Medik8 Crystal Retinal

From £43.00

Crystal Retinal is Medik8's award-winning vitamin A night serum, and the product the brand is built on.

It uses retinaldehyde — not retinol — a next-generation form of vitamin A that sits one step closer to retinoic acid in the skin's conversion pathway. That single difference makes it work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol, without the irritation associated with prescription-strength retinoids.

Available in six progressive strengths, from 1 for the most sensitive skin through to 24 for experienced users. You start where your skin is comfortable and climb the ladder over time — which is why it suits both first-time vitamin A users and people who have used retinoids for years.

BEST FOR - Fine lines and wrinkles - Uneven texture and rough skin - Loss of firmness - Dullness and lack of radiance - Pigmentation and uneven tone - Blemish-prone skin - Anyone who has found standard retinol too slow, or prescription retinoids too harsh

KEY INGREDIENTS - Retinaldehyde — twin-encapsulated for stability and gradual release, working up to 11x faster than retinol - Vitamin E — antioxidant support - Glycerin — hydrates and buffers - Encapsulation technology — protects the active and reduces irritation

USAGE INSTRUCTIONS Apply to clean, dry skin in the evening, over face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Follow with moisturiser. Phase in gradually: twice a week for the first two weeks, every other night for the next two weeks, then nightly. Always apply SPF 30 or higher the following morning — vitamin A increases sun sensitivity. Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

1 — Sensitive skin, or completely new to vitamin A. The gentlest step on the ladder.

3 — Beginner. New to vitamin A but no significant sensitivity. 6 — Regular. Comfortable with vitamin A and ready for more.

10 — Advanced. Experienced with retinoids and tolerating well.

20 — Experienced. For established users wanting a step up.

24 — Expert. The highest strength in the range. If you're unsure, start lower.

Climbing the ladder gradually gives better results than starting too high and having to stop.
Can I use it every night?
Once you have built up gradually, yes. Phase it in over four weeks first.

Will it make me peel?
Some dryness and flaking in the first few weeks is normal as your skin adjusts. It settles.
Reduce frequency rather than stopping if it becomes uncomfortable.

Can I use it in pregnancy?
No. Vitamin A is not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Bakuchiol Peptides is the
plant-based alternative.

Why does it look orange?
Retinaldehyde is naturally yellow-orange. The higher strengths have a peachy tone. This is
normal and it does not stain the skin.

Can I use it with vitamin C?
Yes — vitamin C in the morning, Crystal Retinal at night. This is Medik8's CSA approach.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Which Strength Should I Start With?

Why Retinal Rather Than Retinol?

FAQ

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