@SheilaFentiman That's the process I was following, until AI threw me off. I think it’s done it as most vit c serums are thin/watery rather than creamy.
I will revert back to the way I was doing it then, while I get through my never ending stash of medik8 c-tetra (thanks Fairy) 😁
@Cyclingmummy1 Oh, I’ve not been to the Company Shop for years, I always forget about it. I need to renew my membership and start checking in from time to time. (Although I wouldn’t get the turmeric oil, I hated the smell of that when I got it in Aldi)
@Hicupping When I ran my products through AI it said to use Murad last from my stash due to its strength (I had also been using Murad on and off and didn’t realise it was so strong) - see below
1. Gentler than Crystal Retinal 6
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
This contains 0.06% pure retinol. Because it is retinol (requiring two conversion steps) combined with their soothing TFC8 cellular complex, it is incredibly gentle and focuses heavily on hydration.
- When to use: You could actually use this instead of your Crystal Retinal 3 right now if you wanted a break from retinal, or save it for times when your skin feels exceptionally dry but you still want anti-ageing protection.
2. The Direct Peer (Equivalent Strength)
Crystal Retinal 6
Decree Treat Tincture: This features a 1% advanced granactive retinoid complex. Granactive retinoids do not require the same harsh conversion steps as traditional retinol, meaning it gives a similar level of cell-turnover performance as Crystal Retinal 6 but with a massive focus on moisture (via squalane and hyaluronic acid).
- When to use: This is your perfect alternative to Crystal Retinal 6. Once your tube of Crystal Retinal 3 is empty, you can seamlessly jump to the Decree serum instead of buying Medik8 strength 6.
3. The Strongest (Most Intensive)
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal
This uses a fast-acting "Tri-Active" technology that delivers an immediate hit of retinoid alongside a time-released retinol. Because it kicks off cellular turnover very rapidly, it behaves as the most intense formula in your collection.
- When to use: Save this for much later, after you have fully conquered Crystal Retinal 6 or finished the Decree serum. Because your skin is prone to breakouts and dryness, introducing this fast-acting formula too early could trigger a purging reaction.