Medik8

Build a Routine with Medik8

Medik8 organises its entire range around one framework it calls CSA: vitamin C and sunscreen in the morning, vitamin A at night. Everything else in the routine supports those three steps.

Crystal Retinal is the vitamin A line, and it uses retinaldehyde rather than retinol. Retinaldehyde converts to retinoic acid in one step instead of two, so it works faster at lower strengths. The numbered ladder runs from Crystal Retinal 1 for beginners and sensitive skin upward, and the intended path is to move up a rung only once the current strength causes no irritation.

For vitamin C, C-Tetra uses an oil-soluble derivative that suits reactive skin, while Super C Ferulic is the higher-strength option. Liquid Peptides sits underneath both for hydration and firmness. Add masks and body care as needed, or browse the women's Medik8 edit.

Medik8 FAQs

What is the difference between retinal and retinol?

Both are forms of vitamin A. Retinol needs two conversion steps in the skin before it becomes active retinoic acid, while retinaldehyde needs only one. That makes retinal work faster at a lower concentration, which is why a Crystal Retinal 3 can deliver results comparable to a much stronger retinol. Both sit in the Medik8 skincare range.

Which Crystal Retinal strength should I start with?

Start at Crystal Retinal 1 if you have never used vitamin A or have sensitive skin, and Crystal Retinal 3 if you have used retinol without irritation. Use it two or three nights a week at first, then build to nightly. Move up a strength only when the current one causes no dryness or flaking.

Can I use vitamin C and retinal together?

Yes, but at opposite ends of the day. Vitamin C belongs in the morning, where it works alongside sunscreen against environmental damage. Retinal belongs at night. Layering them in the same routine increases the chance of irritation without improving results, and the same applies to stacking acid exfoliators on a retinal night.

Does Medik8 suit sensitive skin?

The range is formulated for all skin types, including sensitive, which is the reason for the graduated strengths. Introduce one active at a time, leave two weeks between additions, and always follow with a moisturiser and daily SPF from the wider skincare range.