Everything You Need to Know About Using a Retinal Eye Cream

Written by: Radhika Sen

Updated on: 25th April 2025

Retinal eye creams are a game-changer for tackling fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. Unlike traditional retinol, retinal (retinaldehyde) works up to 11 times faster* while remaining gentle on the delicate eye area. Since the skin around the eyes is four times thinner than the skin on the rest of the body and more prone to irritation, facial retinoids aren’t always suitable. That’s where specialised eye creams come in. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about using a retinal eye cream for optimal results.

*G. Siegenthaler et al., Retinol and retinal metabolism, Biochemical Journal, 1990, 268, pp 371-378.

Using retinoids under the eyes

Vitamin A is one of the most effective ingredients for targeting signs of ageing around the eyes. It works by boosting collagen production, accelerating skin renewal, and improving skin tone and texture - helping to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. Retinol, a popular form of vitamin A, has long been used in skincare, but retinal (retinaldehyde) offers even faster results with minimal irritation, making it ideal for the delicate eye area. Unlike acids, it’s able to bind itself to receptors within skin cells, revving up the production of new cells so much that the top layer sheds to reveal brighter, healthier skin beneath it.

Since the skin around the eyes has fewer oil-producing glands and a weaker moisture barrier, using a specialised retinal eye cream ensures maximum benefits while keeping irritation to a minimum. Consistent use can help smooth crow’s feet, reduce puffiness, and brighten dark circles for a more youthful appearance.

Why use a targeted eye cream with retinal?

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, making it more prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and irritation. Standard retinoids, like retinol, require multiple conversion steps before becoming active in the skin, which can sometimes lead to increased sensitivity, especially in such a fragile area.

Retinal (retinaldehyde) is a next-generation form of vitamin A that works faster than retinol while being gentler on the skin. With fewer conversion steps, it delivers visible results with less risk of irritation, making it a superior choice for eye care. Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye is specifically designed for the delicate eye area, combining the power of retinal with a soothing delivery system to maximise benefits without compromise.

How to apply retinal around the eyes

Incorporating a retinal eye cream into your evening routine is essential for maximising results while minimising irritation. Since vitamin A derivatives can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, it is recommended for PM use only. Below is the best method for applying retinal eye creams effectively.

Step one:
Choose the right product

Select an eye cream specifically formulated with retinaldehyde for the delicate eye area, such as Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye. Facial retinoids may be too strong for this sensitive skin.

Step two:
Gently cleanse the face

Use a gentle cleanser free from active exfoliants like acids to avoid unnecessary irritation. This is especially important for beginners starting a vitamin A routine.

Step three: Apply a face serum

After cleansing, apply a serum suited to your skin concerns if you have one in your routine. For those incorporating retinal in their routine, Crystal Retinal is an ideal choice.

Step four:
Use a retinaldehyde eye cream

✓ Take a pea-sized amount and apply sparingly.

✓ Gently dab along the orbital bone (the bony area surrounding the eye socket), avoiding the eyelids, lash line, and inner corners.

✓ Use your ring finger to tap the product into the skin lightly — never rub or drag, as this can stretch delicate skin.

Step five:
Moisturise and hydrate

Lock in hydration with a nourishing eye cream or moisturiser to support the skin barrier and prevent dryness.

Step six:
Morning aftercare

The following morning, cleanse and follow with a hydrating serum and moisturiser. Skip the retinal eye cream in your AM routine, opting instead for a non-vitamin A eye cream such as Advanced Day Eye Protect or Eye Lift Peptides. Always finish with broad-spectrum SPF to protect the skin.

Expert tips for using a retinal eye cream

✓ Do a patch test
– Before full application, test on a small area to check for sensitivity.

✓ Start slow and monitor skin
– If new to retinal, use it every other night for the first 2 weeks before gradually increasing frequency.

✓ Less is more
– Use only a tiny amount and choose a lower strength before building up.

✓ Be patient and consistent
– Visible improvements take time, but regular use ensures the best results.

✓ Try layering products
– If concerned about sensitivity, apply moisturiser before your retinal eye cream to buffer absorption.

