How does skin cycling work?
The concept of skin cycling allows for a balance between these two effective-yet-potentially-irritating ingredients. Alternating the use of exfoliant and retinol — and following them up with two nights of recovery — allows the skin time to build tolerances and reduces the potential of overdoing it.
Other dermatologists generally agree. As Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, says “Focusing on one active or process at a time allows for maximal results and minimal irritation. Although as time goes on, many can multitask by combining some of these steps. It often depends on comfort level and level of skin sensitivity.”
But, as it goes for all skin care, you’ve got to consider your own specific skin type. “Starting low and going slow is great. It all depends on who you are, your skin type, and what the goal is your wanting to get out,” Marchbein tells Allure. “This is a technique that allows you to build up.” When it comes to her patients, she says every skin-care routine is (and should be) different. She ultimately stresses the importance of having a conversation with your dermatologist before incorporating certain products into your regimen.
If you’re not ready to jump right into skin cycling, here’s what Dr. Marchbein suggests: “I love the idea of alternating things, but a good skin-care routine comes with gentle cleansing twice a day, plus sunscreen and vitamin C in the morning. Once a week, Sunday night, I have patients do a chemical exfoliant.” If a patient’s skin can’t tolerate once a week, she says she’ll have them exfoliate once every two weeks.
