Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 vs The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Both serums contain Hyaluronic Acid, but only Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 adds a targeted active: Retinaldehyde. That's the main thing to weigh.
A stabilised retinaldehyde serum (0.06%) with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, sitting between retinol and prescription tretinoin in strength. Faster-acting than retinol with good tolerability; part of a tiered ladder you climb gradually.
A multi-weight hyaluronic acid serum with vitamin B5 for layered hydration. A no-frills, affordable HA serum; apply to damp skin and seal with moisturiser to avoid the dryness HA can cause in low humidity.
Which should you choose?
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 goes further with Retinaldehyde, which The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum doesn't have. If you only need Hyaluronic Acid, The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum covers it; if you want Retinaldehyde as well, choose Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6. Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 is the better fit for fine lines, preventing sun damage and rough texture; The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum for dehydration, dryness and dullness. On price, The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is the less expensive option (Budget versus Luxury). Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 is flagged evening only; The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is flagged morning or evening.
What they share
This hero active appears in both formulas:
Ingredient stacks, side by side
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 — top of the list
- Caprylic/Capric…~3–10%
- Dimethicone~2–6%
- Retinal~1.5–4%
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum — top of the list
- Sodium Hyaluron…~3–10%
- Hydrolyzed Hyal…~2–6%
- Sodium Hyaluron…~1.5–4%
- Panthenol~1–2%
● marks ingredients that appear near the top of both lists. Percentages are positional estimates from INCI order, not disclosed doses.
The specs
| Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 | The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Serum | Serum |
| Price tier | Luxury | Budget |
| Best for | Fine Lines, Photoaging Prevention, Rough Texture | Dehydration, Dryness, Dullness |
| Usage notes | Evening only | Morning or evening |
| Shared hero actives | Hyaluronic Acid | |
Common questions
Is the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 or The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum better?
What's the difference between the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 and The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum?
Are the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 and The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum dupes for each other?
Can I use the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 and The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum together?
Related comparisons
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