Shoppers say this retinol serum brightens skin better than prescription drugs

Retinoids (including retinol and other vitamin A derivatives) are one of the most popular all-around skincare ingredients. But if you’re looking to incorporate vitamin A into your skincare routine, you know that not all formulations are created equal. Plus, many retinoid products don’t list the type or potency of vitamin A they contain, so your search for the best retinol serum can quickly become a lawless wasteland.

Thankfully, brands like Medic8, the British skincare line beloved by the likes of Victoria Beckham, can give your skin the clarity it needs. Amazon shoppers are raving about the company’s flagship product, Crystal Retinal Serum, which is said to work without irritation with just one bottle. Best of all, Medic8 is currently on sale on Amazon.

Medic8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum

Medik8 Crystal Retinal is a powerful anti-aging formula designed to smooth fine lines, firm sagging skin, reduce wrinkle depth, and virtually erase dark spots. True to its name, this formula is loaded with retinal, which, like retinol, is a derivative of Vitamin A. Simply put, the main difference lies in the strength of each, with retinal being more powerful. As a result, it works faster (11 times faster, according to the brand). Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is the most powerful Vitamin A active ingredient available without a prescription.

As anyone who’s tried a retinoid knows, as your skin gets used to the ingredients, they can cause dryness, flaking, and redness. To reduce the risk of side effects, it’s best to start with a low-concentration retinoid and gradually work your way up to a stronger formula as your skin adjusts. That’s why Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Serum comes in four strengths, each clearly labeled with the exact percentage of retinal it contains. The weakest formula, at 0.01 percent, is perfect for first-time users or those with extra-sensitive skin. The strongest option contains 0.10 percent retinal and is perfect for longtime users looking for increased results.

Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

Medik8’s serum also contains soothing ingredients to further prevent dry, flaky skin, leaving skin bouncy and soft in an instant. For example, Vitamin E instantly smoothes skin, while Hyaluronic Acid absorbs moisture from the air to maintain moisture levels.

Crystal Retinal 10 Serum

Shoppers are impressed with Medic Eight’s gentle yet effective serum. One shopper says it “brightens” and “firms” the skin, smoothing the look of fine lines, and that prescription retinol “can’t compare.” One shopper with “dry, sensitive skin” said she was “shocked” by how well the serum tolerated, while another fan said the serum felt “smooth” and didn’t irritate her skin at all.

To get all the benefits of a typical retinol, but faster and gentler, get Medik8 Crystal Retinal Serum at Amazon for up to 30 percent off.

Retinol products available for purchase:

RoC Retinol Correction Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Night Cream

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum

Lilyana Naturals Retinol Cream

Neutrogena Retinol Face Moisturizer

Cosrx Retinol 0.5 Oil