Medik8’s new strength formula:
Crystal Retinal 24

Medik8’s new strength formula:
Crystal Retinal 24

Introducing the pinnacle of Medik8’s retinoid innovation - Crystal Retinal 24. Designed for expert users, this is the highest strength in the Crystal Retinal range. With 0.24% crystal-encapsulated retinal, it acts 11x faster than standard retinol*, visibly smoothing fine lines, brightening the complexion, and firming the skin. Medik8’s patented stability system ensures potent results, while encapsulation technology minimises irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Crystal Retinal 24 is ideal for those ready to progress through our unique ladder of 6 retinal strengths (0.01 - 0.24% retinaldehyde). It allows users to achieve powerful, visible results without the irritation often associated with higher concentrations. Developed based on user feedback, this formula offers an accessible yet potent age-defying solution. As Dr. Dendy Engelman, Medik8 Global Ambassador, says: “Crystal Retinal sets a new standard, offering the strongest over-the-counter option available."

^{*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378}

Benefits of Using a 0.24% Encapsulated Retinaldehyde Serum

✓ Faster Results:
Retinaldehyde is known for acting 11x faster than standard retinol*, making it a potent choice for those looking to achieve visible skin improvements quickly. The 0.24% concentration allows for rapid skin renewal, visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. In fact, 90% agree Crystal Retinal 24 is the most powerful anti-ageing product they have ever used.**

^{*Proven via independent clinical study on the Crystal Retinal ladder tested on 30 participants over 24 weeks.
**Proven via independent clinical study on the Crystal Retinal ladder tested on 30 participants over 18 weeks.}

✓ Patented Retinal Stability:
One-of-a-kind carrot seed oil complex that protects retinal from degradation, for optimal effectiveness in the skin.

✓ Clinically Proven Efficacy:
Targets deep-set wrinkles and loss of firmness, delivering smoother, brighter, firmer-looking skin.

✓ Crystal-Encapsulation Delivery System:
Gradually releases retinal overnight, maximising comfort and minimising irritation.

✓ Minimal Irritation:
The powerful yet fragile retinal molecule is protected by a crystal encapsulation system that works to blanket the retinal, retaining its power and ensuring it’s gently released into the skin throughout the night to minimise potential irritation.

Strength Comparison: 0.24% Retinal vs. Tretinoin

Tretinoin, a prescription-only vitamin A, is known for being up to 20 times stronger than retinol for improving acne, wrinkles, and photoaging but often comes with side effects like redness, peeling, and increased sensitivity. The 0.24% retinaldehyde in Crystal Retinal 24 offers a compelling alternative for those seeking powerful, prescription-level results without the need for a prescription or the associated risks of irritation.

Retinaldehyde is only one conversion step away from retinoic acid (the active form of vitamin A), making it significantly more effective than retinol, which requires two conversion steps. This makes Crystal Retinal 24 an excellent option for users who want to avoid the harsher effects of tretinoin but still desire a strong anti-ageing solution.

Availability of the 0.24% Retinal Formula

Given its potency, Crystal Retinal 24 is primarily recommended for expert vitamin A users who have built up a tolerance to retinoids. It’s available both online and through Medik8 professionals. However, for those new to this strength Medik8 recommends consulting with dermatologists to ensure the right fit for your skin needs, maximising the benefits of this powerful serum.

How does it compare to other high-strength retinal products?

Crystal Retinal 24 sets itself apart as one of the most advanced over-the-counter retinaldehyde products on the market. While other brands may offer similar retinal concentrations, Medik8’s Crystal Retinal 24 stands out for its patented retinal stability technology and comprehensive clinical backing, ensuring both efficacy and minimal irritation.

CRYSTAL STANDARD CRITERIA	CRYSTAL RETINAL	SOME RETINAL SERUMS	MOST RETINAL SERUMS
Clinically-Proven Results (Smoother, brighter, firmer skin OR results in one tube)	✓	✓
Ladder of Strengths For progressive results	✓
HPLC Proven & Patented Stability For maximum power until the last drop	✓
Kind to Skin Formula Powerful results with/meets minimal irritation	✓	✓
Formulated in-house by the experts/pioneers in vItamin A From a brand you can trust/trusted by dermatologists	✓
Supporting Ingredients Hyaluronic acid & vitamin E help hydrate and plump the look of skin	✓	✓

The science behind CR24

Crystal Retinal 24 represents the pinnacle of retinaldehyde innovation, designed for those advancing their skincare journey. This formula features 0.24% retinaldehyde, a potent form of vitamin A that’s proven to work up to 11x faster than traditional retinol*, delivering ground-breaking visible improvements in skin texture and tone. Medik8's unique crystal encapsulation technology ensures the retinaldehyde remains stable and effective until the last drop, unlike other formulations that may degrade over time. By gradually releasing the active ingredient into the skin over time, this technology minimises potential irritation while maximising benefits, offering a high-strength solution that smooths, brightens, and firms the skin with exceptional precision.

^{*Proven via independent clinical study on the Crystal Retinal ladder tested on 30 participants over 24 weeks.}

The formula is then reinforced with a unique patented stabilisation complex, based on the protective power of carrot seed oil. This ensures the retinal is stabilised and highly effective throughout its entire life cycle - from raw material until it reaches the skin. Finally, the formula and its stability system are enclosed within an airless, aluminium-lined tube which protects against the degrading effects of oxygen, heat and light. The final result? Market-leading retinal stability that delivers results that continue to be effective until the last drop - as validated through an independent HPLC stability study testing Crystal Retinal against other products in the market within accelerated (stress-tested) conditions.

