If you are regular on social media, especially on TikTok, you most probably have already heard about the trending skin cycling routine. In case you are wondering what exactly this is, well… for me this is something that has been a game changer in my skincare journey.
Are you curious about how to achieve glowing, healthy skin without using tons of products or overwhelming your bathroom cabinet? If so, Then maybe this comprehensive guide on skin cycling routine is for you.
What is a skin cycling routine?
Skin cycling is a nighttime skincare approach and this trendy term was coined by a dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe. Unlike the traditional practice of layering multiple products daily, in a skin cycling routine, different skincare products are used on different days. This method is based on the principle that you should give your skin time to recover from using powerful active ingredients so that it can adapt to each product slowly. Eventually, it will cause less irritation with a better efficacy.
Products you need to start a skin cycling routine
For skin cycling, you need three products.
- A chemical exfoliant such as AHA (Alpha Hydroxy acid) or BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)
- Retinoid: A retinol or prescription retinoid to use on designated nights.
- A hydrating and nourishing moisturizer.
How to create a skin cycling routine?
In this routine, the skin undergoes a four-night cycle. Night one is exfoliation night, night two is retinoid night and nights three and four are for moisturization and recovery where you are not using any actives on your skin. After you’ve completed those four subsequent nights, you start with your exfoliation step and then repeat the cycle, repeat and repeat.
Night 1: Exfoliation
The first night is exfoliation night. Start your routine by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser and then use a chemical exfoliant. Exfoliation will help to remove dead skin cells, improve your skin texture and prepare your skin better to absorb other skin care products effectively.
Follow with a hydrating serum or moisturizer to lock in moisture.
Night 2: Retinoid treatment
Time to introduce active ingredients in your skincare routine. Since you exfoliated your skin on the previous day, now your skin is ready to absorb the active ingredients effectively.
First, clean your face with a gentle cleanser. And then apply a retinoid product. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A, renowned for their anti-ageing and acne-fighting properties. you can use retinol or prescribed tretinoin for a higher concentration. But If you are new to retinoids, begin with a lower concentration to build tolerance. Use a moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation.
Related Article: Everything you should know about retinol
Nights 3 and 4: Recovery and hydration
After two nights of active treatments, now your skin needs time to recover and rebuild its barrier. So nights three and four are only for hydration and nourishment, no actives.
Cleanse your face with a mild, gentle cleanser. Apply a hydrating or smoothing serum such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides and finish with a moisturizer. For better moisturization, you can also use a hydrating face mask.
Congratulations! If you have followed this four-night cycle, you have just completed your first skin cycle routine. Your skin is now probably fully recuperated, and you can start the cycle again from the exfoliation step.
Benefits of skin cycling routine
Most of us have a tendency to use multiple products in a single day without realizing that the skin isn’t really able to handle that very well. The main benefit of a skin cycling routine is it can help people avoid over-irritating their skin. By alternating between exfoliation, retinoids and recovery, you give your skin the tools it needs to renew and rejuvenate without overwhelming it.
Mistakes to avoid
Skipping moisturizer: Exfoliation and retinol tend to make the skin dry. Dry and dehydrated skin can lead to a compromised skin barrier and increased sensitivity. So after exfoliation and using retinol, moisturization is a must, even if you have oily skin.
Ignoring sunscreen: Active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs and retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to the sun. So always apply a broad spectrum, SPF30+ sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.
Related Article: Everything you need to know about sunscreen
Starting with higher-concentration retinoids: Starting your routine with a higher-concentration retinoid product can irritate your skin. Start with the lower concentration and gradually increase once your skin adapts to it.
Does everyone need to follow a skin cycling routine?
Is the skin cycling routine for everyone? The answer is, no! Skin cycling is helpful for people who are new to actives or facing sensitivity from using too many products. It will help them to grow adaptability to active ingredients. But if you are someone whose skin is already well tolerated to higher concentration active ingredients or your own skincare routine, then maybe you don’t need this. Most probably, you won’t get that many benefits from a skin cycling routine.
Related Article: Morning skincare routine for glowing and healthy skin
Wrapping up
Though the skin cycling cycle may vary from person to person, I suggest proceeding with the basics first. It can happen that after a few weeks of treatment you may find a 5-night cycle is more appropriate than a 4-night cycle. Or you may find a 3-night cycle is more useful for you. So it is also good to continue to find your own skin cycling routine.
If you are a beginner or have sensitive skin, try this routine. I cautiously believe that you will be able to find quite an amazing change in your skin.
