# Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/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 Italy.

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

- Offers excellent skin rejuvenation for your oily skin due to high concentrations of retinal and 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, which smooth texture and minimize fine lines without exacerbating oiliness.
- While supportive ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and eclipta prostrata extract provide general hydration and soothing benefits, they are not directly targeted for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like honeysuckle flower extract and vanilla fruit extract.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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/))
- 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

- 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 1 a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is a great fit for your oily skin because it offers excellent rejuvenation using retinal and 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, which smooth texture and minimize fine lines without making your skin more oily. It is also safe for your skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like honeysuckle flower extract and vanilla fruit extract that help prevent irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41628877/), [Journal of Liposome Research, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39985147/)

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

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is a great fit for oily skin because it contains high concentrations of retinal and 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, which help smooth texture and minimize fine lines without making your skin more oily. While sodium hyaluronate and eclipta prostrata extract provide general hydration and soothing benefits, soothing components like honeysuckle flower extract and vanilla fruit extract help keep the formula safe and gentle.
Sources: [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39778604/)

### 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?

Apply this treatment in the evening after cleansing and toning, followed by your moisturizer. This timing 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 alongside niacinamide by applying niacinamide first, letting it dry, and then applying this product. Niacinamide helps keep your skin calm and balanced while this treatment smooths texture.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine. It is a great fit for your oily skin and helps smooth texture and minimize fine lines without making you more oily.
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 oily acne-prone skin?

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin and is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores, though a mild initial purging may happen as your skin adjusts. The formula smooths texture without making your skin oily, and it has a very safe profile with soothing ingredients that keep irritation low.

### 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 oily acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.10 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €34.95 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €24.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.16 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €54.50 (https://www.notino.it/medik8/crystal-retinal-1-siero-notte-con-retinale/p-16363451/)
Prices checked 10 Oct 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/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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