Versus

Medik8 Crystal Retinal - 3 Versus Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05%

Serum
Prescription
British Brand
Italian Brand

Updated on June 18, 2025

Overview

Cool Features

They both contain exfoliants and retinoid

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, reducing pores, scar healing, dark spots and better texture

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, silicones or sulfates

What's Inside

They both contain oils

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and see relevant ingredients

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 43 ingredients

Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% 11 ingredients

What's inside (and what isn't)

What's inside (and what isn't)

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 43 ingredients

Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% 11 ingredients

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

found in both products
Crystal Retinal

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Masking, Skin Conditioning

This ingredient is an emollient, solvent, and texture enhancer. It is considered a skin-softener by helping the skin prevent moisture loss.

It helps thicken a product's formula and makes it easier to spread by dissolving clumping compounds.

Caprylic Triglyceride is made by combining glycerin with coconut oil, forming a clear liquid.

While there is an assumption Caprylic Triglyceride can clog pores due to it being derived from coconut oil, there is no research supporting this.

Learn more about Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Skin Conditioning, Solvent

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

When to use

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 43 ingredients

Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% 11 ingredients

224 Routines
2% use in am
98% use in pm
58% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->
246 Routines
1% use in am
99% use in pm
70% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->

Reviews

Here's what our community thinks

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 43 ingredients

4.60
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
What people say
Expensive 60% Absorbs Well 40% Broke Me Out 40%

Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% 11 ingredients

5.00
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
What people say
Drying 50% Great Value 50% Works Well 50%