Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10 retinaldehyde face serum — 0.10% strength, hydrating night treatment

This high-strength version of Medik8's Crystal Retinal line combines 0.10% retinaldehyde with hydrating humectants to resurface skin texture and help skin appear smoother and firmer over time. Formulated as a leave-on night treatment, it’s designed for experienced retinoid users who have adapted to lower strengths and want a progressive step-up in retinoid power without sacrificing moisture. The formula is fragrance-free and gluten free, designed by Medik8’s in-house team to balance efficacy and tolerability.

How does Crystal Retinal 10 work compared to retinol?

Retinaldehyde is one biochemical step closer to active retinoic acid than retinol, which means it converts faster in skin and can produce visible improvements more quickly while still being formulated for nighttime use. Medik8 pairs retinaldehyde with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to support barrier hydration and vitamin E to offer antioxidant stability.

• Contains 0.10% retinaldehyde — a stronger, faster-converting retinoid precursor.
• Hyaluronic acid and glycerin to attract and hold moisture.
• Vitamin E included for formula stability and skin comfort.
• Gluten free and fragrance-free for broad suitability.

What should I expect when I start using Crystal Retinal 10?

Because this is an advanced strength, expect gradual skin adjustments if you’ve been using lower-strength retinoids. Initial mild dryness, flaking or sensitivity can occur; these responses typically diminish as skin acclimates. Introduce the serum on alternate nights and layer a moisturizer as needed to maintain comfort.

• Recommended for users who have completed Crystal Retinal 6 or equivalent retinoid routines.
• Begin with every-other-night application and increase frequency gradually.
• Apply a hydrating moisturizer after the serum to reduce potential dryness.
• Use daily sunscreen — retinoids can increase skin’s light sensitivity.

How do I use this serum in my nighttime routine?

Apply a pea-sized amount to dry, cleansed skin in the evening, avoiding the immediate eye area. Allow the serum to absorb for a minute, then follow with a restorative moisturizer to support the skin barrier. For those sensitive to strong retinoids, mixing with a moisturizer can ease tolerance while still delivering retinaldehyde benefits.

• Use on clean, dry skin each night or as tolerated.
• Start slowly (alternate nights) and build up to nightly use if comfortable.
• Combine with a hydrating cream to minimize dryness and irritation.
• Always pair with morning sunscreen to protect treated skin.

Who is this for? Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10 is intended for experienced retinoid users seeking a stronger retinaldehyde option to address uneven texture and fine lines while maintaining hydration. It is a suitable choice for adults who've successfully used Crystal Retinal 6 or other high-strength retinoids and want a progressive step up. If you are new to retinoids, consider starting with a lower-strength Crystal Retinal product or consult a skincare professional to determine the best introduction plan for your skin type and concerns.

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.