How does Crystal Retinal 24 compare with Crystal Retinal 20?

Crystal Retinal 24 (CR24) and Crystal Retinal 20 (CR20) are both powerful retinaldehyde formulations, but they cater to different levels of skincare experience. CR20 contains 0.2% retinaldehyde, ideal for experienced vitamin A users or those new to high-strength vitamin A. In contrast, CR24 features a higher concentration of 0.24% retinaldehyde, offering more intensive results for expert users.

Our unique new ladder of 6 strengths means you can experience continued visible benefits as your skin builds up tolerance. From vitamin A beginners (CR3) to very experienced users (CR24), there’s a strength for everyone. The increase in strength from CR20 to CR24 provides a more pronounced effect on skin texture, brightness, and firmness. To ensure optimal results and minimise irritation, users should have used at least one tube of CR20 before progressing to CR24. This progression allows the skin to build tolerance, making CR24 suitable for those who have already acclimated to the lower strength and are seeking advanced, age-defying benefits.

CR24 vs CR20/ CR10/ CR6/ CR3/ CR1

When comparing Crystal Retinal 24 with other strengths in the Crystal Retinal range, it’s clear that each formulation is tailored to different stages of skincare progression and user experience. Here’s a breakdown of how CR24 stands out among its predecessors:

Strength	Retinaldehyde Concentration	Key Features	Ideal For
CR1	0.01%	Introductory strength; gentle for sensitive skin or nervous retinoid users	Beginners and sensitive skin who want to incorporate a gentle vitamin A into their routine; without compromising on results.
CR3	0.03%	Low-strength for initial retinoid users	For new vitamin A users
CR6	0.06%	Moderate strength; builds tolerance	Regular users, normal skin
CR10	0.1%	High-strength; significant results	Advanced users, combination skin
CR20	0.2%	Advanced strength; intensive results	For experienced users
CR24	0.24%	Our highest strength for the most powerful results without a prescription	Expert users, oily or resilient skin

Concentration & Delivery

CR24, with 0.24% retinaldehyde, represents the highest concentration in the Crystal Retinal lineup, providing the very best in clinically-proven, age-defying results. It features Medik8’s advanced crystal encapsulation technology, which ensures stability and gradual release, offering more consistent and effective delivery compared to lower strengths.

Benefits & Ideal Users

CR24 is designed for expert users who have built tolerance through the use of lower strengths and are seeking stronger, faster age-defying results. It’s best suited for individuals with oily or resilient skin types and those looking to address advanced signs of ageing. Conversely, lower strengths like CR1 and CR3 are better for those new to retinoids or with sensitive skin, offering a more gradual introduction to retinoid benefits.

Progressive Use:

Whether you have sensitive skin, are new to retinal, or are an experienced retinal user, our ladder has the perfect strength for you. As users advance through the Crystal Retinal range, they can expect progressively enhanced results. Starting with lower concentrations allows the skin to adjust and build tolerance, paving the way for the use of higher strengths like CR24, which delivers more pronounced improvements in skin texture, firmness, and overall radiance.

How to use Crystal Retinal 24?

For New Vitamin A Users:

1. Start Gradually:
If you're new to vitamin A, begin with a lower strength like Crystal Retinal 1 or 3 to build up tolerance. After using 1 full tube of CR20, you can transition to Crystal Retinal 24.


2. Frequency:
Apply 2-3 times a week initially to see how your skin reacts. Gradually increase to every other night or daily use, as your skin builds tolerance.


3. Application:
Use a pea-sized amount in the evening on clean, dry skin. Apply evenly across the face, avoiding the eye area.

For Expert Users:

1. Incorporate into Routine:
As an experienced retinoid user, you can use Crystal Retinal 24 nightly. Apply after cleansing and before moisturising.


2. Frequency:
For advanced users, nightly use is ideal for maximum benefits. Monitor skin response and adjust if needed.


3. Application:
Gently squeeze the tube as you activate the pump to ensure every drop is dispensed. Apply to your face and neck, avoiding sensitive areas like around the eyes.

Tips to Minimise Irritation and Maximise Benefits:

• Introduce Gradually:
Even for experienced users, introduce Crystal Retinal 24 gradually. Start with every other night and increase frequency as your skin adjusts.


• Moisturise:
Follow with a deeply nourishing moisturiser to help reduce dryness and irritation. Medik8’s Advanced Night Restore works perfectly alongside Crystal Retinal.


• Avoid Mixing:
Be cautious when using other potent ingredients like AHAs/BHAs or Vitamin C in the same routine.

Usage Instructions and Precautions:

• Application Time:
At Medik8 we keep it simple. We believe every skincare regime should be based on our CSA philosophy; vitamin C and sunscreen by day, and vitamin A by night, as retinoids can increase sun sensitivity.


• Precautions:
If irritation occurs, reduce frequency of use and consult a skincare professional. Avoid using other strong actives in conjunction.

Complementary Products:

• Cleansers:
Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser like Medik8’s Surface Radiance Cleanse.


• Serums:
Pair with hydrating serums such as Liquid Peptides to boost hyaluronic acid levels.


• Moisturisers:
Follow with a nourishing night cream like Advanced Night Restore that leaves the skin feeling plump and pillow-soft.

Cautions and considerations

Crystal Retinal 24's high potency requires extra caution. Avoid initially using it with other strong actives like glycolic acid or high-strength retinoids to prevent irritation. Possible side effects include redness and dryness—start gradually and monitor your skin's response. Discontinue use if severe irritation occurs. Medik8 recommends avoiding excessive sun exposure and using a broad-spectrum SPF during the day to protect your skin.