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Medik8 is one of my all time favourite skincare brands and the Medik8 Crystal Retinal is always a product I recommend for people that want to begin, and then continue on, a progressive retinoid journey without experiencing many of the common associated downsides of retinol use. If you are looking to try Crystal Retinal, here is what you need to know.
What is Medik8 Crystal Retinal?
Medik8 has been making retinoid skincare products for 15 years, and the brand is considered to be the leader in the UK when it comes to potent and effective Vitamin A serums.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal is the UK’s No. 1 Dermatological Face Serum:
- Professional-Grade Results
- Contains retinal which is a next-generation retinoid
- Retinal acts 11x faster than classic retinol
- Uses a patented stability system ensures maximum retinal potency
- Will not irritate the skin
- Clinically proven wrinkle reduction with just 1 tube
- Visibly smooths, brighten and firm skin
- You can customise your routine with 5 progressive strengths up the retinaldehyde ladder
- Suitable for beginner and expert retinoid users
- Even suitable for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist recommended
- Free from artificial fragrance and synthetic colour
- Free from parabens and alcohol
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Shop here*
- Get your free sample here.
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I have amazing news!! You can claim a free deluxe sample of Crystal Retinal which will be perfect for travel! All you have to do is pay postage so it’s an amazing offer!!
Retinal vs Retinol: Why Crystal Retinal Stands Out
Medik8 Crystal Retinal uses a next-generation retinal that is 11x faster and more effective than retinol, based on clinical research.
Although Retinal and Retinol sound very similar, they are not the same thing. They both have excellent anti-ageing properties, however, their molecular size is very different which hugely affects the way they interact with the skin.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and in the retinoid family. It works to stimulate skin cell renewal and encourage collagen production. Vitamin A travels through several stages known as the ‘vitamin A pathway’. When Retinol is applied to the skin, it first converts to retinal, and then to retinoic acid. When it arrives at the retinoic acid stage, the ingredients become ‘active’ and visible results begin to occur.
Retinal is also a retinoid and a form of vitamin A, however, it is further along the vitamin A pathway than retinol. It is only one conversion step away from becoming retinoic acid and this means it gets to work faster on the skin than retinol.
Key Differences
Retinal is clinically proven to work eleven times faster than retinol. It delivers rapid and visible skin improvements.
Retinal is much less irritating on the skin than retinol which means you can use a higher strength without the associated downsides of high strength retinols.
Also Retinal has direct antibacterial properties which make it perfect for the treatment of acne and blemishes, as well as lines and wrinkles.
Retinal is a more unstable molecule than Retinol and is much harder to manage during production. The more stable the molecule, the more effective it is on the skin which means it is vital to use an effective stabilisation system like Medik8’s unique technology.
Medik8 uses their unique crystal encapsulation technology, plus a patented carrot seed oil complex, and super effective airless packaging to ensure they achieve optimum potency and skin comfort which means it’s powerful yet gentle.
For more info, read, Retinal vs Retinol: Which Is Better For Your Skin?
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Crystal Retinal
Medik8’s Crystal Retinal is very easy to integrate into your evening skincare regime. Because it has such a high tech gentle formula, you can use it nightly.
All you need to do it thoroughly cleanse your skin in the evening and when it is dry, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal evenly across the face and neck.
Allow some time for it to fully sink in before applying your other skincare products.
If you are new to Crystal Retinal, you can start at lowest strength and use twice per week to begin with and for the first two weeks. You can then move up to every other night for two weeks, and then on to every night.
You can then move up to the next strength once you have finished each tube. You should always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A.
Key Ingredients
Retinaldehyde (retinal for short) – proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol to target the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture and loss of firmness – without irritation
Hyaluronic Acid – attracts and retains more than 1,000 times its own weight in water, and draws moisture into the upper layers of the skin for a hydrated and visibly supple complexion
Vitamin E – powerful antioxidant that protects against the ageing effects of free radical damage while stabilising retinal for optimal power
Glycerin – natural humectant which traps moisture within the skin to leave it hydrated and comfortable
About Medik8
Medik8 have rich expertise in retinoids and are committed to creating cutting-edge, research-backed skincare solutions.
Leaders in Anti-Ageing
Medik8 are leaders in anti-ageing and are recommended by professionals and customers as the experts in Vitamin A, which includes Retinol and Retinal (Retinaldehyde).
So many of my community on both Facebook and Instagram cite Medik8 as one of their favourite brands, and Crystal Retinal as one of their favourite products.
