The concept of this routine is to introduce an acid based exfoliant or peel on day one, then a retinoid on day two, buffering it with moisturizer. The following days focus on hydrating and soothing the skin, no ‘actives’ to be used. You then repeat this weekly cycle.

Skin cycling absolutely works. By using retinol and an exfoliant only a few times a week and never at the same time. “The two-word sound bite nugget emphasizes what we as dermatologists have been preaching all along: Look at your skincare routine on a weekly view, not daily, ” says dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD.

Skin cycling is a skincare routine that follows a four-day rotation. The first night you exfoliate with an AHA/BHA, the second night you apply a retinoid, and then the following two nights are a “recovery” period where you focus on hydration and barrier repair. Then you start over again.

Skin cycling is a four-day skincare routine that involves cycling between exfoliants, retinol-based products, and moisturizers. This allows your skin to rest which, in theory, can improve skin health and reduce irritation from active ingredients or harsh exfoliants.