# Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry skin is provided by glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane, which offer humectant and emollient actions to hydrate and smooth your skin.
- The formulation offers excellent skin rejuvenation due to retinal and 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, promoting cell turnover and collagen production to support your dry or flaky skin concerns.
- There are no risks of irritation for your dry and sensitive skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients, and the presence of soothing ingredients like squalane and hyaluronate.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## 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 this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is a great fit because glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane hydrate and smooth your skin while preventing irritation. Additionally, retinal and vitamin C help renew your skin by supporting cell turnover.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane hydrate and smooth your dry skin, while retinal and 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid support cell turnover and collagen production. At the same time, the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like squalane and hyaluronate mean this serum is unlikely to irritate sensitive skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Retinal do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinal may help smooth fine lines and improve skin texture, but for dry and sensitive skin it is unlikely to be a good fit on its own. This skin type needs products that include gentle hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473963/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and helps avoid extra sun sensitivity.

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

You can use this treatment alongside niacinamide by applying niacinamide first and letting it absorb before putting on this product. This approach helps keep your dry and sensitive skin calm while layering active ingredients.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening, starting once a week and slowly using it more often as your skin gets used to it. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane hydrate and smooth your skin while lowering the likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

It is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, but mild initial purging may occur as retinal speeds up cell turnover. Squalane and glycerin help keep your dry sensitive skin comfortable while adjusting to the treatment.

### Is it 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 dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $56.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y8Q6BNF?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 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/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medik8/crystal-retinal-1/for/dry-sensitive-skin