# Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Medik8](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/medik8)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent skin rejuvenation for your combination skin, as retinal and 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid promote cell turnover and collagen production, effectively addressing oily shine.
- The formula is also suitable for your skin type due to the presence of these ingredients, which provide superb desquamation regulation and antioxidant activity.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Retinal A Form Of Vitamin A, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Squalane, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Dissolving microneedles loaded with 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid and acetyl hexapeptide-8 achieved higher cumulative transdermal delivery than aqueous solutions and significantly reduced photoaging signs while restoring oxidative balance in a UV/D-galactose-induced mouse model. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41628877/))
- Liposomal formulation of 3-O-ethyl-L-ascorbic acid enhanced skin retention and reduced UV-induced extracellular matrix degradation in skin explants compared to free EAA. ([Journal of Liposome Research, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39985147/))
- Concurrent treatment with 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid and cannabigerol in UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes prevents membrane structure alterations, promotes cell survival, enhances antioxidant enzyme activity and GSH- and Trx-dependent systems, reduces lipid and protein oxidative modifications, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects. ([Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/))
- Optimized transfersomes loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hyaluronic acid increased cell viability while reducing lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS, and MMP expression in HaCaT cells, and exhibited higher skin permeation and deposition compared to plain EGCG. ([Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this serum as an exceptional entry-level retinal for sensitive or reactive skin, noting visible improvements in skin texture and brightness without the irritation typical of retinoids. Many reviewers report significant reductions in hormonal breakouts and fine lines, describing the formula as a "game changer" that leaves skin smoother, plumper, and clearer.

- Liked: Gentle on skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs fast (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Mild dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 a great fit for combination skin?

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is a great fit for combination skin because retinal and vitamin C help speed up cell turnover and collagen production to manage oily shine. These ingredients also provide antioxidant protection and keep skin smooth without irritation, backed by a safe formula free of harsh additives.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

This serum is a great fit for your combination skin because retinal and 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid help speed up cell turnover and collagen production to keep oily shine under control. These ingredients also help regulate shedding and provide antioxidant benefits safely without causing irritation.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/)

### What does Retinal do for combination skin?

Retinal helps smooth the skin and reduces signs of aging or breakouts when used regularly. It is unlikely to cause severe irritation when introduced gradually, keeping combination skin feeling calm and smooth.
Sources: [European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219827/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21649816/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Putting it in the evening helps keep your skin safe around sun exposure while working on your combination skin.

### Can I use this serum with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first to calm and hydrate your skin, followed by this serum in your evening routine. This combination helps smooth your skin and manage oily shine while maintaining an excellent safety profile without harsh irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, starting once a week and slowly increasing frequency as your skin feels comfortable. It helps renew combination skin and manage oily shine safely without harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/), [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This treatment is a great fit for combination skin and is unlikely to clog pores, though initial purging is a low risk when starting out. It helps renew skin and manage oily shine safely without harsh ingredients.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (coumarin). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 1,348.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 241.94 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B07Y5PJ729?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: AED 234.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.ae/p/medik8-crystal-retinal-1-serum-30ml/12097971/)
Prices checked 13 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isododecane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ppg-12 Smdi Copolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Titanium Dioxide, Squalane, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Cyclodextrin, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Alumina, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Disodium Edta, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Stearic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil Carrot Seed Oil, Sodium Polyaspartate, Climbazole, Retinal, Dipteryx Odorata Extract Tonka Extract Bean Extract, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Rubus Chamaemorus Seed Oil, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Pentylene Glycol, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract Vanilla Fruit Extract, Decylene Glycol, Bht, 1,2-Hexanediol, Coumarin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/combination-skin (this page)