Medik8 is a UK skincare company and has its own labs and in-house research team. It was founded by scientist Elliot Isaacs, and everything began in a little lab at his dad’s pharmacy. Soon joined by brother Daniel, the cosmeceutical brand grew from there, based on its CSA philosophy – ‘vitamin C plus sunscreen by day, and vitamin A by night’.
What is Medik8 CSA?
The CSA philosophy is Medik8’s approach to the basics of a good skincare routine. This is vitamin C, Sunscreen and vitamin A (retinol). I love this simple approach to skincare, and it’s a brilliant way to make sure your skin is getting what it needs.
My Review of Medik8 Crystal Retinal
Crystal Retinal is Medik8’s most famous product, and I know so many people that say they can’t live without it.
What I love about it is that it is ultra potent and designed as a whole system to introduce skin to using retinoids and also then lead you through your personal retinoid journey.
The retinaldehyde (retinal) in the formula is proven to work 11 times faster than retinol, however, this powerful ingredient is buffered with Glycerin (one of my all-time favourite humectants), Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E to ensure skin is never unnecessarily irritated.
With the different strengths of Medik8 Crystal Retinol available, it means you can slowly and confidently increase the levels to ensure that performance never plateaus and that you are always seeing improvements in your skin.
I used to always reach for Crystal Retinal 3 which is a starter strength. I find this very effective as I test a lot of different skincare products and need something that delivers the gentlest action whilst still being effective. In the last couple of months, I have actually moved up to Crystal Retinal 6 and am seeing a big improvement in texture, lines, and also hyperpigmentation.
It is giving my skin a lovely firmness and bounce as well as great radiance and luminosity. Although it is a step up from the number three strength that I am used to, it is still super gentle and I am able to use it nightly without any downsides like redness, dryness or irritation.
If you have sensitive skin, and haven’t used retinoids before, there is a Number 1 which is an even more gentle formula designed for those with very sensitive skin.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal is one of those products that once you start using, you probably won’t want to stop! It is such a brilliant product. Get your free sample here.
Medik8 is a great brand, and if you are interested in finding out what else they have to offer, read: Medik8 Review: My Top Picks 2024.
The Benefits of Using Crystal Retinal
I think one of the biggest benefits of the Medik8 Crystal Retinal product is the system approach and how you move up the Crystal Retinal ladder. Medik8 has mastered the art of stabilising Retinal to bring you high strength results with a super gentle action.
If you have ever struggled with using retinol and have been deterred by redness or flaking skin, then Medik8 Crystal Retinal is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crystal Retinal?
Crystal Retinal is a night serum that works faster than traditional retinol to deliver visible anti-ageing benefits.
How does Crystal Retinal differ from retinol?
It contains retinaldehyde, a form of Vitamin A that is closer to retinoic acid in the metabolic pathway, making it more potent and faster acting.
Who can use Crystal Retinal?
All skin types can use it and it is even suitable for sensitive skin types. If you are new to retinoids, ease in gently and then work through the Crystal Retinal ladder. See above for a step by step guide.
How often should Crystal Retinal be applied?
Crystal Retinal is designed to be used nightly. However, if you are new to retinoids, start with twice a week and slowly increase.
Can Crystal Retinal be used with other skincare products?
Yes. I love to use CR with Medik8’s Liquid Peptides, and I also love their day time moisturiser with Vitamin C and SPF30 – Daily Radiance Vitamin C. I have a whole list of favourites in: Medik8 Review: My Top Picks 2024.
What is Vitamin A?
Vitamin A as a skincare ingredient is the gold standard when it comes to treating the signs of ageing on the skin. It works to increase collagen production, increase cell turnover, minimise melanin production, reduce sebum production, and helps to repair damage from UV rays.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is the classic Vitamin A. Vitamin A travels through several stages known as the ‘vitamin A pathway’. When Retinol is applied to the skin, it first converts to retinal, and then to retinoic acid.
What is Retinal/Retinaldehyde?
Retinal is also a retinoid and a form of vitamin A, however, it is further along the vitamin A pathway than retinol. It is only one conversion step away from becoming retinoic acid and this means it gets to work faster on the skin than retinol.
Can I use Crystal Retinal around the eye area?
Medik8 don’t recommend using Crystal Retinal around the eyes as it is a very sensitive area of skin on the face. They have created Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye which is optimised for the eye area.
Can I use Crystal Retinal with Vitamin C?
Yes. Medik8’s CSA approach advocates for the use of Vitamin C and Sunscreen during the day, and Vitamin A at night.
Where to buy Medik8 Crystal Retinal
The range of products in its different strengths is available now via the links below:
Offers
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Free Deluxe Sample
Find out how to claim a free DELUXE sample if Medik8 Crystal Retinal.
