A TikTok Skincare Trend That's Legit

Skin Cycling! In 2021 New York City-based board-certified Dermatologist Whitney Bowe introduced the world to skin cycling. This method has actually been around for a long time, so why is it just gaining popularity now? TikTok! Although TikTok is overwhelmingly loaded with useless misinformation (in my opinion) this technique is legit, and this platform has allowed Dr Bowe and other Derms to spread the message widely. 

It is just as it sounds, a skincare regimen that cycles active and restorative products. This method allows you to reap the benefits of active ingredients such as retinol and exfoliants with less irritation.  

The classic approach is a 4-night cycle as follows: 

Night 1, exfoliation night. I lean toward chemical exfoliants such as AHA, BHA, or both. My skin just tolerates these better than a harsh physical exfoliant that has a lot of grit.

Night 2, retinoid night. This is an important player in healthy skin. However, it can be difficult for some to tolerate. Cycling it or building up your tolerance slowly can help minimize irritation. 

Nights 3 & 4, are recovery nights. On these nights steer clear of retinoids and other active ingredients and focus on skin reparing ingredients. These include rich moisturizers and sleep masks that often contain barrier repair ingredients like ceramide and niacinamide. 

Repeat

Just like the rest of our body, the skin needs rest and recovery too! Evidence shows that a compromised skin barrier plays a role in symptoms such as acne, eczema, and inflammation.

Emily Weibel, APRN