Crystal Retinal — Reddit Reviews
by Medik8
Updated August 10, 2026
Graduated strength system eases skin acclimation from 0.01% to 0.24% retinaldehyde
What the community says
Encapsulated retinaldehyde at multiple strengths offers a gentler, step-up alternative to tretinoin with solid anti-aging and acne improvements but can trigger dryness and irritation, especially on sensitive or dry skin.
What this means for you
Backed by 30 threads from r/30PlusSkinCare, r/koreanskincare and 5 more.
Read the threads ↓What people love
- Graduated strength system eases skin acclimation from 0.01% to 0.24% retinaldehyde
- More effective and less irritating than standard retinol according to many users
- Encapsulation reduces spicule irritants for smoother application
Watch out for
- Higher strengths often require good moisturizing to avoid dryness and redness
- Can cause burning and prolonged sensitivity on very sensitive or reactive skin
- Some users find the creamier texture too heavy or moisturizing, reducing perceived efficacy
Product details
Skin Type
Key Ingredients
Where to buy
Real Reddit threads
Medik8 Crystal Retinal on Reddit, in one place — 30 threads from r/30PlusSkinCare, r/koreanskincare and 5 more, summarized.
“I have a friend who used Medik8 and liked it.”
Mentioned
“But if you're looking for retinal”
Mentioned
“used Medik8 and liked it”
Mentioned
“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
“I have started getting a ton of compliments on my skin when I started using medik8’s retinal.”
Positive
“medik8’s retinal”
Positive
“I like medik8 crystal retinal- started at 1 and used 3”
Positive
“it really helped with texture and congestion”
Positive
“I’m currently pregnant so can’t use it anymore”
Positive
“I’m on week three using the Medik8 6 retinal and no issues with worsening dry eye so far.”
Positive
“I recently stopped tret and am trying Medik8’s retinal”
Positive
“Not sure if it’s the new additions or not being on tret.”
Positive
“I recently stopped tret and am trying Medik8’s retinal to see if I get results without exacerbating my eyes.”
Positive
“I’m on week three using the Medik8 6 retinal and no issues with worsening dry eye so far.”
Positive
“Not sure if it’s the new additions or not being on tret.”
Positive
Dupes & Alternatives
Skin1004
Madagascar Centella Asiatica Ampoule
Better for Redness / Irritation
6 shared traits
410 mentions
