Crystal Retinal®

97% - A before-and-after comparison of a participant's forehead shows visibly improved skin after one tube of Medik8 Crystal Retinal. Text states 97% of people felt their skin had a more youthful appearance.

An infographic titled "THE 4 Ps" against a dark, glowing background, featuring a Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 tube with a dashed line circling it. Text outlines four key pillars: "Unrivalled Potency" for prescription-like strength, "Patented Stability" for maximum effectiveness, "Professional Grade Results" for clinically proven wrinkle reduction in 7 days, and "Progressive Strengths" for building skin tolerance.

9/1- - A before-and-after comparison of a person's forehead shows visible improvement in fine lines and wrinkles after one tube of Crystal Retinal. Text states 9/10 agree this is the best anti-ageing serum they have ever used.

A visual guide to Crystal Retinal's PROGRESSIVE STRENGTHS, displayed as swatches of peach-toned cream. Strengths range from 1 for sensitive skin up to Strength 20 for expert vitamin A users, with descriptions for each level.

Dr. Bibi Ghalaie, Cosmetic Physician, smiles while holding a silver tube of Crystal Retinal. A quote from her states: "The award-winning Crystal Retinal range has a strength ladder which means I can recommend vitamin A to every patient with any skin type."

A HOW TO LAYER diagram for a PM skincare routine. It includes Cleanse (Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil), Target (Liquid Peptides), Vitamin A (Crystal Retinal), Eyes (Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye), and Moisturise (Advanced Night Restore).

A graphic titled THE CSA PHILOSOPHY outlines the three-step anti-aging skincare approach. It illustrates BRIGHTENS with Vitamin C serum (AM), PROTECTS with Sunscreen (AM), and RENEWS with Vitamin A product (PM)

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Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Crystal Retinal®

Renew
|
Firm
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Smooth

Award-winning Age-Defying Vitamin A Night Serum

Reveal younger-looking skin with just 1 tube of Crystal Retinal. Our iconic vitamin A night serum is clinically proven to visibly smooth stubborn wrinkles, brighten dark spots, decongest and firm your skin - without irritation.^[1]

Crystal Retinal contains retinAL; a next-generation vitamin A which acts 11x faster than standard retinOL.^[2] And, unlike others, our patented retinal stability system ensures unmatched retinal potency and effectiveness until the very last drop.

It’s no wonder Crystal Retinal is the UK’s No.1 dermatological face serum.^[3]

[1] Proven via independent clinical study on Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
[2] G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
[3] Source: Circana (UK) Ltd, Retail Tracking Service, Prestige Skincare Face Serum by Franchise Line, Derm Brand Attribute, Value & Unit Sales, 12 ME June 2025. †Dermatologist Brand is defined as a brand that has identified itself as (i) founded or developed by a dermatologist and/or (ii) is dermatologist recommended. To verify visit: https://www.medik8.com/pages/circana-group-claim-letters-crystal-retinal

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Advanced Night Restore™

Smooth
|
Nourish
|
Firm

Rejuvenating Multi-Ceramide Night Cream

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Key Benefits

Fast Wrinkle Reducing Power

See clinically proven wrinkle reduction with just 1 tube^[1]

Radiant, Youthful Skin

Delivers remarkable visible improvement in texture, brightness, firmness & clarity

Customise Your Routine With 6 Progressive Strengths

A retinal strength for beginners to expert users - even sensitive skin

Professional-Grade Results

Retinaldehyde is proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol^[2] - so you can see results sooner

Effective Results Until the Last Drop

Thanks to Medik8's patented stability complex

Proven Results

97% felt their skin had a more youthful appearance*

20% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles*

20% reduction in visible hyperpigmentation*

11% increase in visible skin firmness*

100% felt Crystal Retinal was gentle on their skin*

*Proven via independent clinical study on 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.

How to Use

First-time use

If you're new to Crystal Retinal we recommend a patch test at least 24 hours before first use. Learn how to patch test here.

Phase application in gradually. Use twice a week for the first 2 weeks, every other night for the next 2 weeks, then every night.

Step 1

After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Allow to absorb.

Step 2

Follow with a moisturiser. We recommend Advanced Night Restore which is engineered to be used after vitamin A (retinoids).

Step 3

Always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A. We recommend Advanced Day Ultimate Protect.

NOTE

We recommend using at least 1 tube of your current Crystal Retinal strength before moving up the ladder to the next strength.

Uses per tube

100

Available Strengths

Only at Medik8, you can ladder up your visible age-defying results over time with Crystal Retinal's 5 progressive strengths.

Offering 0.01% - 0.2% retinaldehyde, there’s a strength for everyone; from very sensitive skins to expert users.

Take our easy quiz to find your strength.

Guide to Layering

Step 1: Cleanse

Medik8 Micellar Mousse pump bottle displayed on a white background with a smear of white foam behind it, highlighting the product's texture.

