Crystal Retinal 1 — Reddit Reviews
by Medik8
Updated August 7, 2026
Gentler alternative to tretinoin that helps build retinoid tolerance over time
What the community says
A gentler retinaldehyde option usually recommended for slow introduction to retinoids, often dosed twice weekly initially with mild purging and a thicker cream texture that some find moisturizing but can exacerbate dryness or irritation for sensitive and dry skin types.
What this means for you
Backed by 15 threads from r/koreanskincare, r/SkincareAddiction and 4 more.
Read the threads ↓What people love
- Gentler alternative to tretinoin that helps build retinoid tolerance over time
- Thicker cream texture provides some barrier hydration, making it less drying than many retinols
- Frequently discounted compared to other retinaldehyde products, offering decent value when working up strength
Watch out for
- Can cause mild purging especially in first weeks, with forehead bumps and small whiteheads reported
- Texture is noticeably thicker and heavier than many serums, which some users find greasy or pore-clogging
- Not suitable for very sensitive or dry skin as irritation, redness, and barrier disruption have been noted
Product details
Skin Type
Key Ingredients
Where to buy
Real Reddit threads
15 threads from r/koreanskincare, r/SkincareAddiction +4 more
“Medik8 - I've reached crystal retinal 10 in terms of intensity;”
Mentioned
“I've reached crystal retinal 10 in terms of intensity;”
Mentioned
“What other retinols hve u tried and how would you compare those to the seoul one”
Mentioned
“i used Medik8 retinal for the last 3 years getting up to strength 24.”
Positive
“The retinal use for 3 years must’ve helped prime me.”
Positive
“medik8 crystal retinal 3 (evening)”
Mentioned
“biologique recherche p50 (twice daily)”
Mentioned
“sunscreen 50”
Mentioned
“I use prescription tret and alternate with Medik8 retinal 10.”
Mentioned
“As for tret/retinoids? They didn't do anything on my filaments”
Mentioned
“but they did help clear my skin and even out my tone”
Mentioned
“Use a specific retinoid around the eyes like Medik8 RETINAL or BOJ eye serum.”
Mentioned
“Yeah, I think the standard Tretinoin, Vitamin C, and peptide stack for half a year would yield massive improvements.”
Mentioned
“I have also tried medik® retinal 1 but it only made the texture worse and more uncomfortable.”
Cautionary
“it only made the texture worse”
Cautionary
“and more uncomfortable”
Cautionary
