# Medik8 CRYSTAL RETINAL 3 for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this formula leverages retinaldehyde to promote cell turnover and regulate sebum production, addressing your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts while also managing oiliness.
- Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E provide essential hydration and soothing benefits, ensuring a comfortable experience for your skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of beneficial components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinaldehyde, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Squalane, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Alpha-tocopherol loaded nanostructured lipid carrier gel provided enhanced moisturizing and anti-aging properties in human volunteers over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32129554/))
- Tocopherol succinate-loaded ethosomal gel increased skin deposition, stability, moisture, and mechanical properties in 13 human subjects compared to a control gel over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35274433/))
- Topical application of tocopherol succinate ethosomal gel decreased erythema, melanin, and sebum levels while improving moisture content and skin elasticity in 34 human women. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/))
- 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 an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- 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 retinoid for sensitive skin, noting visible improvements in skin texture, brightness, and acne reduction without the irritation typically associated with vitamin A. It is frequently described as a "game changer" for smoothing fine lines and clearing congestion, though the high price point is a common contention.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant experience (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mild dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Orange color transfer (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 is a great fit because it uses retinaldehyde to help clear breakouts and manage extra oil by speeding up cell turnover. Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E also add comfortable moisture and calm your skin, making it very safe and gentle to use.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32129554/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35274433/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinaldehyde is the key ingredient that makes this serum a great fit because it helps speed up skin renewal and manage oiliness to reduce breakouts. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin further support this skin type by adding lightweight hydration and keeping the face comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/)

### What does Retinal do for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinal helps clear clogged pores, reduces bumps and pimples, and helps balance oil production for oily, acne-prone skin. It is generally well tolerated when used regularly as part of an acne skincare routine.
Sources: [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/), [European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219827/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before your moisturizer. Putting it at night keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first and following with this formula in your evening routine. This pairing is unlikely to cause irritation while helping to manage oiliness and clear breakouts.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment fits your oily acne-prone skin well and is used in the evening routine. Start using it once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and results look good, you may carefully use it more often.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

Medik8 CRYSTAL RETINAL 3 is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because it uses retinaldehyde to speed up cell turnover and balance oil production, helping to clear breakouts and manage oiliness without clogging pores. Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E add comfortable hydration, and the formula is unlikely to cause irritation.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$114.99 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0BHX7NYJG?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$79.00 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/crystal-retinal-age-defying-vitamin-night-serum-for-wrinkles-P525930?skuId=3011442)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Retinaldehyde, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol Vitamin E, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide, Lecithin, Squalane, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum
## 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-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin