Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10 Retinaldehyde Night Serum 0.10% — Firming, Hydrating with Hyaluronic Acid

This potent night serum from Medik8 combines retinaldehyde — a fast-acting vitamin A derivative — with hydrating ingredients to refine skin texture and help reduce the appearance of fine lines. Formulated for experienced retinoid users, Crystal Retinal 10 is the higher-strength step in Medik8’s progressive retinal range and is delivered in a carefully balanced base to maintain hydration throughout treatment.

Who should use Crystal Retinal 10 and when is it appropriate?

Crystal Retinal 10 is intended for people who have already adapted to lower-strength retinal products or are accustomed to strong retinoids. Use it as a nightly treatment after cleansing and before moisturizer, following Medik8’s recommended build-up if you’re increasing strength.

• Recommended for advanced retinoid users or after finishing Crystal Retinal 6
• Nighttime application only to avoid sun sensitivity
• Pair with SPF during daytime to protect skin

How does this serum work to improve skin texture and lines?

Retinaldehyde is a retinal form of vitamin A that converts to the active form inside skin cells, offering faster results than retinol. Medik8 combines 0.10% retinaldehyde with humectants that draw and lock in moisture so skin feels smoother while treatment progresses.

• 0.10% retinaldehyde for accelerated cellular activity
• Hyaluronic acid and glycerin for multi-layer hydration
• Vitamin E to help support skin’s barrier and antioxidant balance

What can I expect during adjustment and how to minimize irritation?

Higher-strength retinal can cause temporary dryness, flaking, or redness during adaptation. Start by spacing out use (every other night) and layer with a moisturizer to maintain comfort as you build tolerance.

• Introduce gradually if moving up from a lower strength
• Use soothing, non-active moisturizers and avoid mixing with other strong actives immediately
• Stop use and consult a professional if prolonged irritation occurs

How should this be incorporated into a nightly routine?

Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin after cleansing and toning, and follow with a nourishing moisturizer. Allow the serum to absorb fully before layering to lock in benefits and reduce potential friction when applying subsequent products.

• Cleanse and dry skin thoroughly before application
• Apply a small amount across face, avoiding eyes and lips
• Finish with moisturizer; use sunscreen each morning

Who is this for: Crystal Retinal 10 is tailored to experienced retinoid users seeking stronger resurfacing results and those who have successfully tolerated Medik8’s lower retinal strengths. It is not the starting point for retinal or retinol newcomers; instead, it serves people focused on improving texture and visible lines while maintaining hydration with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. If you have particularly sensitive skin or are new to vitamin A derivatives, consider beginning with a lower strength or consult a skincare professional before upgrading.

Ingredients

Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isododecane, Cyclodextrin, Cetearyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Squalane, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Rubus Chamaemorus Seed Oil, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Pentylene Glycol, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Retinal, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Alumina, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Stearic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, BHT, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Sodium Polyaspartate, Dipteryx Odorata Bean Extract, Coumarin, Red 4, Titanium Dioxide/CI 77891.