So, if you’ve scrolled through Instagram or TikTok recently, you’ve probably come across a new trend called skin cycling. With hashtags like #SkinCycling is already racking up 122.3 million views on TikTok, it’s hard to miss.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Another TikTok trend? Who's writing these articles, a TikTok-addicted Gen-Z?” First off, yes, I am. Secondly, just trust me, this trend is worth sticking around for!
What Is Skin Cycling?
Despite its sporty name, skin cycling isn’t cardio for your face. Developed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, it’s a skincare routine that alternates between “active” and “rest” days. Think of it as a workout schedule for your skin, designed to strategically apply products, prevent irritation, and promote recovery. So rather than applying the same products daily, skin cycling incorporates rest days to help repair the skin barrier.
Why Is Skin Cycling So Popular?
The popularity of this skincare trend is due to its contrary nature to another skincare trend that was popular before, which is the 10-step skincare routine. This trend single handedly taught many of us to overload our skincare routines with 10 steps, often causing irritation and ultimately overwhelmed our skin.
There comes skin cycling: a simpler approach that does more with less. It negates the whole idea behind the 10-step routine, and it’s also more wallet-friendly. By layering products in a structured way, skin cycling enhances benefits without overburdening your skin.
How Does Skin Cycling Work?
Skin cycling is a four-night routine that balances active treatments with recovery days:
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Night 1: Exfoliation
Cleanse your face, pat dry, and apply a chemical exfoliant (like glycolic or salicylic acid) to remove dead skin cells and improve product absorption. Follow up with a moisturiser.
Pro Tip: Skip physical scrubs—chemical exfoliants are gentler and more predictable.
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Night 2: Retinoids
Apply a retinoid (like retinol or retinaldehyde) after cleansing to target fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. If your skin is sensitive, buffer with moisturiser before and after application.
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Nights 3 & 4: Recovery
This is where you give your skin a break. This recovery time is where you focus on hydration and barrier repair. Use a rich moisturiser or a hydrating serum, avoiding exfoliants and retinoids entirely.
Repeat this cycle and enjoy the benefits of active ingredients, without the hassle of facing its purge phase.
Benefits of Skin Cycling
As mentioned before, skin cycling is more than just a trendy thing to try out—it actually delivers some serious benefits!
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Protect Your Skin Barrier
Overusing potent products can damage your skin barrier, leading to irritation and sensitivity. By incorporating recovery nights, you’re allowing your skin to repair itself and replenish, keeping that barrier intact and strong.
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Reduce Side Effects
If you’ve ever experienced redness, dryness, or peeling from using actives too often, skin cycling can help. By using products less frequently, you minimize those side effects and keep your skin looking smooth and healthy.
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Seasonal Benefits
Skin cycling is especially great during the colder months when dry skin is more common. It helps keep your skin balanced, hydrated, and protected from the harsh weather, ensuring you stay glowing all season long.
Is Skin Cycling for Everyone?
Now, let’s address the golden question: is this trendy routine right for you? While skin cycling sounds harmless and effective, there are a few things to consider before diving in:
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Best for: Skin cycling is great for beginners, those with sensitive skin, or anyone prone to irritation. If you’re looking to incorporate active ingredients like retinoids or acids but want to avoid overdoing it, skin cycling is a gentler, more balanced approach.
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Use caution if: If you have conditions like acne or rosacea, or if you’re using prescription treatments (like topical antibiotics or strong acne medications), it’s best to consult a dermatologist first. They can guide you on how to adapt the routine for your specific needs to avoid aggravating your skin.
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Skip it if: If your skin is already accustomed to daily use of retinoids or exfoliants without irritation, you might not need to follow a cycling routine. Your skin can probably handle these products regularly, so skin cycling might not offer additional benefits for you.
Tips for Skin Cycling Success
Now that you’re on board with skin cycling, let’s make sure you get the most out of it! Here are some essential tips to ensure you’re fully reaping the benefits of this routine:
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Stick to Nighttime: The key to successful skin cycling lies in timing. Skin cycling products, like retinoids and exfoliants, are most effective when your skin is in its natural repair mode, which happens overnight. During this time, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients, so make sure to apply them in the evening to allow for maximum absorption and benefits.
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Always Wear SPF: This tip is non-negotiable! Retinoids and exfoliating acids can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s crucial to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily—ideally SPF 50 or higher. Even on cloudy days, UVA rays can penetrate the skin and cause damage, so applying sunscreen protects your skin from burns, premature aging, and further irritation.
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Start Slowly: If you're new to using active ingredients like retinoids or acids, it’s important to ease into the routine. Starting with fewer nights per week and gradually increasing the frequency will give your skin time to adjust, minimizing the risk of irritation, redness, or dryness. Your skin will thank you as it gets accustomed to the new routine!
How Long Should You Try Skin Cycling?
Since no skincare product is a "one-use miracle," it’s best to give skin cycling at least six weeks. This allows your skin time to adjust and fully reap the benefits. After that, you can assess your skin’s tolerance and decide if you want to switch to a more intensive routine.
Ready to put cardio in your skincare routine?
Skin cycling is a simple, balanced approach to achieving optimal skin health—without overworking your skin. We get it, TikTok trends can sometimes be a bit... questionable, but rest assured, this one is rooted in real dermatological knowledge, not just the latest skinfluencer experiment. So, are you ready to start skin cycling? You’ve got the facts now, it’s time to put them into action!
