As someone who is wary of retinol (I’ve had more than a few bad reactions in the past), I knew I needed a formula that I completely trusted, which is where Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum comes in. This beginner-strength retinol has been recommended to me heaps of times by dermatologists and also contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin and vitamin E to hydrate.

After cleansing and drying the skin, apply a pea-sized amount of your retinol. If your skin is sensitive (or you’ve never used retinol before) you can apply a moisturiser first, before the retinol, to act as a barrier. This will lessen the results of the retinol but is a good way to slowly introduce your skin to the ingredient.

Formulated with 0.01% stabilised retinal, a powerful derivative of vitamin A, Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum works to stimulate collagen and clarify the skin – meaning stronger, smoother skin with a brighter, healthier-looking appearance.

Shop Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum at Lookfantastic, £45

“I’ve been skin cycling for the past 2 months and my skin’s never looked better“