Medik8Crystal Retinal 3
Product Description
Reveal visibly firmer, brighter-looking skin with just 1 tube of Crystal Retinal.
Medik8's bestselling vitamin A night serum is formulated with next-generation retinaldehyde (retinal) which is clinically proven to act 11x faster than retinol* for a visibly brighter, smoother and firmer-looking complexion.
Unlike other retinal serums available, Crystal Retinal features Medik8's unique patented stability system to ensure maximum retinal potency, while their industry-leading encapsulation technology delivers powerful yet gentle results with minimal irritation, even on sensitive skin types.
Loved and recommended by dermatologists and professionals all over the world, Crystal Retinal features a unique ladder of 5 progressive strengths (0.01%-0.2% retinal) so that you can continue to experience increased visible youth-renewing results. If you're a vitamin A beginner, Medik8 recommends that most people start on Crystal Retinal 3 (0.03%), or Crystal Retinal 1 if you have very sensitive skin (0.01%). If you're an experienced vitamin A user, start with Crystal Retinal 6 (0.06%) and gradually work your way up to Crystal Retinal 20 (0.2%). To use Crystal Retinal 20, you must have comfortably finished at least 2 tubes of Crystal Retinal 10 due to it containing a high percentage of retinal.
Working to reduce the appearance of stubborn fine lines and wrinkles and dark spots, Crystal Retinal is the ultimate age-defying serum for a healthier, more youthful-looking complexion.
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
KEY BENEFITS
Fast Wrinkle Reducing Power
Clinically proven to visibly reduce wrinkles & dark spots by 20% with just 1 tube*
*Proven via independent clinical study on Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
Professional-Grade Results
Retinaldehyde is proven to work up to 11 times faster than classic retinol* - so you can see results sooner
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
Radiant, Youthful Skin
97% felt their skin had a more youthful appearance*
*Proven via independent clinical study on 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
Effective Results Until the Last Drop
Thanks to Medik8's patented stability complex
Customise Your Routine With 5 Progressive Strengths
A retinal strength for beginners to expert users - even on sensitive skin
KEY INGREDIENTS
Retinaldehyde
Retinaldehyde (retinal for short) is a revolutionary form of vitamin A that is clinically proven to work 11x faster than traditional retinol* to address the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, loss of firmness and hyperpigmentation without any irritation.
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
Hyaluronic Acid
An incredibly hydrating ingredient, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains more than 1,000 times its own weight in water and draws moisture in the upper layers of the skin; leaving it looking visibly supple and deeply hydrated.
Vitamin E
Rich in antioxidants, vitamin E helps to protect the skin against ageing free radicals, while helping to stabilise retinal for maximum results.
Glycerin
A natural humectant that locks moisture into the skin; leaving it feeling comfortable and hydrated.
HOW TO USE
Step 1
After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Allow to absorb then follow with a moisturiser. We recommend Advanced Night Restore which is specifically designed to be used after vitamin A.
Step 2
For new users of Crystal Retinal, phase application in gradually. Use twice a week for the first 2 weeks, every other night for the next 2 weeks, then every night. You should always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A.
How to Layer Crystal Retinal
PM: In your evening routine, first cleanse and apply your target serum. Follow with Crystal
20% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles*
20% reduction in visible hyperpigmentation*
11% increase in 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.
Medik8's bestselling vitamin A night serum is formulated with next-generation retinaldehyde (retinal) which is clinically proven to act 11x faster than retinol* for a visibly brighter, smoother and firmer-looking complexion.
Unlike other retinal serums available, Crystal Retinal features Medik8's unique patented stability system to ensure maximum retinal potency, while their industry-leading encapsulation technology delivers powerful yet gentle results with minimal irritation, even on sensitive skin types.
Loved and recommended by dermatologists and professionals all over the world, Crystal Retinal features a unique ladder of 5 progressive strengths (0.01%-0.2% retinal) so that you can continue to experience increased visible youth-renewing results. If you're a vitamin A beginner, Medik8 recommends that most people start on Crystal Retinal 3 (0.03%), or Crystal Retinal 1 if you have very sensitive skin (0.01%). If you're an experienced vitamin A user, start with Crystal Retinal 6 (0.06%) and gradually work your way up to Crystal Retinal 20 (0.2%). To use Crystal Retinal 20, you must have comfortably finished at least 2 tubes of Crystal Retinal 10 due to it containing a high percentage of retinal.
Working to reduce the appearance of stubborn fine lines and wrinkles and dark spots, Crystal Retinal is the ultimate age-defying serum for a healthier, more youthful-looking complexion.
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
KEY BENEFITS
Fast Wrinkle Reducing Power
Clinically proven to visibly reduce wrinkles & dark spots by 20% with just 1 tube*
*Proven via independent clinical study on Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
Professional-Grade Results
Retinaldehyde is proven to work up to 11 times faster than classic retinol* - so you can see results sooner
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
Radiant, Youthful Skin
97% felt their skin had a more youthful appearance*
*Proven via independent clinical study on 1 tube of Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
Effective Results Until the Last Drop
Thanks to Medik8's patented stability complex
Customise Your Routine With 5 Progressive Strengths
A retinal strength for beginners to expert users - even on sensitive skin
KEY INGREDIENTS
Retinaldehyde
Retinaldehyde (retinal for short) is a revolutionary form of vitamin A that is clinically proven to work 11x faster than traditional retinol* to address the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, loss of firmness and hyperpigmentation without any irritation.
