Whether you read our glowing reviews below or scroll through r/SkincareAddiction, you’ll quickly understand why the best Medik8 products are top-shelf staples of the skin-care-obsessed crowd. This UK-based company has earned a devoted following among dermatologists and beauty editors as a science-forward brand that uses proprietary stabilization technology to boost products’ potency and efficacy, keeping them fresher longer.
At the heart of Medik8 is its signature “CSA” philosophy: vitamin C in the morning, SPF daily, and vitamin A at night. But its entire lineup reflects the same thoughtful, research-driven approach. Plus, all the formulas are made in their own lab—a quality-control measure we always appreciate.
Our Top Medik8 Products
Our editors and experts rave about Medik8’s glow-boosting serums and retinoid-infused moisturizers, especially since some of their products deliver visible results in as little as two weeks. To help you find the best of the best, we’ve tested almost every Medik8 product—and the results are in. Keep reading to discover our skin-care shelf mainstays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Slough Your Stuff: Crystal Retinal 3
Why we love it: Unlike retinol, which needs two conversion steps to become active in the skin, retinal (a.k.a. retinaldehyde) needs only one, making it faster and more effective. Medik8’s Crystal Retinal offers it in six progressive strengths that range from 0.01% to .24% retinaldehyde, so you can slowly increase the potency as you go through each bottle—gradually building your skin’s tolerance to avoid irritation.
Level 3 (the middle level of potency in the line) is ideal for beginners, delivering a visible glow with minimal irritation or flaking. If you have super-sensitive skin, start with level 1. “The retinal is also formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to buffer any potential irritation, and the texture is creamy and fast-absorbing,” Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, told Allure.