Medik8’s Crystal Retinal boasts more than 7,200 five-star reviews from shoppers, with some saying they are asked ‘what they’ve had done’ after using it
Skincare buffs will no doubt be well acquainted with science-backed brand Medik8, either from trying it out themselves or reading about its transformative ‘reversing’ formulas online. With a whole range of skincare staples to choose from, perhaps its most coveted item is its ‘award-winning age-defying vitamin A night serum’ – the Medik8 Crystal Retinal.
In an interview with The Mirror, This Morning beauty guru Nadine Baggott shared that the powerhouse Vitamin A serum is a non-negotiable in her nightly routine. For those who have been tempted to try the product but are yet to take the plunge, the brand claims that after just one tube of the formula, users will experience ‘younger-looking skin’ thanks to its ‘next generation’ vitamin A – also known as Retinaldehyde.
This reportedly works 11x faster than typical retinol and retinal, giving users faster results. It targets wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging skin, firming, smoothing and brightening skin, ‘without irritation’.
This particular detail makes it a desirable addition to night-time routines for those who haven’t previously got on with retinol, which can sometimes be harsh on skin (depending on its strength). The good thing with Medik8’s Crystal Retinal is that it comes in six different, progressive strengths (offering 0.01% – 0.24% retinaldehyde), allowing users to build up their tolerance for this ingredient.
Hailed as a ‘true breakthrough in vitamin A skincare’ by Daniel Isaacs, Medik8’s Chief Product Officer, the brand shares the science behind the ‘No1 retinal serum worldwide’ formula and states: “When it comes to vitamin A; the more stable the molecule, the more effective it can be on the skin. Crystal Retinal offers a level of retinal stability that can only be found at Medik8.
Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Serum
From £45
Medik8
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The Medik8 Crystal Retinal Serum comes in six different strengths.
“Our innovative stability system features our renowned crystal encapsulation technology, a patented carrot seed oil complex, and airless packaging. All this comes together to protect the retinal molecule for unmatched potency, long-lasting effectiveness and proven skin comfort.
“Unlike many retinals, which can cause flaking and irritation, Crystal Retinal has been expertly formulated in our in-house laboratory with a unique combination of the highest quality ingredients and patented technologies so it’s gentle yet very powerful.”
The Crystal Retinal formulation also comes in an eye serum, which claims to create a more youthful-looking eye area with fewer crow’s feet, reduced puffiness and visibly brightened dark circles. Available in three strengths to build up tolerance, it costs £42 at its lowest and comes in a 15ml tube.
Doctor approved
The Crystal Retinal serum from Medik8 has had the seal of approval from skincare professionals and doctors alike for its ‘prescription-like potency’. Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe, a Medical and Cosmetics Doctor, cited: “When it comes to recommending a retinoid, my unwavering choice is Crystal Retinal.
“This exceptional product has become my top recommendation for both patients and followers, thanks to its remarkable effectiveness and pioneering approach to skincare.”
Meanwhile, Cosmetic Physician Dr Bibi Ghalaie raved on Instagram: “It is perfect for newbies who have never used retinoids before and also excellent for experienced users. And with the laddered potency, you can wean up so that your results are constantly being optimised. It’s also great for individuals with sensitive skin due to the time-release technology that allows the retinaldehyde to be drip-fed into the skin overnight, minimising irritation and allowing amazing results without compromising the experience.”
Alongside the key ingredient retinal, the Crystal Retinal serum contains Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E and Glycerin, which work together to leave the skin hydrated and visibly supple, protected against the ageing effects of free radicals and boost the power of vitamin C for optimum visible results.
Costing £50 for a 30ml tube of its ‘3’ strength (perfect for beginners), it’s not the cheapest formula on the market, but it has gathered lots of fans. Our Beauty and Wellness Editor, Laura Mulley, shared her love of the retinal previously, stating it’s her “favourite non-irritating retinal that takes years off.”
For those on a tight budget, The INKEY List offers affordable options. Its Advanced Retinal Serum is on sale at SpaceNK for £12 from £15. While it is important to note that this is a product for ‘experienced’ retinoid users, one shopper raved: “After a few weeks of using this serum, I have noticed that the skin around my eyes and cheeks looks firmer and my skin looks glowing and healthier. I will definitely continue to use this serum as part of my skincare routine, and hopefully invest in more INKEY products.”
For those looking for a sensitive skin option on a budget, Paula’s Choice’s 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment is worth looking at. Costing £15 for a travel size, this formula is a powerful blend of retinol and bakuchiol, and aims to tackle fine lines and wrinkles, restore firmness and even out skin tone.
‘I use it every night’
In her interview with the Mirror, Nadine Baggott said: “Vitamin C and Vitamin A are the two long-term investments I make for my skin, and the only way I can prove that is because I don’t have the skin for a woman my age. I deserve much worse skin for what I put it through when I was younger.
“I don’t use prescription skincare as I have pretty normal, mature skin, but I have a big soft spot for a retinal. Retinal is the strongest form of Vitamin A you can get on the market prior to prescription skincare, and my favourite is this one from Medik8 .”
She added: “I’ve been using retinal for a very long time and Medik8 were the first company in the UK to do it, I think. You can work your way up from the first to the last for minimum irritation, and sometimes even I still get some irritation from the 20, so I’ll step back and use the 10 for a few days and then go back up – but I use it every night.”
It boasts more than 7,200 five-star reviews from shoppers. One user wrote: “This is one of the best products on the market. It’s encapsulated so it has the best delivery system. You can build it up, and it will never irritate your skin. It has definitely helped with my fine lines and wrinkles!”
Another added: “Omg best thing I’ve ever bought! The difference it’s made to my skin is amazing, everyone always asks what I’ve done as it’s so noticeable and clear now! I use it every night with restore and target also – swear by it! Also have got family and friends on it also now, and they can’t believe how amazing it is.”
Someone else shared: “This is the only retinal serum which helped me with my acne, enlarged pores and wrinkles. I use it almost every night, and it never irritated my skin. I pair it with Advanced Night Restore cream,” while a fourth echoed the praise and said: “An excellent treatment. Reversing sun damage and uneven skin tone.”
A couple of people noted that while they loved the product, they struggled with the packaging. One said: “I am loving the product, but I’m having a hard time with the dispenser. The pump is clogging, and I’ve only used it twice. I can’t unscrew the top instead due to the design.”
The brand responded, sharing why this could be the case and advised: “As Crystal Retinal comes in an ‘airless’ tube, on occasion, air can get into the tube, causing the pump to not disperse any product. Often, this is remedied by pressing a few times on the pump until some product comes out, thus removing the air bubble or, squeezing the tube towards the pump to push the product to the pump.”
A five-star review from a woman over 45 years-old said: “This is one of the best products on the market. It’s encapsulated so it has the best delivery system. You can build it up, and it will never irritate your skin. It has definitely helped with my fine lines and wrinkles!”