✓ Use supporting ingredients
– Pair with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin for a balanced routine.

✓ Avoid strong actives
– Avoid layering with AHAs, BHAs, or other potent exfoliants unless your skin is already well-adjusted to retinoids.

✓ Consult a professional
– If irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek advice from a dermatologist.

By following these steps and tips, you can integrate retinal eye cream into your routine safely and effectively, maximising its benefits for smoother, more youthful-looking eyes.

Common mistakes and misconceptions about using vitamin A around the eyes

1. Retinoids Thin the Skin Under the Eyes

Contrary to popular belief, retinoids do not thin the skin when used correctly. Instead, they stimulate collagen production, which helps to thicken and strengthen the delicate eye area over time.

2. Retinoids Cannot Be Used Under the Eyes

This misconception stems from the sensitivity of the eye area. While applying a face retinoid directly under the eyes can be too harsh, targeted retinal eye creams are specifically formulated for this delicate skin and can be safely used.

3. Retinoids Work Instantly

Results take time. While some benefits, such as improved hydration, may be seen quickly, noticeable changes in fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles typically take weeks to months of consistent use.

4. More Product Means Better Results

Applying too much retinoid or starting with a higher strength can lead to unnecessary irritation. A pea-sized amount is sufficient, and a gradual introduction is key to long-term success.

5. You Don’t Need to Follow Up with SPF if Using Retinoids at Night

Even though retinoids are applied at night, they increase skin sensitivity to UV rays. Daily SPF use is essential to protect the skin and maintain results.

6. Retinoids Around the Eyes Aren’t Suitable for All Skin Types

While some retinoids can be too harsh, retinaldehyde is a gentler alternative that offers faster results with minimal irritation. Lower concentrations or plant-based alternatives can also be considered for more sensitive skin.

7. You Cannot Use Other Eye Creams

Retinoid eye creams can be combined with hydrating products like ceramide or hyaluronic acid-based eye creams to support the skin barrier and minimise dryness.

8. Retinoids Cannot Address Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Retinoids won’t completely erase dark circles, especially if they are hereditary. However, they promote cell turnover, which can help even out skin tone. Other factors, such as blue light exposure, should also be managed to reduce dark circles.

9. Retinoids Worsen Under-Eye Puffiness

Retinoids do not cause puffiness, but irritation from improper application - such as applying too close to the lash line - can lead to temporary swelling. Pairing with soothing ingredients can help prevent irritation and maintain skin comfort.

By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you can incorporate retinal eye creams effectively into your skincare routine for optimal results.

Selecting the right retinal products for the eye area

Choosing the right eye care product is essential for targeting fine lines, dark circles, and overall skin rejuvenation without irritation. Medik8’s advanced retinaldehyde formulations are expertly designed for the delicate eye area, delivering powerful anti-ageing benefits with minimal sensitivity. Discover how our science-backed technology works to deliver visible results.

Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye

Retinaldehyde is a next-generation form of vitamin A that works faster than traditional retinol while remaining gentle on the skin. On the vitamin A pathway, retinaldehyde is just one conversion step away from retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A that the skin can use directly. In contrast, retinol requires two conversion steps, making retinaldehyde a more efficient option for achieving visible results sooner. This advanced form of vitamin A helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles while promoting a brighter, more youthful appearance.

Why Choose Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye?

Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye (CRCE) is specifically designed for the delicate eye area, combining expertly stabilised retinaldehyde at a clinical strength with ceramides and hyaluronic acid filling spheres to deliver nourishing care alongside age-defying results - optimised for the delicate eye area.

✓ Twin-encapsulated retinaldehyde
– A time-release delivery system ensures controlled absorption for effective yet gentle performance.

✓ Ceramides & hyaluronic acid
– Deeply hydrating and strengthening, these ingredients support the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

✓ Gradual release technology
– Helps reduce potential irritation while maintaining efficacy.

Available in three progressive strengths (0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.1% retinaldehyde), Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye allows users to start at a lower strength and gradually build tolerance, ensuring optimal results for all skin types - from beginners to experts.