*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
Hyaluronic Acid
An incredibly hydrating ingredient, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains more than 1,000 times its own weight in water and draws moisture in the upper layers of the skin; leaving it looking visibly supple and deeply hydrated.
Vitamin E
Rich in antioxidants, vitamin E helps to protect the skin against ageing free radicals, while helping to stabilise retinal for maximum results.
Glycerin
A natural humectant that locks moisture into the skin; leaving it feeling comfortable and hydrated.
HOW TO USE
Step 1
After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Allow to absorb then follow with a moisturiser. We recommend Advanced Night Restore which is specifically designed to be used after vitamin A.
Step 2
For new users of Crystal Retinal, phase application in gradually. Use twice a week for the first 2 weeks, every other night for the next 2 weeks, then every night. You should always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A.
How to Layer Crystal Retinal
PM: In your evening routine, first cleanse and apply your target serum. Follow with Crystal
Directions
Step 1
After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Allow to absorb then follow with a moisturiser. We recommend Advanced Night Restore which is specifically designed to be used after vitamin A.
Step 2
For new users of Crystal Retinal, phase application in gradually. Use twice a week for the first 2 weeks, every other night for the next 2 weeks, then every night. You should always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A.
How to Layer Crystal Retinal
PM: In your evening routine, first cleanse and apply your target serum. Follow with Crystal Retinal and finally, your moisturiser.
Test 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 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.
More information
*Product packaging may vary by region\nIngredients
Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isododecane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, PPG-12/SMDICopolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide, Cyclodextrin, Squalane, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyacetophenone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Dipteryx Odorata (Tonka) Bean Extract, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Coumarin, BHT, Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Seed Oil, Alumina, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Stearic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Retinal, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Vanilla Planifolia (Vanilla) Fruit Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Sativa Seed Oil, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Sodium Polyaspartate, Climbazole, Decylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol.
This list of ingredients may be subject to change, please consult the packaging of the product purchased.
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Rated 5 out of
5
by
Anonymous from
The best Retinal!
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I love this Retinal because you can upgrade the strength gradually. I noticed my wrinkles around my eyes have definitely improved since I started using this. I couldn’t tolerate Tretinoin but I was able to build up tolerance with this product. The best Vitamin A product so far!
Date published: 2026-09-01
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Patrick Z. from
Effective serum
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Very effective serum I can feel my acne scar fade next morning and now I’m using it every night to keep the skin fresh and regenerating
Date published: 2026-09-01
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Anna from
You must have it !
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] One of the best products in the market. Started from lowest strength and now will be moving up with the strength. Nice consistence and great effect. Skin is not irritated and looks plumped. KR Anna
Date published: 2026-09-01
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Jenny Y. from
Crystal Retinal 10
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I have just upped my retinal to strength 10 after using 2 bottle sof the nr 6. so far I ave not had any bad reactions and look forward to seeing the results.
Date published: 2026-08-31
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Georgia L. from
My favourite formula that Medik8
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] My favourite formula that Medik8 have released so far. I’ve found my fine lines have softened and my skin texture has dramatically improved. After consistent use I have found my skin can tolerate the higher strength, if excited to move up again!
Date published: 2026-08-31
Rated 3 out of
5
by
JOY B. from
Too thick
The formula is quite thick and doesn’t spread particularly easily over the whole face. Because you’re applying it to a much larger area than an eye product, I find myself needing to use considerably more than I would like just to get an even, comfortable layer everywhere. With a thicker formulation, there’s a tendency to keep adding more because otherwise it feels as though you’re dragging the product around rather than distributing it evenly.
That’s the biggest downside for me, because it has a direct impact on the value of the product. It’s an expensive retinal to begin with, and if the texture means you need more product per application, a 30ml tube doesn’t last as long as it could.
What I find particularly interesting is the difference compared with the Medik8 Eye 6. The Eye 6 has a much lighter, more easily spreadable texture, so a relatively small amount goes a surprisingly long way. I’d love to see that kind of lighter, more fluid texture in the face formulation.
I’m sure the thicker, creamier texture will be a positive for some people, particularly if they like a more moisturising feel. But for me, a thinner formulation that spreads quickly and evenly would make much more sense for a full-face retinal. It would be easier to apply, reduce the temptation to overuse the product, and ultimately make it more economical.
So, while I’m happy with the performance of Crystal Retinal 6, the texture is the one thing I would change. A lighter, more spreadable formulation would make an already good product considerably better — and better value too.
Date published: 2026-08-31
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Suzanne R. from
Using Crystal Retinal in the
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Using Crystal Retinal in the evening i
has really helped with my hyperpigmentation. Because it uses retinaldehyde , it speeds up cell turnover to fade dark spots and has helped even out my skin tone.
I then finish up with advanced night restore as a barrier repair.
Date published: 2026-08-31
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Tajana W. from
Medik8 crystal retinal
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I have used this for 1 month and gradually titrating up the frequency as I have sensitive skin. I have noticed an improvement in pigmentation to date and will hopefully be able to go up the ladder to increase the strength and frequency of retinal.
Date published: 2026-08-31
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