Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream Review

Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream
7.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
8.1 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.8 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.6 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.

Key Benefits of Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream:
 

Rich Moisturizer Well-Suited for Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a high humectancy of 7.5 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Methylpropanediol (est. ≈4.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.0%), and a very high occlusivity of 8.1 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈9.0%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with dry skin who want intense hydration. It combines a significant concentration of humectants with a high level of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing specifically for dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.6 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
  • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream to your skincare routine:
 

Best for Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With high occlusivity, this product is optimal for dry skin but may be too thick for combination and especially oily skin. Even on normal skin, it can feel too rich depending on the quantity applied, the environment, and individual preferences.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It’s Better When Paired with Some Humectants

Based on our analysis, Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream contains a significant concentration of humectants, but people with dry skin would likely benefit from adding additional humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product provides.

If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Medik8 Night Ritual Vitamin A Age-Defying Retinol Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Rich moisturizer well-suited for dry skin: highly occlusive and humectant-packed
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy

Cons: 

  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
C12-16 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Distarch Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tricaprylin
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Phenylpropanol
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia Herb Oil
Function:
Origin:
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
16.2
9.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.5 10
7.5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 16.2 20
8.1
9.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.5 10
7.5
All humectants
7.5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 16.2 20
8.1
All occlusives
16.2
9.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
Total
2.6
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.8 3 No
All antioxidants
1.8
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
0.3
BHT
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Methylpropanediol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Polymethyl MethacrylateA powdered ingredient with an impressive sensory profile that gives off a creamy, sometimes velvety feeling on the skin. It is made up of tiny microspheres that roll smoothly across the skin and create slip and high spreadability.
Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

C12-16 Alcohols
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
C12-16 AlcoholsA naturally-derived or synthetic ingredient that provides body and cream-like texture to products. This is not a drying alcohol, in fact it can provide a softening effect to the skin.
Cetearyl Isononanoate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl IsononanoateA naturally-derived (coconut or palm oil based) oil with medium richness. It makes skin feel soft and smooth.
Distarch Phosphate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Distarch Phosphate

Description is coming soon

PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerA multi-functional ingredient that forms a polymeric network, thereby thickening the formula and preventing other ingredients from shifting around.
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitic AcidA saturated fatty acid used in skincare as a strongly occlusive moisturizer and barrier repairing, emollient ingredient. It is a waxy-looking, white solid. Palmitic acid can be commonly found in animal and vegetable fats, notably palm oil.
Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Olivate

A multifunctional ingredient derived from plants that primarily serves as an emulsifier. Supplied as a waxy ivory-colored flake, it can also be used as an emollient and slip modifier that gives a product an overall light, silky finish.

Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Tricaprylin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tricaprylin
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Sorbitan Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OlivateAn ester of sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol) and olive oil fatty acids. It is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil droplets in water (or vice versa).
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Hydroxyacetophenone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HydroxyacetophenoneAn antioxidant compound that can be found in many plants, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It can boost the preservative action of other conservants.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Arginine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Phenylpropanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenylpropanolPhenylpropanol is a naturally occurring component of many essential oils. It is a colourless, oily liquid with a sweet, floral, balsamic scent. It is used in skincare as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients and as a fragrance component.
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil

A fragrant essential neroli oil distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It has a rich, orange-floral scent with fresh and spicy notes.

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf OilAn essential oil distilled from the leaves of rosemary. It is used as a fragrance in skincare and has a spicy, earthy, camphoraceous scent. It also has antioxidant properties according to some research.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil

An essential oil derived from the peels of the sweet orange. It is commonly used as a fragrance because of its pleasant, citrusy scent. The main constituent of the essential oil is limonene (up to 96%).

Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract
Lavandula Angustifolia Herb Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia Herb Oil
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Anthemis Nobilis Flower OilDistilled from the flowers of Roman chamomile, this fragrant essential oil is mainly constituted of esters of angelic and tiglic acid, which give it a sweet, crisp, fruity, and herbaceous scent.
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.