Crystal Retinal (Vitamin A) Skin Care

Retinal is Medik8’s revolutionary form of vitamin A, found in our cult-favourite Crystal Retinal serum. It is one conversion step closer than retinol to the active form of vitamin A (retinoic acid), that all forms of vitamin A must convert to before becoming effective on the skin. As a result, retinal is 11x faster acting on the skin than retinol[1], without any added irritation potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is retinal, and what does it do for the skin?

Retinal or retinaldehyde is the strongest form of vitamin A you can use without a prescription and requires only one conversion to become retinoic acid in your skin. It yields a more intensive anti-ageing treatment than other vitamin A alternatives and acts up to 11 times faster than traditional retinol products. Retinal products help to increase your skin turnover rate while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, so skin becomes thicker, smoother and brighter. Retinal also improves skin texture and tone, manages oil production and clears your pores from debris.

What is the difference between retinol and retinal?

Retinal, or retinaldehyde, is a direct precursor to retinoic acid, which is the active form of vitamin A used by the skin. This one-step conversion makes retinal more potent and faster-acting than retinol, which requires two conversion steps to become retinoic acid. Because of this more direct conversion path, retinal can offer quicker and more pronounced anti-ageing benefits. Retinal-based products like Crystal Retinal are ideal for those looking for rapid improvements in skin texture, reduction in fine lines and wrinkles and overall complexion enhancement. It's often recommended for those who have some experience with retinoids or have specific ageing concerns that need addressing more aggressively.

How do I use retinal in my skincare routine?

If this is your first time using a retinal serum, we suggest starting with a low percentage active like our Crystal Retinal 3. To begin with, use it in the evening once or twice a week after cleansing and using a hydrating product and before applying a moisturiser. Once your skin acclimatises to it, increase your application until you can comfortably apply it nightly before progressing to a higher-strength retinal product.

Are retinal serums suitable for all skin types?

Retinal is an intense active that yields powerful skin-clearing results, particularly for oily, combination and mature skin types. If you’re prone to sensitive skin, we would recommend you begin with Crystal Retinal 1. For people who still can’t comfortably tolerate it, we recommend trying our Bakuchiol Peptides Serum.

What are the potential side effects of using retinal?

Retinal can have the potential to cause dryness and irritation if applied to skin that isn’t used to it. So, we always recommend introducing retinal products gradually and slowly increasing the strength over time. This way, the potential for irritation is minimised as your skin can naturally adapt over time. At Medik8, our vitamin A products are carefully formulated to further reduce the potential for discomfort. We use our Time Release Technology™ delivery system to gently release retinol or retinal into the skin, to avoid overwhelming skin and to prolong the effects overnight.

Can I combine a retinal serum with other skincare products?

Retinal skincare works synergistically with various products, including peptides, niacinamide, vitamin C, SPF and many antioxidants.

Are there any specific guidelines for using retinal during the day?

Generally, we don’t recommend using retinal during the day as it can make the skin highly sensitive to ultraviolet rays. This could potentially lead to sunburn and skin damage. Instead, use retinal products in the evening to minimise exposure to sunlight and give your skin ample time to repair during sleep.

Can retinal be used safely by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding?

Retinal, like other forms of vitamin A, is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to the potential risks it poses to the developing foetus or infant. Consider safer skincare options during these periods such as bakuchiol peptides and vitamin C serums. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding and looking to address skin concerns, consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist to find suitable non-retinal options.

How soon can I expect to see results when using retinal?

Soon after incorporating a retinal serum into your regime, you’ll start to enjoy a more clarified complexion; however, it will take several weeks or months before you can see more dramatic results. In fact, your skin might look and feel overly dry at first before it becomes used to its potent ingredients.

At what age range should I start using retinal as part of my skincare routine?

Consider introducing retinal in your late 20s to early 30s, especially if you are beginning to notice signs of skin ageing or want to take preventive measures. This age range is typically when the natural production of collagen begins to slow down, and early signs of ageing, such as fine lines or decreased elasticity, start to appear. Starting retinal early can help to preemptively manage these changes, boosting skin renewal and maintaining a youthful-looking appearance.

How should I store retinal-based products?

To preserve the integrity and efficacy of retinal products, store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to light and heat can break down the retinal compound and reduce its effectiveness. Some products may also come in opaque or air-tight packaging to further protect them from light and air exposure. Seal the cap tightly after use to prevent the product from deteriorating and to extend its shelf life.

What other products can I find at Medik8?

Besides retinal, we offer a wide range of skincare solutions, including cleansers, moisturisers and sunscreens, all formulated with scientifically backed ingredients to target various skin concerns effectively.

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

Renew, restore and rejuvenate your skin with Medik8’s patented retinal products

If you’re looking to harness one of the most studied and trusted anti-ageing treatments, incorporating a retinal serum into your routine can help diminish the effects of ageing without looking to invasive procedures. From improving skin texture and tone to addressing issues of pigmentation and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, retinal skincare products like our Crystal Retinal will illuminate your complexion with a lit-from-within glow.

With various concentrations available that range from mild to strong — you can progress through our formulations so you can slowly and effectively introduce this active ingredient without compromising your skin.

Bring your skin back to its best with a comprehensive collection of skincare that target your skin concerns at the source. Shop our retinal range today to enjoy free nationwide shipping on all orders over $150, or if you need help selecting a suitable concentration for your skin type, feel free to reach out any time.

Crystal Retinal (Vitamin A) Skin Care

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Renew, restore and rejuvenate your skin with Medik8’s patented retinal products