Out of all the beauty products that cross my desk, the world of retinols used to terrify me. Peeling, redness, and sensitivity were buzzwords I used to associate with the effects of retinol. That is, until I discovered retinal. You’ve probably heard of retinol - it’s everywhere - but retinal (yep, with an 'a') is its speedier, slightly stronger sibling, and both are vitamin A derivatives.
Eager to try it out, I invested in a gentle, lightweight night serum formula, Medik8's Crystal Retinal 3, to ease me in, taking a step up from my daily AHA exfoliants. Medik8 is known for its dermatologist-recommended formulas and clinically proven results, and the brand had me hooked from the first try, so I expected great things.
While retinol is loved for being gentler (albeit a little slower to show results), Medik8’s Crystal Retinal makes stepping into the retinal world totally beginner-friendly. You start at the lowest strength, let your skin build tolerance, then level up for even glowier, smoother results. Designed to help improve texture, encourage cell turnover, and help with discolouration and blemishes, retinal is the best way to see your skin change without the need to book an expensive facial.
Crystal Retinal 3 is made with 0.03% encapsulated retinal - a more advanced form of vitamin A, but is perfect for beginners or those who haven't enjoyed the slower effects of using a retinol in the past. Much like other Medik8 products, its aim is to provide professional-grade results, and here at Grazia, our beauty team holds Medik8 firmly in high regard.
After trying this product for a good couple of months, it's safe to say I'm addicted to the results. It allows me to see visible changes in my skin by improving texture and adding radiance without causing any irritation. As someone with dehydrated, sensitive skin, I prioritise a simplified skincare routine, and this night serum works perfectly for me. Ensure to wear an SPF the next day (as if you need a reminder!), and if you suffer from a sensitive skin type, don't forget to balance any form of retinal with a barrier repair cream.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3The best way to introduce your skin to retinol. Medik8's Crystal Retinal range slowly introduces the cell-turnover ingredient to your skin and allows you to build strength to see continuous results.
There's never been a better time to shop this game-changing retinal as it is included in Amazon's sale. Now's your chance to save on the Crystal Retinal range and other bestselling Medik8 products.
Georgia Scott is a beauty product writer for Bauer Media, writing for Grazia. Georgia specialises in beauty writing and spends her days hunting for the latest trending beauty products to get her hands on and review.