Skin cycling – a new approach to skincare
What is skin cycling? It is a four-night skincare method based on rotating active ingredients to give the skin enough time to regenerate and reduce irritation.
Skin cycling has become one of the most popular trends in skincare, and dermatologists recommend it as an effective way to achieve healthy and glowing skin. This method is based on the cyclical use of active ingredients over several days, allowing the skin time to regenerate and reducing irritation.
Unlike standard routines that often include the daily use of strong active ingredients, skin cycling focuses on properly distributing products to achieve maximum results without compromising the skin barrier.
If you struggle with sensitivity, acne, or hyperpigmentation, or simply want to optimize your skincare routine, skin cycling might be the right solution.
How does skin cycling work?
Skin cycling is a four-night skincare method that involves rotating active ingredients to allow the skin sufficient time for regeneration and reduced irritation. This technique ensures maximum results with minimal damage to the protective skin barrier, making it especially beneficial for people with sensitive or reactive skin.
The goal of skin cycling is to optimize the use of powerful ingredients such as exfoliants and retinoids while ensuring adequate hydration and skin recovery. This approach prevents excessive irritation and enhances product effectiveness, resulting in healthy, even, and radiant skin.
Night 1: Exfoliation – renewing the skin’s surface layer
Exfoliation is the first step of skin cycling and serves to remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and enhance the penetration of active ingredients in the following phases of the routine. Regular exfoliation reduces clogged pores, uneven skin tone, and fine lines while improving the absorption of hydrating ingredients.
How to choose the right exfoliant?
There are several types of exfoliants, and choosing the right one depends on your skin type and individual needs:
- Chemical peels (AHA, BHA, PHA acids) – The most popular form of exfoliation as they do not require mechanical scrubbing and work deeper in the pores.
- Salicylic acid (BHA) – Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin as it penetrates deep into the pores and reduces sebum production.
- Glycolic and lactic acid (AHA) – Work on the surface, improving skin glow and texture. Glycolic acid is stronger, while lactic acid is gentler and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Enzyme peels – A gentle option for people with extremely sensitive or dry skin, using fruit enzymes to dissolve dead cells without aggressive action.
How to apply exfoliation correctly?
- Apply the exfoliant to dry, clean skin, as moisture can intensify the effect of acids and cause irritation.
- If using liquid or gel exfoliants, apply them with a cotton pad or fingertips in a thin layer.
- Do not rinse the exfoliant unless otherwise instructed.
- After exfoliation, there is no need for additional active ingredients – use only a moisturizer to protect the skin.
Note: If you experience excessive burning or irritation, reduce the frequency of exfoliation or choose a gentler exfoliant.
Night 2: Retinoids – stimulating skin cell renewal
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that promote collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and lighten hyperpigmentation. They accelerate cell renewal, helping combat early signs of ageing, acne, and uneven skin tone.
How to use retinoids correctly?
Retinoids are powerful ingredients that can cause temporary dryness, peeling, or redness, so it is important to dose them correctly and gradually introduce them into your routine.
- Beginners – Start with a low concentration of retinol (0.2% – 0.5%) and use it only once or twice a week until your skin adapts.
- Advanced users – If your skin tolerates retinol well, you can switch to retinal or even tretinoin, which are stronger forms of retinoids.
- Sensitive skin – Can use bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol that does not irritate but offers similar benefits.
Correct application of retinoids:
- Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin, avoiding sensitive areas such as around the eyes and lips.
- The sandwich method – If you have sensitive skin, apply a moisturizer before and after retinoids to minimize irritation.
- Use retinoids only at night, as they can increase skin sensitivity to the sun.
Tip: Retinoids can cause “retinization” – an adaptation phase where the skin may become red and flaky. This process lasts 2-6 weeks, so be patient!
Nights 3 and 4: Recovery and hydration – regenerating the skin barrier
After two days of using active ingredients, the skin needs time to recover and strengthen its protective barrier. These nights are dedicated to intense hydration and skin soothing.
Which ingredients should you use?
- Hyaluronic acid – Hydrates the skin and improves elasticity.
- Ceramides and peptides – Help strengthen the skin barrier and protect against external aggressors.
- Niacinamide – Reduces redness, regulates sebum production, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Centella asiatica and allantoin – Soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
How to care for your skin during the recovery phase?
- Apply hydrating serums and creams rich in nourishing ingredients that promote cell renewal and retain moisture in the skin.
- Avoid active ingredients like acids and retinoids to allow the skin time to regenerate.
- Use richer creams if you feel tightness or dryness.
Tip: If your skin continues to show signs of irritation, extend the recovery phase by another night before resuming exfoliation.
Why is skin cycling effective?
- Prevents excessive skin irritation – Balances the use of strong active ingredients.
- Improves skin texture and glow – Regular exfoliation and retinoids create an even complexion.
- Simple and sustainable skincare routine – Ideal for beginners who want an efficient routine.
- Supports a healthy skin barrier – Ensures sufficient hydration and protection.
Is skin cycling suitable for all skin types?
One of the best features of skin cycling is its adaptability. This method can be used on different skin types with specific adjustments.
Oily and acne-prone skin
- Helps regulate sebum and reduce clogged pores.
- Exfoliation with salicylic acid (BHA) removes excess sebum and dead cells that can cause acne.
- Retinoids accelerate cell renewal, reducing pimples and blackheads.
- Recommendation: Use lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers to avoid further burdening the skin.
Dry and sensitive skin
- More prone to redness, irritation, and flaking, so gentler exfoliants are necessary.
- PHA acids are a great choice as they provide exfoliation while hydrating.
- Retinoids can cause dryness, so milder versions like retinal or bakuchiol are better options.
- Recommendation: Use ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid in the recovery phase to strengthen the skin barrier.
Combination skin
- Requires a balanced approach due to both oily and dry areas.
- BHA acids can be used on oily areas, while AHA or PHA acids work for dry zones.
- Retinoids should be applied only where needed (e.g., forehead and chin where pores are more visible).
- Recommendation: Monitor your skin’s reactions and add an extra night of hydration if needed.
How to customize skin cycling to your needs?
Extending the hydration phase
- If you experience excessive dryness or irritation, add another night of hydration before restarting the cycle.
Morning and evening skin cycling
- Morning: Use vitamin C or niacinamide for additional protection against free radicals.
- Evening: Follow the standard cycle with retinoids and exfoliants.
- Tip: Never use exfoliants and retinoids at the same time.
Seasonal adjustments
- Winter: The skin is more sensitive and prone to dehydration, so use gentler exfoliation and more hydration.
- Summer: The skin is more resilient, but excessive use of acids should be avoided to prevent sun sensitivity.
Esthea Polyclinic – your expert for healthy and radiant skin
If you want the best results in skincare, Esthea Polyclinic offers personalized treatments and expert advice to make your skincare routine as effective as possible.
- Professional skin analysis
- Dermatological treatments such as chemical peels, mesotherapy, and hydration treatments
- High-quality dermatological products
- Expert guidance for an optimal skin cycling routine
Book your consultation at Esthea Polyclinic and discover how skin cycling can transform your skincare routine!