If you haven’t heard, “skin cycling” is trending. No, this viral concept is not a workout, but a simple regime that touts minimal skincare products on an alternating schedule. On night one, cyclers apply a chemical exfoliant. On night two, a retinoid. And on nights three and four, you let your skin recover. Learn more about each step and the right products below.
Dasha Burobina
Step 1: Exfoliation Night
Reap the benefits of chemical exfoliants
What Is the Best Chemical Exfoliant for Me?
The words “chemical exfoliant” don’t sound particularly skin-friendly, but the right kind can really give your routine a boost.
How to Exfoliate Your Face Safely, According to a Dermatologist
We enlisted the help of a board-certified dermatologist to walk us through the ins and outs.
What Is Glycolic Acid? Everything You Need to Know About the Popular Exfoliator
Glycolic acid is right up there with the big boys as an essential for soft, glowing skin.
Step 2: Retinoid Night
Everything you need to know about this active ingredient
Help! What’s the Difference Between Retinol and Retinoids?
There are two ingredients that combat anti-aging in one fell swoop. We give you retinol and retinoids.
We Ask a Derm: What’s the Difference Between Tretinoin vs. Retinol?
While they’re both in the retinoid family, there are three major differences that set them apart.
We Ask a Derm: What is a Tretinoin Purge (And How Do We Get Through One)?
Good news is that it’s usually temporary and there are a few simple tricks to make the experience less unpleasant.
Step 3-4: Recovery Night
Repair that skin barrier, baby
What Is the Skin Barrier…and Is Mine Damaged?
Who knew that the products we use to keep our complexion in tip-top shape could actually be wreaking havoc on our skin?
The Unsung Hero of Your Skin Cycling Routine? A Good Moisturize
Although the treatments and order of product application shift each day, there’s one aspect that remains the same: a moisturizer and Clinique Moisture Surge™ 100H is our product of choice.
We Ask a Derm: What Is Slugging? And Does This TikTok Trend Actually Work?
Fortunately, this has nothing to do with the slippery creatures in your backyard—here’s what you need to know.
Product Picks
