If you’re on the beauty side of TikTok then you know that Skin cycling is all the rage right now. The hash tag has 141.8 million views and what makes it legit is it’s backed by skin experts and dermatologists on the app. In fact, the trend started thanks to Dr. Whitney Bowe, who shared the concept of skin cycling on her TikTok account.
What is Skin Cycling?
As explained by Dr. Bowe, skin cycling applies to the nighttime skincare routine and involves using active ingredients on certain days, and following them with rest days. The cycle is usually four days, with two days using active ingredients and two rest days, however, you can customize it to your liking. After the four days, you repeat the cycle.
The goal is to repair and protect the skin barrier, which protects your skin from external stressors and locks in moisture. When the skin barrier is damaged, irritants and allergens seep in and water evaporates, leaving your skin dull, dry and dehydrated. This can also increase your chance of acne.
Night One: Exfoliation
Night one is all about exfoliating the skin. Start by double cleansing and pat dry. Follow with an exfoliator, preferably a leave-on product like a chemical exfoliator containing ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. These are better for the skin barrier and more effective than physical scrubs, which might irritate the skin.
Night Two: Retinoid
On night two, apply a retinol product after double cleansing. Retinol increases skin cell production, helps unclog pores, exfoliates and increases collagen production. This can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. If you’ve never used retinol before, beware that the skin needs time to adjust to the product.
Using too much retinol can cause dryness and redness. To prevent this, apply a hydrating, scent-free moisturizer on the sensitive areas of your face before applying retinol. Apply moisturizer again after retinol. The ‘sandwich-method,’ as it’s called, helps protect the skin from irritation.
Nights Three and Four: Recovery
Nights three and four are your rest days. The goal for these two nights is to make sure your skin is hydrated. Dr. Bowe recommends cleansing, leaving the skin damp, and then applying a serum that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and/or niacinamide. Follow with a moisturizer. If the skin is still dry, you can apply a hydrating oil on top of your moisturizer.
My Skin Cycling Routine and My Results
I was so excited to start skin cycling when I saw it trending on TikTok. I’m not usually one to fall for trends, however, my skin has not been the greatest from going off birth control and traveling all summer.
I started skin cycling about a month ago and I’ve seen tremendous results. My skin is glowier, looks and feels hydrated and is noticeably less red. I’ve also noticed a few acne scars and dark spots have started to fade. The biggest difference, though, is how hydrated my skin is.
For years, I thought I had dry skin. My skin used to be flaky and my makeup would constantly stick to dry spots. After cleansing, it would feel tight if I didn’t immediately apply moisturizer. That’s all gone now. My skin feels soft constantly, even if I don’t immediately moisturize.
I’ve linked the products I use below, which I highly recommend, however, do your research to make sure they’re right for your skin type!
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
Skinfix Barrier+ Foaming Oil Hydrating Cleanser
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
Farmacy 1% Vitamin A Retinol Serum
Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Redness Relief Serum
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer
TULA Skincare Glow + Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye Balm
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