Want a Powerful Retinol? Medik8’s New Retinal 20 Acts 11 Times Faster Than Normal Retinols
Yads Cauchi is a Dermal Clinician, Nutritionist (BHSc, MSc) and Beauty Journalist. She's also a mum of four. Evidence based skin health and nutrition are her thing and she works from her own skin clinic based in Canberra - you can find her there, or on Instagram and TikTok @yadscauchiskin.
In the world of skincare, there really is no other ingredient I love more than a vitamin A, (ok, maybe also sun protection is up there); although as a Dermal Therapist, vitamin A is one of those skincare ingredients that almost all of my clients are on when getting treatments, and one that will deliver the biggest change in your skin.
So, yes it is important, I highly recommend it- but you need to find the right one for your skin.
(Side note: sadly, vitamin A can not be used when pregnant.)
However, there are different derivatives of vitamin A which is where all of this can start to get confusing.
Retinol is obviously a very popular derivative, but retin-al (short for retinaldehyde) has been soaring in popularity as well, and TBH it is about time.
Retinaldehyde is only one metabolic step away from retinoic acid, and retinoic acid is prescription strength vitamin A.
Retinaldehyde works faster than retinol, but is less irritating than prescription strength retinoic acid, hence why it can be a game changer for so many skins.
Enter: Medik8’s Crystal Retinal range, (formulated with retinaldehyde obviously), which I personally have loved for years and think is one of the best on the market.
Which is why today we are going to break down their products, including their Crystal Retinal 20 (which is a 0.2% Retinaldehyde) as it has just landed at Adore Beauty for our seasoned and highly-tolerant retinol users.
Tell Me More About Medik8 Crystal Retinals.
Medik8 crystal retinal formulas are game-changing vitamin A products that contain a uniquely stabilised retinaldehyde which = optimum retinal potency and maximum results.
Crystal Retinal is also clinically proven to deliver visibly brighter, firmer and smoother-looking skin and the product is formulated with really nourishing, hydrating ingredients so it works really well on a lot of skins to balance the effects of the retinal.
Key ingredients:
- Retinaldehyde: The active ingredient in Medik8 Crystal Retinal.
- Glycerin: A humectant that helps to retain moisture in the skin.
- Antioxidants: Substances that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
- Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that can help to stimulate collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that can help to hydrate the skin.
Who Can Use It and How to Apply Medik8 Crystal Retinal.
I also love how there are different strengths in the Medik8 retinal range to choose from which can make it a bit easier for you to find the right one for your skin.
Here's a quick rundown:
Crystal Retinal 1: 0.01% Retinaldehyde - sensitive skin.
Crystal Retinal 3: 0.03% Retinaldehyde - new vitamin A users.
Crystal Retinal 6: 0.06% Retinaldehyde - regular vitamin A users.
Crystal Retinal 10: 0.1% Retinaldehyde - advanced vitamin A users.
Crystal Retinal 20: 0.2% Retinaldehyde - experienced vitamin A users.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Benefits.
So what will you get out of using a product like this in your routine? Well it’s…
- Suitable for all skin’s (who can tolerate vitamin A).
- Can prevent the signs of premature ageing.
- Targets existing/advanced signs of ageing.
- Targets the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
- Can help manage congested skin.
- Fast results without irritation.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 Reviews:
Yadira (me), Dermal Therapist.
Previously, you could only get Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 in clinic, but now it’s available on Adore Beauty and the 20 is my go-to strength as I have been using vitamin A for years. (Do not start here if you are a newbie. Your face will not be happy.)
However, if you have been on the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10 for a while and can use it 5-7 nights per week without irritation this is the next step up for you.
The Crystal Retinal 20 is slightly darker in its yellow hue, but it rubs in clear.
It doesn’t irritate the skin, is very hydrating and can be incorporated super easily into a night time routine.
I love the entire range though, so don’t get hung up on the strength.
The guide above is super helpful, however with any vitamin A product it is always best to start slowly then work your way up.
Laura, AB Staffer - Retail Marketing.
"Over the last few years I have worked my way up the Medik8 Crystal Retinal from 1,3,6 and 10 and have loved every step of the journey!
This range is great because it allows you to move up as your skin requires or find the perfect level for your skin tolerance.
Although I have been loving using the 10 this year - when I heard that the 20 (!!) was coming I shot my hand up to try it.
To use the Crystal Retinol 20, it is recommended that the user has used the level 10 comfortably for a number of months - so I was a great candidate in the AB office to test drive.
A double jump from 10 to 20 does sound daunting, but I have never had any sensitivity or skin concerns with this range so I was very ready to make the plunge.
I followed the routine that the brand recommended when incorporating this product: Twice a week for two weeks, then every second night for two weeks and then if all is well (and it was) every night as you like!
Although I never had any tingling, burning or sensitivity, I do think the gentle easing into any active product set my skin up for success - and I’m now on my nightly application with great results.
While I don’t have any fine lines yet (I’m 28 and have been using retinol as a preventative since I was 23!) I think this range is a big reason why.
I always pair this with my daily SPF+ 50, so when you go to buy this guy, don’t forget to add your SPF to your basket too!"
Catch up on more of Yadira's informative and expert BIQs below:
