A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 3 is displayed, with a pink swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
Crystal Retinal®
A before-and-after comparison of a person's forehead shows visible improvement in fine lines and wrinkles after one tube of Crystal Retinal. Text states 9/10 agree this is the best anti-ageing serum they have ever used.
A woman smiling while applying crystal retinal to her chee and a silver tube of Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6. Five bullet points with checkmarks list product benefits: Clinically proven wrinkle reduction in 7 days, Clinically proven to visibly firm, smooth, brighten & lift skin in 1 tube, Clinically proven to reduce visible dark spots by 20%, 94% agreed Crystal Retinal promoted visibly clearer skin, and 100% agreed Crystal Retinal was gentle on their skin.
A visual guide to Crystal Retinal's 6 PROGRESSIVE STRENGTHS, displayed as swatches of peach-toned cream. Strengths range from 1 for sensitive skin up to Strength 24 for expert vitamin A users, with descriptions for each level.
Crystal Retinal®
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 6 is displayed with text highlighting THE 4 Ps: UNRIVALLED POTENCY, PATENTED STABILITY, PROFESSIONAL GRADE RESULTS and PROGRESSIVE STRENGTHS.
Dr. Bibi Ghalaie, Cosmetic Physician, smiles while holding a silver tube of Crystal Retinal. A quote from her states: The award-winning Crystal Retinal range has a strength ladder which means I can recommend vitamin A to every patient with any skin type.
A HOW TO LAYER diagram for a PM skincare routine. It includes Cleanse (Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil), Target (Liquid Peptides), Vitamin A (Crystal Retinal), Eyes (Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye), and Moisturise (Advanced Night Restore).
Dr. Ewoma Ukeleghe, is shown smiling while holding two silver tubes of Crystal Retinal. A quote from her states: When it comes to recommending a retinoid, my unwavering choice is Crystal Retinal. This exceptional product has become my top recommendation for both patients and followers, thanks to its remarkable effectiveness and pioneering approach to skincare.
A graphic titled THE CSA PHILOSOPHY outlines the three-step anti-aging skincare approach. It illustrates BRIGHTENS with Vitamin C serum (AM), PROTECTS with Sunscreen (AM), and RENEWS with Vitamin A product (PM)
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 6 is displayed, with a peach swatch to its side. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 10 is displayed, with an orange swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 20 is displayed, with an orange swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 3 stands beside its matching silver carton. Both display the product name
Crystal Retinal®
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 1 is displayed, with a pink cream swatch to its right. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 3 is displayed, with a pink swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
Crystal Retinal®
A before-and-after comparison of a person's forehead shows visible improvement in fine lines and wrinkles after one tube of Crystal Retinal. Text states 9/10 agree this is the best anti-ageing serum they have ever used.
A woman smiling while applying crystal retinal to her chee and a silver tube of Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6. Five bullet points with checkmarks list product benefits: Clinically proven wrinkle reduction in 7 days, Clinically proven to visibly firm, smooth, brighten & lift skin in 1 tube, Clinically proven to reduce visible dark spots by 20%, 94% agreed Crystal Retinal promoted visibly clearer skin, and 100% agreed Crystal Retinal was gentle on their skin.
A visual guide to Crystal Retinal's 6 PROGRESSIVE STRENGTHS, displayed as swatches of peach-toned cream. Strengths range from 1 for sensitive skin up to Strength 24 for expert vitamin A users, with descriptions for each level.
Crystal Retinal®
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 6 is displayed with text highlighting THE 4 Ps: UNRIVALLED POTENCY, PATENTED STABILITY, PROFESSIONAL GRADE RESULTS and PROGRESSIVE STRENGTHS.
Dr. Bibi Ghalaie, Cosmetic Physician, smiles while holding a silver tube of Crystal Retinal. A quote from her states: The award-winning Crystal Retinal range has a strength ladder which means I can recommend vitamin A to every patient with any skin type.
A HOW TO LAYER diagram for a PM skincare routine. It includes Cleanse (Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil), Target (Liquid Peptides), Vitamin A (Crystal Retinal), Eyes (Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye), and Moisturise (Advanced Night Restore).
Dr. Ewoma Ukeleghe, is shown smiling while holding two silver tubes of Crystal Retinal. A quote from her states: When it comes to recommending a retinoid, my unwavering choice is Crystal Retinal. This exceptional product has become my top recommendation for both patients and followers, thanks to its remarkable effectiveness and pioneering approach to skincare.
A graphic titled THE CSA PHILOSOPHY outlines the three-step anti-aging skincare approach. It illustrates BRIGHTENS with Vitamin C serum (AM), PROTECTS with Sunscreen (AM), and RENEWS with Vitamin A product (PM)
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 6 is displayed, with a peach swatch to its side. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 10 is displayed, with an orange swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 20 is displayed, with an orange swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 3 stands beside its matching silver carton. Both display the product name
Crystal Retinal®
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 1 is displayed, with a pink cream swatch to its right. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
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Fine Lines & Wrinkles

Crystal Retinal®

  • Renew
  • |
  • Firm
  • |
  • Smooth
Award-winning Age-Defying Vitamin A Night Serum

Reveal younger-looking skin with just 1 tube of Crystal Retinal. Our iconic vitamin A night serum is clinically proven to visibly smooth stubborn wrinkles, brighten dark spots, decongest and firm your skin - without irritation.[1]

Crystal Retinal contains retinAL; a next-generation vitamin A which acts 11x faster than standard retinOL.[2] And, unlike others, our patented retinal stability system ensures unmatched retinal potency and effectiveness until the very last drop.

It’s no wonder Crystal Retinal is the UK’s No.1 dermatological face serum.[3]

[1] Proven via independent clinical study on Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.
[2] G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378
[3] Source: Circana (UK) Ltd, Retail Tracking Service, Prestige Skincare Face Serum by Franchise Line, Derm Brand Attribute, Value & Unit Sales, 12 ME June 2025. †Dermatologist Brand is defined as a brand that has identified itself as (i) founded or developed by a dermatologist and/or (ii) is dermatologist recommended. To verify visit: https://www.eu.medik8.com/circana-group-claim-letters
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Reasons to shop Medik8

Free standard Delivery on orders over €50
15% off your first order
"No questions asked" easy 30 day returns
Medik8 Advanced Night Restore cream jar shown open with a rich dollop of white cream peaked on top against a clean white background, highlighting its smooth, restorative texture. Black text on the jar reads "Rejuvenating Multi-Ceramide Night Cream".
Advanced Night Restore™
  • Smooth
  • |
  • Nourish
  • |
  • Firm
 Rejuvenating Multi-Ceramide Night Cream
Select a Size
Key Benefits
Fast Wrinkle Reducing Power

See clinically proven wrinkle reduction with just 1 tube*

*Proven via independent clinical study on Crystal Retinal 6. Tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks.

Radiant, Youthful Skin

Delivers remarkable visible improvement in texture, brightness, firmness & clarity

Customise Your Routine With 6 Progressive Strengths

A retinal strength for beginners to expert users - even sensitive skin

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

Effective Until The Last Drop

Although a high-strength vitamin C, ethylated L-ascorbic acid is exceptionally stable (meaning it retains its power). This means you can enjoy effective visible results until the very last drop.

Proven Results
BEFORE
AFTER 10 DAYS
BEFORE
AFTER 10 DAYS
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.
How to Use

First-time use

If you're new to Crystal Retinal we recommend a patch test at least 24 hours before first use. Learn how to patch test here.

Phase application in gradually. Use twice a week for the first 2 weeks, every other night for the next 2 weeks, then every night.

Step 1

After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Allow to absorb.

Step 2

Follow with a moisturiser. We recommend Advanced Night Restore which is engineered to be used after vitamin A (retinoids).

Step 3

Always use a sunscreen the next morning after using vitamin A. We recommend Advanced Day Ultimate Protect.

Uses Per Tube

100

Uses per tube

100
Available Strengths

Only at Medik8, you can ladder up your visible age-defying results over time with Crystal Retinal's 6 progressive strengths. 

Offering 0.01% - 0.24% retinaldehyde, there’s a strength for everyone; from very sensitive skins to expert users. 

Take our easy quiz to find your strength. 

Guide to Layering
Step 1: Cleanse
Micellar Mousse™
Morning
Evening
Micellar Mousse™
Select a Size
Step 2: Target
Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
Morning
Evening
Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
(0)
Step 3: Renew
A silver tube of Crystal Retinal 3 is displayed, with a pink swatch. A WORLD FIRST PATENTED TECHNOLOGY seal and a DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED icon are shown.
Evening
Crystal Retinal®
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Step 4: Moisturise
Medik8 Advanced Night Restore cream jar shown open with a rich dollop of white cream peaked on top against a clean white background, highlighting its smooth, restorative texture. Black text on the jar reads
Evening
Advanced Night Restore™
Select a Size
Key Ingredients
Retinaldehyde

Proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol,* retinaldehyde (retinal for short) is a revolutionary form of vitamin A that effectively targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture and loss of firmness - without irritation.

*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378

Hyaluronic Acid

With a unique ability to attract and retain more than 1,000 times its own weight in water, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the lower layers of the skin into the upper layers. This leaves the complexion visibly nourished and supple.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant that provides additional antioxidant protection against the ageing effects of free radicals. It also helps to boost the power of retinol for optimum visible results.

Glycerin

A natural humectant, glycerin traps water within the skin to leave it hydrated and comfortable.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant that provides additional antioxidant protection against the ageing effects of free radicals. It also helps to boost the power of retinol for optimum visible results.

Glycerin

A natural humectant, glycerin traps water within the skin to leave it hydrated and comfortable.

