Is Skin Cycling the Key to a Glowing Complexion?
Skin Cycling is a trend that went viral on TikTok in the Summer of 2022. Unlike many TikTok trends, Skin Cycling is supported by dermatological expertise and training. Skin Cycling was created by Dr. Whitney Bowe, a board certified Dermatologist who has been in practice for over a decade.
What Is Skin Cycling?
Skin Cycling is designed to be a simple yet effective skincare routine that minimizes skincare products while having a significant impact on skin health. Skincare has become a major moneymaker in the beauty industry, with many people spending hundreds and even thousands of dollars in an effort to obtain smooth and glowing skin.
As a result of the myriad of skincare products and routines being sold to folks, one of the most important tenets of skincare is often ignored: it’s vital that your skin barrier has time to recover between the use of active-ingredient products (Bowe, 2022). Skin Cycling strategically uses four products to optimize your skin health over a four-day cycle.
Key Skincare Products for Skin Cycling:
Gentle cleanser
Moisturizer
Chemical exfoliant
Retinoids
How Does Skin Cycling Work?
Skin Cycling follows a simple four-day routine to balance active ingredients and recovery time. Here's a breakdown of the cycle:
Night One: Exfoliation Night
On exfoliation night, you should wash your face with your chosen gentle cleanser. Once your face is dry, apply a chemical exfoliant of your choosing.
Once the exfoliant is done (I typically wait about twenty minutes), apply your moisturizer.
Night Two: Retinoid Night
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (n.d.), retinoids help to increase collagen production, reduce fine lines, and even out skin tone. Dr. Bowe suggests that retinoids can be drying or irritating to sensitive skin, and designed skin cycling to avoid excessive irritation.
On Retinoid night, apply a retinoid of your choosing after washing and drying your face. Again, I wait about twenty minutes before applying moisturizer.
Night Three & Night Four: Recovery Nights
Recovery nights prioritize the health and repairing of the skin barrier. According to Dr. Bowe (2022), recovery nights should be focused on restoring moisture and hydration.
After washing and drying your face, apply a medium to heavy weight moisturizer and allow it to absorb into your skin before laying down for bed. Do not use any other serums or exfoliants on recovery nights.
Continue following the Skin Cycle to optimize and maintain your results.
Why Is Skin Cycling Effective?
Skin Cycling is a dermatologically supported method that helps prevent over-exfoliation and irritation while promoting long-term skin health. Its simplicity makes it accessible to skincare beginners, while the strategic use of active ingredients ensures visible results.
Benefits of Skin Cycling:
Reduces irritation caused by active ingredients.
Strengthens the skin barrier.
Improves skin texture and tone.
Encourages a consistent and manageable skincare routine.
Is Skin Cycling Right for You?
While Skin Cycling works for most skin types, it's essential to customize the routine to fit your unique skin needs. If you’re prone to dryness or have sensitive skin, start slow and consult with a dermatologist before introducing active ingredients like retinoids or chemical exfoliants.
An Important Note
Everyone’s skin is different. Some people are more prone to be dry, others oily. And we all have varying sensitivity levels when it comes to our skin. If you’re new to using active skincare ingredients like retinoids or you have very sensitive skin, consult with a dermatologist before giving Skin Cycling a try.
Reference
Bowe, W. (2022, August 11). Classic skin cycling: Why it’s gone viral and how to do it. Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty. https://drwhitneybowebeauty.com/blogs/derm-scribbles/skin-cycling-dr-bowes-viral-beauty-editor-approved-skincare-method?_pos=4&_sid=fe064ddf0&_ss=r
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