Here’s how to start “skin cycling”: Start by simplifying the steps in your skin care routine. Choose a gentle facial cleanser, an over-the-counter retinol or prescription strength retinoid, and a moisturizer that best fits your skin type. That’s all you really need to get started on a skin cycling routine.

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.

The rotation begins with exfoliation on the first night, followed by retinol on the second night. The third and fourth nights are dedicated to recovery with skin barrier-protecting serums and moisturizers. Then, the cycle repeats.

Exfoliate on the first night Use a retinol or retinoid on the second night Hydrate and nourish your skin barrier on the third and fourth nights Restart the “skin cycle” on the fifth night