Crystal Retinal — Reddit Reviews
by Medik8
Updated August 18, 2026
Multiple strengths allow tailored use and minimize irritation risk
What the community says
This encapsulated retinaldehyde serum provides OTC retinoid strength with multiple concentrations to build tolerance gradually. It suits users moving up from retinol who want better results but dislike tretinoin irritation. However, dry, sensitive skin may experience redness and dryness requiring slow introduction.
What this means for you
Backed by 30 threads from r/30PlusSkinCare, r/koreanskincare and 5 more.
Read the threads ↓What people love
- Multiple strengths allow tailored use and minimize irritation risk
- Gentler alternative to tretinoin with proven user tolerance
- Non-greasy texture absorbs well even under moisturizer
Watch out for
- Can cause redness, dryness, and irritation, especially initially
- Not ideal for very sensitive or dry skin types
- Relatively expensive compared to typical OTC retinols
Product details
Skin Type
Key Ingredients
Where to buy
Which strength Reddit talks about
Five strengths of Medik8 Crystal Retinal come up on Reddit. Here’s where the 89 discussions actually land.
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Real Reddit threads — 106 mentions across 30 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
425 mentions
