At 62, beauty expert and This Morning contributor Nadine Baggott maintains enviable skin, which she credits to a carefully curated skincare routine featuring a popular anti-ageing serum from British brand Medik8.
Nadine's Skincare Philosophy
"Vitamin C and vitamin A are the two long term investments I make for my skin, and the only way I can prove that is because I don't have the skin for a woman my age. I deserve much worse skin for what I put it through when I was younger," Nadine told The Mirror in 2024. "I don't use prescription skincare as I have pretty normal, mature skin, but I have a big soft spot for a retinal. Retinal is the strongest form of vitamin A you can get on the market prior to prescription skincare and my favourite is this one from Medik8."
Medik8 Crystal Retinal: Features and Benefits
Nadine is referring to Medik8's Crystal Retinal, which costs £69 for a 30ml tube providing about 100 applications. It is available in six strengths, from sensitive skin to expert users, and a quick quiz on the website helps determine the best option. Medik8 claims the serum is clinically proven to visibly smooth stubborn wrinkles, brighten dark spots, decongest, and firm skin without causing irritation. Retinal is said to work 11 times faster than the more familiar retinol, according to the Express.
Crystal Retinal also contains hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the upper layers of the skin, as well as vitamin E and glycerin to keep skin well-hydrated. Medik8 advises doing a patch test at least 24 hours before first use, then phasing the serum into your skincare routine gradually.
Alternative Retinal Products
For those seeking alternatives, Arencia Retinal Booster Shot costs £18 from Boots for 30ml. The brand says the clinically-proven formula helps refine pores, soften fine lines, and encourage firmer, plump-looking skin. Alternatively, there is 20% off Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal at Superdrug, now £11.99 for 30ml. It tackles the loss of protein, collagen, and hyaluronic acid by blending ginseng extract with retinal to boost skin elasticity and brightness while minimizing irritation.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Crystal Retinal earns an overall rating of 4.9 stars from more than 8,500 Medik8 customers. One said: "Absolutely the best. Unlike any other retinal creams in the market. This product is very gentle and effective." Another added: "My complexion has completely changed since using this product. My skin looks so fresh and has definitely reduced fine lines and wrinkles in the matter of weeks." A third commented: "I'm in love with this retinal - I started with 3, then 6, and now I'm gonna start using the 10!"
While some report 'no visible result', many say they have seen significant improvements in skin texture and appearance with Crystal Retinal. One customer was delighted with results after just a week, stating: "It might be a bit pricier but it delivers results and that's what matters!"
Prices correct at time of publishing.