Crystal Retinal vs Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye

While both Crystal Retinal and Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye harness the power of retinaldehyde, they are specifically formulated for different areas of the skin. Crystal Retinal is designed for the face and neck, delivering high-potency vitamin A benefits, while Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye is optimised for the delicate eye area with added barrier-supporting ingredients to minimise irritation.

Feature Crystal Retinal Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye
Retinal Strength 0.01%-0.24% retinaldehyde - High potency 0.03%-0.1% - Optimised for delicate skin
Texture Lightweight serum Creamy nourishing formula
Barrier Support Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin Hyaluronic acid and ceramides
Target Area Face and neck Eye contour


Designed specifically for the delicate eye area, CRCE starts at 0.03% retinaldehyde — higher than Crystal Retinal — since many users are already familiar with vitamin A. Its nourishing formula, infused with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, ensures deep hydration and barrier support, making nightly application both practical and comfortable.

The Crystal Retinal family: maximise results with the correct strength pairing

Maximise your nightly Vitamin A ritual by pairing your Crystal Retinal serum with Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye. This duo offers comprehensive rejuvenation for both face and eyes.

Since the eye area is especially delicate, using complementary strengths allows both formulas to work in harmony, supporting targeted youth-boosting results without overwhelming sensitive skin. This combination blends time-release retinaldehyde with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, delivering potent skin renewal with a soothing effect. When paired correctly, these formulas enhance each other’s efficacy, providing balanced, effective care for your skin. Check the guide below to find your perfect match and power up your results from face to eye.

Recommended Pairings:

Crystal Retinal 1–3 → Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3

Crystal Retinal 6 → Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 6

Crystal Retinal 10–24 → Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 10

How to Build Your Perfect Pairing

While we generally recommend pairing the strengths listed above, if you’re using Crystal Retinal 20 or 24, it’s still perfectly fine to use Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 6, especially if your skin is more prone to sensitivity. The eye area is delicate, so starting with a lower strength of CRCE can help minimise any potential irritation.

When to level up:

If your under-eyes are tolerating Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye well after consistent use (after finishing 1 tube), and you’re confident with your current CR level, you may consider progressing your eye strength in tandem — but there’s no pressure to do so. Many users continue with their CRCE strength even as they move up in facial retinal.

New to one or both?

If you're introducing both Crystal Retinal and Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye, start slowly. Use both products twice a week for the first two weeks, every other night for the next two weeks, and then every night. You should always use sunscreen in the morning while using vitamin A.

Upgrade your skincare with a retinal eye cream

Retinal eye creams offer a powerful yet gentle solution for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles, delivering clinically proven results with minimal irritation. As retinaldehyde continues to shape the future of advanced eye care, innovations in delivery systems and supporting ingredients are making this next-generation vitamin A more effective than ever.

Ready to upgrade your routine? Discover Medik8’s retinal range for a brighter, more youthful-looking eye area.

FAQ's

Is it OK to use retinal eye cream every day?

Yes, but it’s best to start slowly. If you're new to retinal, introduce it every other night and gradually increase to nightly use as your skin adjusts.

Is retinal eye cream safe?

When formulated specifically for the eye area, retinal eye creams are safe and effective. Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye is dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested, and clinically proven to deliver powerful yet gentle age-defying results.

How do you use retinal eye cream?

Apply a small amount around the orbital bone at night, using your ring finger to gently tap it in. Avoid the eyelids and lash line. Always follow with a moisturiser and use SPF in the morning.

How long does it take for retinal eye cream to work?

Visible improvements can be seen in as little as four weeks, with continued benefits over time. Thanks to retinal’s faster conversion to retinoic acid, results appear sooner than with traditional retinol.

What percentage of retinal is effective in an eye cream?

For the delicate eye area, retinal concentrations between 0.03% and 0.1% are both effective and well-tolerated. Medik8’s progressive strength system allows users to start low and build up for optimal results.

Radhika Sen

Radhika Sen

Radhika Sen is a skincare enthusiast and beauty writer. She's always on the lookout for a stellar serum and moisturiser combination, topped by a sunscreen that protects and primes. Her idea of self care is to pop on a face mask, light a scented candle and call it an early night.