Retinyl Retinoate Products

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A gentle yet powerful form of vitamin A, retinyl retinoate is proven to be 8 times more effective than retinol*. Its exceptional stability in light makes it suitable for day use, alongside daily sunscreen for optimal protection. Discover our revolutionary r-Retinoate formulas for visibly smoother, brighter, and firmer skin, exclusively available at Medik8.

* H. Kim et al., Synthesis and in vitro biological activity of retinyl retinoate, a novel hybrid retinoid derivative, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 2008, 15;16(12), pp 6387-93
A sleek white pump bottle of r-Retinoate Day & Night stands upright, with a swirl of white cream next to it.
A woman's face is shown with a small amount of white cream on their cheek. Four bullet points with checkmarks list benefits: Visibly brightens, revitalises & smooths the skin; For results 8x more powerful than retinol* – both day & night; Improves uneven skin tone & texture; and a 3-in-1 serum for a simplified regime.
Morning
Evening
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
r-Retinoate® Day & Night Youth Activating Cream
Full Size (50ml) | £149
Medik8 r-Retinoate Intense Youth Activating Cream bottle displayed on a white background with a swatch of the peach-toned cream texture visible behind it.
A person with a streak of cream on their cheek holds a bottle of Medik8 r-Retinoate Intense. Claims include 8x more powerful and 11x faster than classic retinol, with dramatic wrinkle and dark spot reduction in 4 weeks.
Evening
Deep Set Lines & Wrinkles
r-Retinoate® Intense Intense Youth Activating Cream
Full Size (50ml) | £229
A white pump bottle of r-Retinoate Day & Night Eye Serum, with a droplet of product next to it.
A woman's face is shown with a small amount of eye serum applied under one eye. Three bullet points with checkmarks list the benefits: Dramatically fades visible wrinkles around the eyes, For results 8x more powerful than retinol*
Morning
Evening
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
r-Retinoate® Day & Night Eye Serum Youth Activating Eye Serum
Full Size (15ml) | £99

Frequently Asked Questions

What is retinyl retinoate?

Retinyl retinoate is a gentle yet highly effective form of vitamin A, clinically proven to be up to 8 times more powerful than retinol[¹]. It delivers impressive age-defying benefits, such as smoother texture and enhanced radiance, with significantly less irritation, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or new to vitamin A. Its photostable formula also means it can be used both morning and evening, offering flexibility and consistent results within your daily skincare routine.

[1] H. Kim et al., Synthesis and in vitro biological activity of retinyl retinoate, a novel hybrid retinoid derivative, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 2008, 15;16(12), pp 6387-93

Is retinyl retinoate better than retinol?

Retinyl retinoate is often seen as a next-generation alternative to retinol. Unlike traditional retinol, it doesn’t need to fully convert into retinoic acid in the skin, allowing it to deliver visible results faster, with significantly less irritation. It’s also far more stable, meaning it resists breakdown from light and air, and has been shown to be up to 8 times more effective at stimulating collagen. Despite its power, it remains remarkably gentle, making it ideal for sensitive skin or those who struggle with traditional retinol.

Medik8’s r-Retinoate Day & Night combines this advanced vitamin A with stabilised vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in one streamlined formula. The result is a complexion that looks noticeably smoother, brighter and more radiant, all with minimal irritation.

How do I use retinyl retinoate in my skincare routine?

Retinyl retinoate is a gentle yet powerful form of vitamin A that can be used both morning and evening. Apply after cleansing, followed by your moisturiser. If your formula is lightweight, you can layer a hydrating serum underneath for added comfort. Start by using it a few times a week and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Always wear SPF the next morning, as vitamin A can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

Medik8’s r-Retinoate Intense combines retinyl retinoate with four other age-defying technologies in one luxurious night cream, for visibly smoother, firmer and more radiant skin.

How long does retinyl retinoate take to work?

With regular use, you may start to notice smoother, brighter skin in around 4–6 weeks. For more visible improvements in fine lines, pigmentation and overall texture, it can take up to 12 weeks. The key is consistency and daily sun protection.

Is retinyl retinoate suitable for blemish-prone skin?

Yes, retinyl retinoate is a great option for those with blemish and acne-prone skin. It helps to regulate skin cell turnover, which can prevent clogged pores and reduce breakouts. Plus, it’s less irritating than traditional retinol, making it suitable for those with blemish-prone or sensitive skin.

Shop by Retinyl-Retinoate

Breakthrough vitamin A technology

At the heart of this collection is a pioneering, patented molecule exclusive to Medik8: retinyl retinoate. Designed to go beyond traditional vitamin A, it delivers visible results while maintaining exceptional stability and skin comfort, redefining what’s possible from topical retinoids.

A new generation of vitamin A

By combining the benefits of retinol with retinoic acid, retinyl retinoate supports smoother, firmer-looking skin without the typical compromise of irritation. Its photostability means it can be used both day and night, helping to support collagen while also assisting in shielding skin against UVA-induced damage.

Designed for high performance routines

From multi-tasking formulas to intensive overnight treatments, the r-Retinoate range adapts to your routine. r-Retinoate Day & Night uniquely combines vitamin A with stabilised vitamin C, bringing together the ‘C’ and ‘A’ steps of Medik8’s CSA Philosophy in one streamlined formula.

For advanced results, r-Retinoate Intense delivers a 5-in-1 approach; combining retinyl retinoate, retinal, peptides, ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a single formula. Acting as both serum and moisturiser, it simplifies your evening routine while supporting faster, more comprehensive age-defying results.