Before I go into any details on this review, I did something a little different this time. I used these products right to the last drop and it took me a year. So everything you’re going to read is my very in-depth look at this range.
The Crystal Retinal range is a standout collection of vitamin A (retinaldehyde) serums designed to deliver powerful anti-aging benefits with less irritation than traditional retinol, thanks to Medik8’s patented crystal-encapsulation technology that stabilises the active ingredient deep into the skin overnight.
What Makes Crystal Retinal Special:
Advanced vitamin A form: Retinaldehyde (the active in this range) is one biochemical step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, meaning it can act up to 11× faster than standard retinol while still being gentle on the skin. The crystal encapsulation system and patented carrot seed oil complex protect the retinal molecule from degradation and ensure steady, comfortable release through the night.
Medik8 offers a ladder-style series of retinal serums so you can start slow and increase strength as your skin builds tolerance which is ideal for beginners and veteran vitamin A users alike.
Crystal Retinal 3 – Entry-level strength, great for sensitive skin or first-time retinal users.
Crystal Retinal 6 – Mid-strength boost for visible anti-aging benefits without overwhelming the skin.
Crystal Retinal 10 – Intermediate strength targeting lines, texture, and tone.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 & Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24 Night Serum 30ml – Higher concentrations for deeper wrinkles, firmness, and advanced age-defying results. These are for experienced users ready to maximise benefits with continued use.
I was sent the entrylevel 3 Night Serum and the Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3 to start with and told to use every second night and build up to nightly, along with a very good sunscreen in the morning. This is because if you don’t use a strong sunscreen while using retinal/ retinol you can have the opposite effect and bring out sun damage (Which I’ve done in the past, so ALWAYS use a strong sunscreen every day, even in winter).
Pictured: My own product images.
Below is a before shot before starting Medik8. As you can see, I’m slightly sunburnt and have some dark pigmentation on my face from sun damage.
Three days in: As expected, I got the ‘retinal uglies’, a temporary, common side effects experienced when starting a new retinol product, typically including dryness, flaking, redness, peeling, and skin purging (breakouts). It is a period of adjustment where your skin experiences side effects as it adapts to increased cell turnover. I’ve gotten it every time I’ve ever used retinal or retinol products. The increased cell turnover brings existing congestion and bacteria to the surface all at once. It usually lasts 2-4 weeks.
Pictured: Retinal/ Retinol Uglies being, well, ugly.
One week in: My skin is starting to smooth out again, pimple’s sill there but nothing new forming.
Three months in: Skin is looking more plump, firmer and skin tone is more even.
One year in: At this stage It is all about maintaining the effects and I can say I am happy. I don
One year in: At this stage It is all about maintaining the effects and I can say I am happy. Full disclaimer, I don’t use it every day any more but I did get to the bottom of both tubes.
I’ve been genuinely impressed with the results. My skin looks noticeably smoother, brighter, and more refined, with fine lines around my eyes have softened. though I will admit I don’t have many lines in general. There is an overall healthy glow that makes my skin feel firmer and more even-toned. I do recommend starting on the level 3 and build up, especially if you’re trying to avoid weeks of the ‘uglies’ – though in saying that, I just use concealer and am fine.
Disclaimer: While this was gifted to the Sans Pareil Online team to review, our opinions are our own and we have not been paid or coaxed to say something either way. If you would like to have your product reviewed please contact us here.
