Would you like to try Medik8 Crystal Retinal but aren't sure what the numbers 1, 3, 6, 10, 20 and 24 mean? They indicate different retinal concentrations. The most important factors when choosing are your skin's sensitivity and your previous experience with vitamin A.
For most beginners, Medik8 recommends Crystal Retinal 3. For sensitive skin, it offers the lower concentration Crystal Retinal 1. The higher strengths are intended for more experienced users.
At Beauty Concept Shop, you can easily browse all six concentrations as variants of one product.
Choose your Medik8 Crystal Retinal variant
What is Medik8 Crystal Retinal?
Crystal Retinal is a night serum containing retinaldehyde, also known as retinal. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture and tone.
Retinal and retinol are different forms of vitamin A. Their percentages therefore cannot simply be compared: experience with a particular percentage of retinol does not automatically determine the corresponding retinal concentration.
Crystal Retinal concentrations at a glance
| Variant | Retinal concentration | Who Medik8 recommends it for |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal Retinal 1 | 0.01% | For sensitive skin |
| Crystal Retinal 3 | 0.03% | For beginners to vitamin A |
| Crystal Retinal 6 | 0.06% | For regular vitamin A users |
| Crystal Retinal 10 | 0.1% | For advanced users |
| Crystal Retinal 20 | 0.2% | For experienced users who have already finished at least one pack of Crystal Retinal 10 |
| Crystal Retinal 24 | 0.24% | For very experienced users who have finished at least one pack of Crystal Retinal 20 |
The number on the packaging is not a percentage. For example, Crystal Retinal 3 contains 0.03% retinal, not 3%.
How to choose your first pack
You're new to vitamin A
Medik8's starting recommendation is Crystal Retinal 3. If you have sensitive skin, consider the gentler Crystal Retinal 1.
A higher concentration isn't more suitable just because you want to target more pronounced wrinkles. Tolerance and gradually introducing it into your skincare routine are also important.
You already use vitamin A regularly
When choosing, consider the specific product you use, how often you apply it and how your skin responds. Simply saying “I already use retinol” isn't enough to automatically move up to Crystal Retinal 10 or 20.
You're already familiar with Crystal Retinal
Medik8 recommends finishing at least one full pack of your current strength before moving up to the next one. Also pay attention to how well your skin tolerates it. You don't have to move up to a higher number after every pack.
How to start using Crystal Retinal
The manufacturer recommends performing a patch test on a small area of skin at least 24 hours before first use.
For beginners, it suggests the following approach:
| Period | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| First two weeks | Twice a week in the evening |
| Next two weeks | Every other evening |
| After that | Every evening, if your skin tolerates the product well |
This schedule is not a reason to increase frequency if you experience irritation. If your skin reacts uncomfortably, reduce or stop use; consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist.
Where does it fit into your evening routine?
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Cleanse your skin.
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Apply Crystal Retinal. Medik8 recommends two pumps for the face and neck. Avoid direct contact with the eye area.
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Let it absorb, then follow with a moisturiser.
Always follow the instructions on the specific product packaging, too. In the morning, use a product with a high sun protection factor and reapply it as directed.
On evenings when you don't use Crystal Retinal, you can stick to a simple moisturising routine. There's no need to replace every night off with another active product.
When should you move up to a higher concentration?
First, finish at least one pack of your current strength and assess how well your skin tolerates it. If your skin is irritated, feels tight or is peeling significantly, it's not the right time to increase the intensity.
Following the steps is especially important for the highest strengths:
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Crystal Retinal 20: after at least one pack of Crystal Retinal 10.
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Crystal Retinal 24: after at least one pack of Crystal Retinal 20.
The aim is to find a routine your skin can tolerate long term. You don't have to work your way up to the highest concentration.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start straight away with Crystal Retinal 6?
Medik8 recommends it for regular vitamin A users. If you're completely new to it, the starting recommendation is Crystal Retinal 3, or Crystal Retinal 1 if you have sensitive skin.
Is Crystal Retinal 10 a 10% retinal product?
No. It contains 0.1% retinal. The numbers indicate the different strengths in the range.
Can I use the serum around my eyes?
Medik8 does not recommend applying the facial Crystal Retinal directly around the eyes. It has created a separate product for this area, Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye.
Discover Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye
Can I combine Crystal Retinal with vitamin C?
In its CSA philosophy, Medik8 recommends vitamin C and sun protection in the morning, and vitamin A in the evening. So you don't need to layer both active products in the same application.
Is it suitable during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Medik8 generally recommends avoiding vitamin A during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and consulting a doctor about your skincare choices.
How long will it take to see results?
Changes in the appearance of your skin vary from person to person. A higher concentration or a larger amount of serum does not guarantee faster results. When assessing your progress, consider how consistently you follow your routine, how well your skin tolerates it and gradual changes in its texture or tone.
Choose your Crystal Retinal at Beauty Concept Shop
On a single product page, you can compare and choose Crystal Retinal 1, 3, 6, 10, 20 or 24 in a 30 ml pack. You'll find the current price and availability for your selected variant.
You can collect your order in Prague or have it delivered anywhere in the Czech Republic.
Choose Medik8 Crystal Retinal to suit your skin's experience
