Why Medik8 Crystal Retinal is the Best Serum I’ve Ever Tried

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In my decade working as a beauty editor, I’ve been lucky enough to try thousands of new beauty products. But even with a beauty cupboard full of skincare products, expensive serums and moisturisers at my disposal, my actual skincare routine is pretty minimal. I’ve learned the hard way that introducing too many products only ends badly for my sensitive skin and acne-prone complexion. And through speaking with dermatologists and skin experts throughout my career, they’ve always sung the praises of a streamlined routine and good skincare products. And guess what? My skin is on board with consistency. It might be boring, but it works!

So if I’m adding something into my routine, it’s got to be really good. And one product that I’ve trusted for years is Medik8 Crystal Retinal. This iconic Medik8 skincare product is one I’m always recommending to friends who are after a retinol serum. However, this formula actually uses retinaldehyde. This form of retinoid works up to 11 times faster than retinol and is like a skincare silver bullet for just about any and every skincare concern. From reducing acne to fading acne scarring to plumping fine lines and wrinkles to smoothing uneven skin texture and fading pigmentation, there’s really nothing this serum can’t do.

The best part is that Medik8 Crystal Retinal (was £45, now £36) is currently on sale on Amazon for a generous discount. But if you want to find out more about this award-winning serum, scroll ahead for my full review.

(Image credit: @eleanorvousden for Who What Wear UK)

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Pros

Works on acne, acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and uneven skin texture
Retinaldehyde works faster than other retinol formulas
Comes in varying strengths to suit your skin, whether you’re new to using retinoids or are an experienced retinoid user already

Cons

The stronger strength formulas are more expensive

The Formula

A tube of Medik8 Crystal Retinal in strength six, sitting on a marble table

As I mentioned, what makes this particular serum so special is that it uses retinaldehyde (or retinal for short), which works faster than retinol formulas to plump fine lines and wrinkles, decongest acne-prone complexions, as well as smooth skin texture and fade scarring or pigmentation.

The serum itself is lightweight and non-sticky, absorbing into the skin fast. You apply it after your nightly serums and/or moisturiser. If you’re new to retinal, or any retinol or retinoid product, it’s advised to start on strengths one or three at first, building up to applying it once or twice a week in your evening routine. As your skin adjusts, you can increase the frequency to each night. After you’ve finished a tube, Medik8 advises that you can then move up to the next strength if you’ve tolerated the formula well.

What I love most is that Medik8 has incredible clinical trials to back up its formula. In an independent trial over 12 weeks, users saw a 20% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation and an 11% inrease in skin firmness. In short, this serum really works, so you can feel confident in making the investment.

Before and After

Beauty editor Eleanor Vousden's skin before using Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Eleanor's skin after using Medik8 Crystal Retinal for two years on strengths 1, 3 and 6

My Verdict

I’ve been using Medik8 Crystal Retinal for years (alongside the Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye Cream—which is also a favourite of mine) and nearly every skin expert I speak to recommends it. I have sensitive skin, and it’s one of the few retinoid products I genuinely trust. What makes it stand out is that, whether you’re an experienced retinal user or trying the ingredient for the first time, there are different strengths available to suit your skin. As your skin gradually adapts, you can move up to the next level, building on the skincare benefits as you move onto the next strength.

I originally started with strength one (the lowest strength, which is designed for sensitive skin and retinal beginners) a few years ago, and have now worked my way up to strength six. Since using it, I’ve noticed my rough skin texture becoming smoother and my fine lines beginning to soften. It’s also one of the rare retinoid products that hasn’t caused me any irritation or flaking on my sensitive skin, which is a major plus. It also doesn’t upset my acne-prone complexion either. In fact, I find it helps a lot in reducing my breakouts.

I’m now looking at moving up to 10 to build on my results and treat the deeper lines I’m starting to see on my skin. In fact, I recently saw a friend of mine also uses it, and her skin looked incredible. All in all, if there’s one retinoid serum that I can wholeheartedly recommend you add to your skincare routine, it’s this one.