If I’m being really honest with you, every time I hear that a new celebrity is bringing out a beauty line, a part of me wants to say, “Really, another one?” Don’t get me wrong, I use a lot of celebrity makeup and skincare brands, from Rhode to Rare Beauty, but these days it seems as if everyone wants to put their name to a product. So, when I heard that Dua Lipa was bringing out a skincare collection, you’d be right in thinking that I initially rolled my eyes and got on with my day.
But, actually, once I did a little more digging, I realised the upcoming Dua skincare line was different. Why? Because she has joined forces with one of the most luxurious skincare lines on the market, Augustinus Bader, to bring out a three-part collection (aptly named DUA™) that essentially replaces almost every single product in your skincare routine.
I’ve used Augustinus Bader products for quite some time, so I was immediately interested in this collaboration and wanted to know what made these products different from the brand’s original offerings. So, like any good journalist, I hopped on a Zoom launch with Dua herself to get the full lowdown and have been secretly testing the entire collection before launch so that I can share my honest, unfiltered thoughts with you first.
DUA™ Skincare Review
What Is DUA™?
As mentioned, DUA™ is a collaboration between Dua Lipa and Augustinus Bader, offering a three-step simple skincare routine for glowing results. It’s a collaboration that is said to have formed organically, with Dua already counting herself as a big Augustinus Bader fan.
As I’m sure you can guess, this skincare line is aimed at a slightly younger audience compared to Augustinus Bader’s usual target market, and this is reflected somewhat in the price points. While a 30ml bottle of Augustinus Bader’s bestselling Rich Cream will set you back £150, DUA™ products range from £32 to £65. While it’s not the most affordable skincare line out there, it certainly feels a little more accessible.
The Products
Let’s get into the products. Within the collection, there is a cleanser, serum and moisturiser: Balancing Cream Cleanser, Supercharged Glow Complex and Renewal Cream. The idea behind these three products is to keep your skincare routine as simple as possible. Let’s face it, Dua leads a busy life, so it makes sense for her to take a streamlined approach.
“I created this skincare line to be my everyday essential—a skincare routine that’s clean, effective and effortless,” she says.
Harnessing the power of TFC5™ (the fifth evolution of Augustinus Bader’s TFC™ technology), each product works to support the skin barrier and enhance long-term elasticity.
If you’re already familiar with Augustinus Bader products, you probably know all about TFC8™, a trigger factor complex that contains a blend of hardworking ingredients to support the skin renewal process. However, TFC5™ features a “reduced signaling intensity”, making these products more suitable for a slightly younger audience (also justifying the lower price point). As explained by the brand, these products are designed to maintain “healthy-looking skin today while actively safeguarding its future.”
My Review
I was lucky enough to get my hands on the products before they launched, and I’ve tried each one out to give you my honest opinions.
DUA™ Balancing Cream Cleanser
I really enjoyed this foaming cleanser. I would personally never reach for a foaming formula as I find them too drying on my skin; however, the fact that this is a cream-to-foam consistency means it feels rich and hydrating. It is effective at removing makeup and excess oils, and my skin feels clean yet wonderfully soft after rinsing it off. That being said, as someone who loves to double cleanse, I would probably use this alongside another cleanser (or perhaps use this one twice) for a really deep clean.
DUA™ Supercharged Glow Complex
The Supercharged Glow Complex gets a big yes from me. I love that this contains so many hero ingredients, as it removes the need for multiple serums in my routine. The formula feels nice and lightweight on the skin, leaving me with a noticeable glow. I’ve not been using it long enough to report on any major changes in the appearance of my complexion long-term, but it’s already become a staple for me.
DUA™ Renewal Cream
Who knew that a moisturiser could feel so light yet so hydrating all at the same time? This is a great option for everyday, and it sits well under makeup. If you have super dry skin, you might want to reach for a richer moisturiser now and again, but I can see this becoming another go-to of mine.
Overall, I am really impressed with this entire range. It’s refreshing to see such a streamlined approach to skincare, and I love the fact that each of the products works together to deliver the best results. The packaging feels incredibly luxe and true to the brand, yet has a slightly more modern feel that fits with Dua Lipa’s cool-girl aesthetic. While the collection is still relatively expensive, it feels much more accessible for a brand like Augustinus Bader, and the technology and ingredients behind each product make it feel like a worthwhile investment. I can’t wait to continue testing this collection out.
Shop DUA™ Skincare
DUA™
Balancing Cream Cleanser
A cream-to-foam cleanser containing TFC5™, a prebiotic blend, Tsubaki oil and a biolipid complex to remove makeup and SPF without stripping the skin.
DUA™
Supercharged Glow Complex
This multi-functional formula is packed with skin-loving ingredients such as TFC5™, marine bio-retinol, niacinamide and vitamin B7, working to brighten, smooth and firm the complexion.
A daily moisturiser that does it all. A lightweight cream that delivers long-lasting hydration and helps to reinforce the skin barrier.