Sweet Awards | January 2025

Winner: Crystal Retinal by Medik8 (in potencies 1, 3, 6, 10, 20, 24)

What is it?

The #1 face serum in the United Kingdom, featuring retinal. Retinal (or retinaldehyde) is a potent form of vitamin A present in Medik8's iconic serum, Crystal Retinal, available in different percentages, ranging from 0.01% in potency 1 to 0.24% in potency 24. Compared to retinol, it is just one step away from being converted into the active form of vitamin A (retinoic acid), which all forms of vitamin A need to become more effective on the skin. As a result, retinal acts 11 times faster on the skin than retinol and, in this case, without increasing the potential for irritation due to its unique formula. The factors that determine the effectiveness of vitamin A are concentration, stability, encapsulation method, and formulation. The brand's innovative stability system includes a recognized encapsulation technology, a patented carrot seed oil complex, and airless packaging (which prevents air from entering).

With just one bottle of Crystal Retinal, the brand clinically demonstrated younger-looking, brighter, smoother skin with fewer wrinkles, lines, spots, and improved firmness. Additionally, Medik8's patented stabilization system for retinal ensures potency and effectiveness without causing irritation, making the choice of retinal percentage important (among the six available in the brand). This serum also contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin for visible hydration and antioxidant vitamin E. It resembles more a lotion, being extremely comfortable and hydrating.

Personalization in cosmetics is a rapidly growing and much-needed trend, driven by the demand for solutions tailored to the specific needs of each skin/person. Instead of generic products, brands are increasingly investing in formulas that consider not only the skin type but also individual concerns (acne, spots, aging signs, etc.) and lifestyle. This approach creates more effective products that directly address each person's expectations. Personalization is transforming how we care for our skin, leading to better results and a unique experience. Retinal is a potent ingredient in cosmetics, making it essential to adapt the percentage to each individual.

Who can use it?

Anyone can use Crystal Retinal, except for pregnant individuals or people with skin conditions (such as rosacea and others, who should confirm with their dermatologist). Potency 1 is for very sensitive skin, 3 for beginners, 6 for regular retinal users, 10 for advanced users, 20 for very experienced users, and 24 for experts.

How to use?

After cleansing, always at night, apply 2 doses of Crystal Retinal to the face and neck. Let it absorb, then apply a restorative moisturizer.

For new retinal users, this product should be introduced into the routine gradually. During the first two weeks, use only twice a week on alternate nights and increase usage depending on the skin's response, up to nightly use (if the skin tolerates it). It is very important to always use sunscreen the following morning after using any form of vitamin A (such as retinal). The brand recommends using at least one bottle of the same potency before moving to the next level of potency.

Pregnant individuals cannot use this product.

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Written by: Joana álvares - Founder of the Beautyst.pt