Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 before and after: what to expect

What results can you expect from Crystal Retinal 20?

Crystal Retinal 20 contains 0.2% retinaldehyde, a form of vitamin A also called retinal. It is an advanced strength intended for experienced vitamin A users. The range targets the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark patches, uneven texture and loss of firmness. Think visible improvement in those features, rather than complete removal of wrinkles or pigmentation.23

One customer who gradually worked up to Crystal Retinal 20 described smoother, plumper and clearer looking skin, which is more useful detail than another declaration of eternal serum loyalty. Treat that as an individual experience, not a timetable for your own results.1

Which before and after figures belong to which strength?

The 20% wrinkle figure belongs to Crystal Retinal 6, despite the tempting coincidence with the number on Crystal Retinal 20. Strength 20 has a higher retinal concentration, but there is no precise strength 20 improvement percentage to give here. Medik8's product pages also display images labelled "after 10 days"; those are not the timeframe for the 12 week percentages above.4

How long should you give it?

Allow 4 to 12 weeks for visible vitamin A benefits rather than judging Crystal Retinal 20 after a few applications. That is general guidance for vitamin A, not a separate strength 20 deadline. Dryness can occur while skin adjusts, which is why moisturiser and gradual introduction belong in the routine.1

How do you use Crystal Retinal 20?

1. 1Patch test at least 24 hours before first use. Medik8 describes applying a small amount inside the wrist and checking for irritation before a full application.
2. 2After cleansing in the evening, apply 2 pumps to clean, dry skin on the face and neck. Allow the serum to absorb.
3. 3Follow with a moisturiser to help offset dryness as skin adjusts.
4. 4Introduce application twice weekly for the first 2 weeks, then every other night for the next 2 weeks, before nightly use.
5. 5Use sunscreen the following morning. Medik8's routine guidance specifies broad spectrum SPF 30.

Are you ready to move up to strength 20?

Crystal Retinal 20 is not the starting point for a beginner. Medik8's international guidance starts most new users at strength 3 and very sensitive users at strength 1. Its Czech introduction to strength 20 gives a more specific progression threshold: comfortably using Crystal Retinal 10 nightly for 3 months or completing 2 full tubes before considering the move. Current UK and US directions give a general minimum of one tube at your current strength before stepping up.2456

What are the before and after results of Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10?

Crystal Retinal 10 contains 0.1% retinaldehyde, compared with 0.2% in strength 20, and is positioned for advanced users. Both sit within the same range targeting visible signs of ageing. The published strength 6 percentages above should not be treated as strength 10 results either.34

What are the before and after results of Medik8 Crystal Retinal?

The clearest quantified results are the Crystal Retinal 6 figures in the table. The current range spans six strengths, from 0.01% to 0.24% retinaldehyde, so check the strength attached to a before and after claim before using it to choose your next tube.4