Morning

Evening

Micellar Mousse™

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Step 2: Target

Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP serum bottle with awards on a white background

Morning

Evening

Liquid Peptides Advanced MP

(0)

Step 3: Renew

Evening

Crystal Retinal®

Select a Strength

Step 4: Moisturise

Evening

Advanced Night Restore™

Select a Size

Key Ingredients

Retinaldehyde

Proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol[2], retinaldehyde (retinal for short) is a revolutionary form of vitamin A that effectively targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture and loss of firmness - without irritation

Hyaluronic Acid

With the ability to attract and retain more than 1,000 times its own weight in water, hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the upper layers of the skin; leaving the complexion hydrated and visibly supple.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant that provides additional antioxidant protection against the ageing effects of free radicals. It also helps to boost the power of vitamin C for optimum visible results.

Glycerin

A natural humectant which traps moisture within the skin to leave it hydrated and comfortable.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant that provides additional antioxidant protection against the ageing effects of free radicals. It also helps to boost the power of vitamin C for optimum visible results.

Glycerin

A natural humectant which traps moisture within the skin to leave it hydrated and comfortable.

Clinically-proven formula
Dermatologist recommended
No artificial fragrance
No synthetic colours
Paraben free
Alcohol free
Certified by the vegan society

Experts Recommended

A true breakthrough in vitamin A skincare

DANIEL ISAACS

Chief Product Officer

I swear by Medik8's Crystal Retinal Range - especially for nighttime use

DR. JUSTINE KLUK

Consultant Dermatologist

Really helps keep skin smooth, while tackling fine lines.

NADINE BAGGOTT

Skincare Expert & Beauty Journalist

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Frequently Asked Questions

When, and how, should I apply Crystal Retinal - do I need to phase it into my routine?

When, and how, should I apply Crystal Retinal - do I need to phase it into my routine? Yes. You should apply Crystal Retinal as part of your evening skincare routine - after cleanser, toner and serums, but before your moisturiser. We always recommend phasing Crystal Retinal into your existing skincare regimen; using it twice a week for two weeks, then every other night for two weeks, then every night after that. You do not have to phase in when moving up a strength within the Crystal Retinal ladder (e.g. when moving from Crystal Retinal 3 to Crystal Retinal 6)

Can I use Crystal Retinal every night?

As long as you build your use up gradually and start with the appropriate strength to begin with, you can use Crystal Retinal every night. For new users of Crystal Retinal, we strongly recommend that you phase-in application to enable your skin to build up a tolerance while avoiding any potential irritation. Use twice a week for the first two weeks, every other night for the following two weeks, then every night.

Can I use Crystal Retinal while pregnant or breastfeeding?

As a cosmetics company, we are unable to provide product advice in relation to medical conditions such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. We strongly recommend discussing the ingredients with your GP or midwife before use. We do, however, generally recommend avoiding vitamin A use while pregnant or breastfeeding, which is why we offer a plant-based vitamin A alternative - Bakuchiol Peptides.

Do I need to follow Crystal Retinal with a moisturiser?

We do recommend applying a moisturiser after vitamin A. Our bestselling night cream, Advanced Night Restore, is specifically designed to be used following vitamin A use. It helps to boost the visible age-defying benefits of vitamin A while maintaining optimal comfort.

Will Crystal Retinal 20 / Crystal Retinal 24 make my skin yellow or orange?

Crystal Retinal is designed for nighttime use, followed by a nighttime moisturiser (such as Advanced Night Restore). The higher strengths may leave skin with a slightly peachy tint. However, when blended under a night cream, this is less visible.

When can I move up the ladder from my current Crystal Retinal strength?

We recommend using at least 1 tube of your current Crystal Retinal strength before moving up the ladder to the next strength.

When can I move up to Crystal Retinal 24?

You can move up to Crystal Retinal 24 once you have used at least 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 20. Crystal Retinal 24 is a very high-strength retinal serum, so we advise closely monitoring your skin during the first 2 weeks of use. If you feel any sensitivity during this time, we would suggest reducing the amount of product you apply or applying every other night to begin with.

Why can't I use Crystal Retinal during the day and is it safe when I'm going out in the sun?

Crystal Retinal is completely safe to use if you're going to be exposed to sunlight, as long as you are applying a high protection sunscreen daily. Vitamin A is actually great for use during the summer months as it helps to counteract the visible effects of sun damage but, like all vitamin A formulas, it can make your skin more sensitive. It is also not a photostable ingredient which means it can lose its power and degrade when exposed to direct sunlight. This is why we strongly recommend using Crystal Retinal at night, and then applying a liberal amount of high protection sunscreen the following day. If you are in direct sunlight, we always recommend reapplying your sunscreen every 2 hours.

If you are looking for a vitamin A formula that can be used both morning and evening, try r-Retinoate Day & Night. Formulated with retinyl retinoate, it remains stable when exposed to UV light, meaning it can be used in both your daytime and nighttime regimens.

