Medik8 Crystal Retinal vs Geek & Gorgeous

What are the actual differences?

Those prices come from different markets, so they are not a currency matched cost comparison. Medik8's UK and US ingredient lists also differ; check the packaging you are buying, especially if avoiding a particular ingredient. Crystal Retinal's numbers identify positions on its strength ladder, not percentages printed without a decimal point, because skincare names already have enough administrative duties.1

Which should you pick?

Choose Crystal Retinal if you want a clearly labelled progression: 1 is positioned for sensitive skin, 3 for beginners, 6 for regular users, 10 for advanced users, 20 for experienced users and 24 for experts. Medik8 advises finishing at least one tube at your current strength before moving up. The ladder offers options, not an obligation to reach the roof.4

Choose A Game 10 if you already tolerate retinoids and prefer a light emulsion, including for combination or oily skin. Geek & Gorgeous specifically suggests it after A Game 5. Its fragrance free positioning is also a clearer match if avoiding scented formulas is part of your decision.2

How do you use each one?

1. 1For Crystal Retinal, patch test at least 24 hours before first use.
2. 2Cleanse in the evening. With A Game 10, apply any liquid or gel products before the retinal.
3. 3Apply your chosen product using its own amount: two pumps of Crystal Retinal to face and neck, or a pea sized amount of A Game 10 to the face. Allow Crystal Retinal to absorb.
4. 4Follow with moisturizer.
5. 5Introduce Crystal Retinal twice weekly for two weeks, then every other night for two weeks, then nightly. Introduce A Game 10 two to three times weekly for two weeks, then every other evening for two weeks, then nightly only if tolerated.
6. 6Use sunscreen the next morning. Geek & Gorgeous specifies SPF 30 or higher.

Will Medik8 give better or faster results?

Both use retinal, a form of vitamin A that needs one conversion to become retinoic acid, the active form used by skin cells; retinol needs two. That shared mechanism does not tell you which finished formula will deliver better results. A more elaborate product name is not a stopwatch.3

Crystal Retinal 6 was tested on 33 participants over 12 weeks, with a reported 20% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots and an 11% increase in firmness. Treat 12 weeks as a useful assessment point for that formula, rather than expecting the same result from every strength. There is no settled timeline for choosing a winner between these two products.4

Who should be careful?

Do not use A Game 10 during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, Geek & Gorgeous advises consulting your physician before use.2

Do not assume a facial retinal is suitable around the eyes. Facial retinoids can be too strong for that delicate area; targeted eye formulas are a separate category. If use around the eyes causes irritation, stop and seek advice from a dermatologist.5

If acne is your main reason for buying retinal, seek GP advice for deep, painful or scarring spots, or acne that is not improving with self treatment. Prescription acne retinoids such as adapalene and tretinoin are distinct from these cosmetic retinal products.6