIOMSC™ approach targets the skin’s deeper layers, promoting a more robust regeneration process. It boosts your skin’s natural healing abilities, resulting in longer-lasting and more noticeable improvements in skin health. As a result, Cell Forté Serum is our top choice for those seeking healthier, brighter and more youthful-looking skin.