Can I use Crystal Retinal if I have sensitive skin?

Absolutely, with our unique ladder of progressive strengths which serves all skin types. Crystal Retinal 1 (0.01% retinaldehyde) is specifically formulated as the appropriate strength for those with sensitive skin who still want visible age-defying results.

What percentage of retinal is in Crystal Retinal 24?

Crystal Retinal 24 contains 0.24% retinaldehyde - our highest concentration to date and the very top of our unique Crystal Retinal ladder. We therefore recommend Crystal Retinal 24 for expert vitamin A users only - those who have used at least 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 20.

Can I use Crystal Retinal around my eye area?

We don't recommend using Crystal Retinal directly around the eye area due to its very delicate nature. However, that's exactly why we've created Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye. It boasts all of the renowned age-defying power of our original Crystal Retinal, but is expertly optimised for specific use on the delicate eye area.

How do I use Crystal Retinal alongside vitamin C?

We recommend using vitamin C alongside Crystal Retinal (vitamin A) as part of our pioneering CSA Philosophy. This simple yet clinically proven skincare approach champions vitamin C plus Sunscreen by day, vitamin A (retinoids) by night as the secret to youthful, glowing skin. After cleansing in the morning, apply your vitamin C serum (such as C-Tetra Luxe) and follow with your sunscreen (we recommend Advanced Day Ultimate Protect). After cleansing in the evening, apply Crystal Retinal.

Why are Crystal Retinal 20 and Crystal Retinal 24 peach-coloured?

The bright peachy tone of Crystal Retinal 20 and Crystal Retinal 24 is a combination of the natural yellow colour of the retinal, and some natural extracts which shift the colour from yellow to a more peachy tone. Crystal Retinal 20 and Crystal Retinal 24 are brighter than the lower strengths of Crystal Retinal due to their higher concentration of retinal.

Will Crystal Retinal 20 / Crystal Retinal 24 stain my bedding, pillows, or pyjamas?

Crystal Retinal’s peachy tone gets more intense as you go up the ladder and may create a peachy tone on the face or potentially transfer onto bed sheets. Colour left on bedsheets can be mitigated by allowing Crystal Retinal to absorb fully and dry before making contact with light-coloured fabrics (such as pyjamas, bedding, or pillows). We would also recommend applying a moisturiser over the top of Crystal Retinal 20 / Crystal Retinal 24 to seal it in. If sheets are left with colour on them, wash at 30 degrees and leave to dry in the sunlight - retinal degrades in the sun which helps the colour to quickly fade away.

What is the difference between Crystal Retinal 20 and 24?

Crystal Retinal 20 contains 0.2% retinaldehyde, while Crystal Retinal 24 contains 0.24%. Crystal Retinal 20 is recommended for experienced vitamin A users (those who have used at least 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 10). Crystal Retinal 24 is recommended for expert vitamin A users only (those who have used at least 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 20).

What is a good percentage of retinaldehyde and which Medik8 Crystal Retinal should I start with?

Proven to act 11x faster than standard retinol*, retinaldehyde is a very effective age-defying ingredient. What is a ‘good’ percentage for you depends entirely on your skin type and experience using vitamin A.

Our unique ladder of progressive Crystal Retinal strengths offers 6 different percentages of retinaldehyde. We recommend use of our progressive strengths as follows:

Crystal Retinal 1 (0.01% retinaldehyde): For those with sensitive skin
Crystal Retinal 3 (0.03% retinaldehyde): For new vitamin A users
Crystal Retinal 6 (0.06% retinaldehyde): For regular vitamin A users
Crystal Retinal 10 (0.1% retinaldehyde): For advanced vitamin A users
Crystal Retinal 20 (0.2% retinaldehyde): For experienced vitamin A users
Crystal Retinal 24 (0.24% retinaldehyde): For expert vitamin A users

Which is stronger; retinol or retinal, and how does Crystal Retinal compare?

Crystal Retinal is formulated with retinAL, which is one conversion step closer to the active form of vitamin A (retinoic acid) than retinOL is. It therefore acts 11x faster than standard retinol[2] to deliver visible age-defying results. Crystal Retinal's unique formulation also means that the retinal remains gentle on skin while delivering powerful age-defying benefits.

How long does Crystal Retinal take to work?

Crystal Retinal is clinically proven to deliver visible improvement on wrinkles as well as skin smoothness and brightness in as little as 7 days.*

^{*Proven via independent clinical study on the Crystal Retinal ladder tested on 30 participants over 24 weeks.}

Is 0.1 retinal effective?

Crystal Retinal 10 contains 0.1% retinaldehyde (retinal) which is a very effective strength for delivering visible age-defying results. We recommend Crystal Retinal 10 for advanced vitamin A users, looking to build on their visible results after using Crystal Retinal 6 (0.06% retinaldehyde).