Skincare is essential for healthy, glowing skin. But as we age, our skin needs change, and it can be challenging to keep up with the latest trends in beauty care. Enter “skin cycling”—a term that describes changing your skincare routine over time.

Skin cycling has taken over the internet lately to keep your skin looking its best. It centers around changing your products and routines every few days to give your skin the nourishment and stimulation it needs to look its best. The #skincycling hashtag on TikTok alone has over 100 million views, with users sharing their journeys and before-and-after photos of acne scars.

What is skin cycling?

Skin cycling is a skincare form that involves changing your routine every few days. This allows each product to work at its best and prevents overuse or underuse, which can cause irritation and inflammation.

Instead of using the same products every day, you’ll rotate products to give your skin a break in between. For example, you might use an exfoliating product one day and a hydrating moisturizer the next. Or you could alternate between a serum and an anti-aging cream.

The idea is to allow your skin to repair itself while still nourishing it with different products. This can help prevent irritation and inflammation, says Dr. Marcy Wattenberg, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

To get started with skin cycling, you’ll need the following:

• An exfoliator (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid)

• A retinoid (think retinol or retinaldehyde)

• A moisturizer (opt for a fragrance-free ointment or cream, suggests the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD)

Should you try skin cycling?

Skin cycling may be an effective way to keep your skin looking its best, but it is important to consult a dermatologist first to ensure you are using the right products for your skin type and condition.

While some people have great results with skin cycling, it is important to remember that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Here are a few benefits of skin cycling:

Repairs your skin barriers

Skin cycling encourages your skin to repair itself and strengthens your skin barrier. This helps protect you from bacteria, allergens, and other environmental factors that can damage your skin.

Reduces negative product side effects

By cycling through different products, you reduce the chance of negative side effects like irritation and inflammation. According to Dr. Wattenberg, the less often you use a product, the less chance of a side effect.

Protects skin against seasonal issues

Skin cycling may also benefit your skin during seasonal changes. According to Mayo Clinic, recovery nights become especially beneficial in the fall as the air becomes increasingly dry and cool. Skin cycling may help prevent your skin from getting dry in the first place so that your skin can potentially handle the elements better.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a way to keep your skin healthy and glowing, skin cycling may be worth a try. But it’s important to talk to a dermatologist first to ensure you’re using the right products for your skin type.

At THERAPYSKIN, we believe in the power of skin cycling. That’s why we offer an extensive selection of organic, high-quality skincare products to help you get the most out of your routine. Our products are designed to give you a holistic, full-body skincare experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and beautiful inside and out.