Full List of Ingredients
Crystal Retinal®
Award-winning Age-Defying Vitamin A Night Serum

INGREDIENTS

Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isododecane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Titanium Dioxide, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Cyclodextrin, Squalane, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Seed Oil, Alumina, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Stearic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Retinal, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Sodium Polyaspartate, Climbazole, Disodium EDTA, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Dipteryx Odorata (Tonka) Bean Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Vanilla Planifolia (Vanilla) Fruit Extract, Decylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, BHT, Coumarin.

PRECAUTIONS

Avoid eye contact. If product enters eyes, rinse well with water. If irritation occurs, cease use. Should irritation persist, consult a doctor. Use only as directed. Do not apply to damaged or inflamed skin. Contains vitamin A that may increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen during the day while using this product and for a week afterwards. Use with caution if taking dietary supplements or using other products containing vitamin A/retinoids. Consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding before use. Patch testing prior to use is advised. Refer to medik8.co/patch for an in-depth guide to patch testing.

*Although we try our best to ensure this list of ingredients is accurate there may be product upgrades from time to time, or slight variants between different regions based on local laws, meaning the only definitive ingredient list is that which is printed on the product packaging.
  • Clinically-proven formula
  • Dermatologist recommended
  • No artificial fragrance
  • No synthetic colours
  • Paraben free
  • Alcohol free
Experts Recommended

A true breakthrough in vitamin A skincare

DANIEL ISAACS
Chief Product Officer
A portrait of a Medik8 skincare scientist and founder wearing a branded lab coat, representing the research and innovation behind the formulation.

I swear by Medik8's Crystal Retinal Range - especially for nighttime use

DR. JUSTINE KLUK
Consultant Dermatologist

Really helps keep skin smooth, while tackling fine lines.

NADINE BAGGOTT
Skincare Expert & Beauty Journalist

Complete Your Regime

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Crystal Retinal every night?
As long as you build your use up gradually and start with the appropriate strength to begin with, you can use Crystal Retinal every night. For new users of Crystal Retinal, we strongly recommend that you phase-in application to enable your skin to build up a tolerance while avoiding any potential irritation. Use twice a week for the first two weeks, every other night for the following two weeks, then every night.
Can I use Crystal Retinal while pregnant or breastfeeding?
As a cosmetics company, we are unable to provide product advice in relation to medical conditions such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. We strongly recommend discussing the ingredients with your GP or midwife before use. We do, however, generally recommend avoiding vitamin A use while pregnant or breastfeeding, which is why we offer a plant-based vitamin A alternative - Bakuchiol Peptides.
Do I need to follow Crystal Retinal with a moisturiser?
We do recommend applying a moisturiser after vitamin A. Our bestselling night cream, Advanced Night Restore, is specifically designed to be used following vitamin A use. It helps to boost the visible age-defying benefits of vitamin A while maintaining optimal comfort.
When should I apply Crystal Retinal?
You should apply Crystal Retinal as part of your evening skincare routine - after cleanser, toner and serums, but before your moisturiser.
Can I use Liquid Peptides alongside Crystal Retinal?
Absolutely. Liquid Peptides and Crystal Retinal are the perfect nighttime pairing to take your visible wrinkle-reducing results to the next level.
How do I use Crystal Retinal alongside vitamin C?
We recommend using vitamin C alongside Crystal Retinal (vitamin A) as part of our pioneering CSA Philosophy. This simple yet clinically proven skincare approach champions vitamin C plus Sunscreen by day, vitamin A (retinoids) by night as the secret to youthful, glowing skin. After cleansing in the morning, apply your vitamin C serum (such as C-Tetra Luxe) and follow with your sunscreen (we recommend Advanced Day Ultimate Protect). After cleansing in the evening, apply Crystal Retinal.
Can I use Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream with Crystal Retinal?
Absolutely. Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream and Crystal Retinal make an ideal age-defying duo. Crystal Retinal is our iconic retinoid serum which targets all signs of skin ageing; wrinkles, firmness, elasticity, dark spots and skin texture (& more).  Follow with Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream to trigger the foundations of skin longevity with results starting in just 7 days.[1]
How do I use Crystal Retinal alongside vitamin C?
We recommend using vitamin C alongside Crystal Retinal (vitamin A) as part of our pioneering CSA Philosophy. This simple yet clinically proven skincare approach champions vitamin C plus Sunscreen by day, vitamin A (retinoids) by night as the secret to youthful, glowing skin. After cleansing in the morning, apply your vitamin C serum (such as C-Tetra Luxe) and follow with your sunscreen (we recommend Advanced Day Ultimate Protect). After cleansing in the evening, apply Crystal Retinal.
Can I use Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream with Crystal Retinal?
Absolutely. Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream and Crystal Retinal make an ideal age-defying duo. Crystal Retinal is our iconic retinoid serum which targets all signs of skin ageing; wrinkles, firmness, elasticity, dark spots and skin texture (& more).  Follow with Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream to trigger the foundations of skin longevity with results starting in just 7 days.[1]
Crystal Retinal®
Full Size (30ML)
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