Skin cycling is a term used to describe the technique of letting your skin rest between product use. Dermatologist Debra Wattenberg, MD, explains: “Rather than applying the same products every day, when skin cycling, products are applied with ‘rest’ days”.
Why is Skin Cycling necessary?
Using potent products strategically allows your skin to heal and as a result, reduces the chances of irritation and inflammation.
How long does Skin Cycling take to work?
Skin Cycling may allow you to see results in as little as 8 days. The more you continue with the routine, the more radiant and dewier your skin will become.
Which products should I use for Skin Cycling?
- Day 1: An exfoliating product (for example, glycolic acid or salicylic acid)
- Day 2: A retinoid such as retinol or retinaldehyde
- Day 3 and 4: A good-quality moisturizer with no skin-irritating ingredients
My product recommendations:
Medik8 Sleep Glycolic
On the first night, I cleanse my skin, then apply the Medik8 Sleep Glycolic as an exfoliant. This removes dead skin cells and therefore, will allow other products to work more effectively.
Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair and Buffer Cream
On night 2, I apply my retinoid treatment. Retinol is a very potent Vitamin A derivative that improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Being a powerful active means that it may cause irritation if used incorrectly. This is why I love the Dermalogica Retinol Repair Kit. It comes with a buffer cream that allows you to mix with the retinol serum so you can introduce it gradually. As a result, lessens the chance of causing irritation or inflammation.
Thalgo Revitalizing Night Cream
Finally, on night 3 and 4, I apply the Thalgo Revitalizing Night cream. This allows my skin to recover and also helps to nourish my skins microbiome and repairs your skin barrier. I always make sure I cleanse first and pat my skin dry.
Tip:
You can always personalize the routine to suit your skin type. For instance, if you’re new to retinol or have sensitive skin, you might need to increase the number of rest days.
Mel
Mel is a former Hair Stylist with over a decade of industry experience.
She enjoys writing about all aspects of the hair & beauty world including, trends, new products & best-sellers.