Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Night Serum 0.03% Retinaldehyde — Gentle Resurfacing with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 is a beginner-friendly night serum that uses 0.03% retinaldehyde plus hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to gently resurface and hydrate skin while you sleep.

This concentrated night formula from Medik8 combines retinaldehyde — a potent vitamin A derivative — with moisture-binding ingredients to target texture, fine lines and uneven tone without undue irritation. Crystal Retinal 3 is positioned as the introductory strength in the Crystal Retinal range, designed for people new to retinal treatments or anyone preferring a lower-strength nightly serum. The formula also includes hyaluronic acid and glycerin to support hydration and vitamin E to help stabilize the oil-soluble actives.

How will Crystal Retinal 3 change my nightly routine?

Introduce Crystal Retinal 3 into your evening regimen after cleansing and before heavier oils or creams. Use a pea-sized amount across the face, allowing the serum to absorb fully before layering additional products.

• Apply once nightly to start, increasing frequency as tolerated.
• Use moisturizer afterward if your skin feels dry.
• Always follow with daytime SPF while using retinal products.

What benefits can I expect from 0.03% retinaldehyde?

The 0.03% retinaldehyde concentration offers resurfacing and smoothing benefits typical of retinal derivatives but at a gentler intensity. This allows many users to gain visible improvements to texture and fine lines with lower risk of excessive dryness or irritation compared with higher strengths.

• Supports skin-smoothing and brightness over weeks of use.
• Acts faster than many retinol formulas while being beginner-friendly.
• Formulated to balance potency with tolerability.

Which ingredients support hydration and skin comfort?

Crystal Retinal 3 pairs retinaldehyde with humectants and antioxidants to maintain hydration and product stability. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin attract and hold moisture, while vitamin E helps protect the formula and contributes antioxidant support.

• Hyaluronic acid binds water to plump and hydrate skin surface.
• Glycerin improves skin moisture retention for smoother texture.
• Vitamin E stabilizes active ingredients and supports skin comfort.

How do I choose between Crystal Retinal strengths?

Medik8 offers progressive strengths so you can build tolerance and results over time. Start with Crystal Retinal 3 if you have not used retinal or strong retinoids before; move to higher concentrations as your skin adapts and your goals require greater efficacy.

• Choose 3 (0.03%) for initial introduction and sensitive skin.
• Increase strength gradually as your skin tolerates nightly use.
• Consult product guidance for step-up timing and application tips.

Who is this for: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 is designed for anyone seeking a gentle entry point to retinal-based skin resurfacing — including those with dry, normal or combination skin types who want measurable texture and fine-line improvements without immediate escalation to higher-strength retinoids. It’s also suitable for people who prioritize a science-led formula that pairs retinaldehyde with hydrating and stabilizing ingredients. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific skin conditions, consult a healthcare professional before starting retinal treatments.

Ingredients

Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isododecane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cyclodextrin, Squalane, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Retinal, Rubus Chamaemorus Seed Oil, Alumina, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Stearic Acid, Sodium Polyaspartate, Pentylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 60, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, BHT, Sorbitan Isostearate, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Dipteryx Odorata Bean Extract, Coumarin, Red 4, Titanium Dioxide/CI 77891.