If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably heard a lot about the latest beauty trend to take over TikTok: skin cycling. But what exactly is skin cycling? This Skin Cycling 101 guide will break it down and provide a sample schedule, then head over to my morning skin care routine post and my current favorite products!
Essentially, skin cycling is a nighttime skincare routine that spaces out the usage of active ingredients. The most popular cycle is a four-day routine that typically involves two days of active ingredients followed by two days of rest, and then repeating the cycle. However, as your skin grows more tolerant to the active ingredients, you can add extra retinol nights to pump up your results.
Dr. Whitney Bowe, a New York-based dermatologist, is the brains behind the skin cycling routine. She recommends the following routine for optimal results.
Night One: Exfoliation
The first step in skin cycling is exfoliation. Using an exfoliating product helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to clearer, brighter, and smoother skin. Dr. Bowe recommends using a leave-on product that contains chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs instead of physical scrubs because they’re better for the skin barrier and more effective. Physical scrubs have a tendency to be too harsh and cause micro-tears in the skin. Additionally, using an exfoliating product only once or twice a week helps to prevent over-exfoliation and keeps the skin barrier intact.
Skin Cycling 101 Action Item: After cleansing your skin, pat it dry and apply the exfoliating product. Once dry, apply a light moisturizer.
Night Two: Retinoid
On day two of skin cycling, applying a retinoid helps to promote cell turnover and collagen production, resulting in smoother and firmer skin. Retinoids also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. However, retinoids can be harsh, especially on sensitive skin, and may cause skin purging**. By using a retinoid every couple nights, you give your skin time to adjust and prevent any irritation or dryness. Starting with a hydrating cream on sensitive areas can also act as a buffer and make the retinoid application more tolerable–this technique is known as “sandwiching” your retinoid.
Skin cycling 101 Action Item: After cleansing your skin, pat it dry and apply your buffer moisturizer. Then, apply your retinoid (about 2 peas worth) to your entire face, neck, and across the décolletage (I also rub the leftover on the back of my hands). Once dry, apply a light moisturizer. Note: you can drop the buffer moisturizer once your skin is more tolerant to the retinoid.
**Skin Purging:
Skin purging is a temporary reaction that occurs when you start using a new skincare product, especially ones that contain active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs/BHAs. When these ingredients increase the rate of skin cell turnover, they can bring clogged pores and impurities to the surface of the skin. This is what we want. However, it leads to breakouts and blemishes. This is a normal process and usually lasts for a short period of time, typically 2-4 weeks. After this adjustment period, the skin should clear up and become healthier and smoother. It is important to note that skin purging is different from an allergic reaction or irritation caused by a product.
Night Three and Four: Repair and Recovery
On the third and fourth nights of your cycle, it’s time to focus on repairing and recovering your skin. Dr. Bowe recommends cleansing your skin and leaving it damp before applying a serum that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and/or niacinamide. Follow up with a moisturizer that’s nourishing and will support the skin barrier. If your skin is particularly dry, apply rosehip or squalane oil to your cheeks for extra hydration.
Skin Cycling 101 Action Item: After cleansing your skin, while it is still damp apply soothing serums. Follow with a skin oil (optional) and nourishing moisturizer.
What about the Morning?
When it comes to taking care of your skin, it’s important to have both a morning and nighttime routine. In addition to the skin cycling routine we discussed earlier, there are a few additional steps you can take in the morning to help keep your skin healthy and radiant throughout the day. Read our post on the best morning skin routine!
Skin Cycling 101 Schedule
ADHD Ashwaganda Beginner Bread Breakfast Carrot Ceramide cocktail Desserts & Sweet Treats drink Education Equipment Focaccia Focus Food Gluten Free Health honey Hormone Balance Hyaluronic Acid lemon Lifestyle Meal Prep mint mocktail Muffins Omega 3 Productivity Professional Recipes Retinoid Retinol Sides skin care Snacks & Appetizers SPF summer Supplements Vegetables Vitamin C Vitamin D Vitamins Wellness Work
