What You Need to Know About Skin Cycling

Following our recent article that looked at 7 Skincare Trends for 2023, one of the most asked about trends was the concept of skin cycling – why it is important and the best way to incorporate it into a skincare routine. 

What is Skin Cycling?

Generally speaking, skin cycling is a skin-care routine that allows for “rest days” during the week, so that your skin can repair itself after using certain products. There is no one-size fits all approach to skin cycling, however, and you can really personalize your routine to meet your both skincare goals and needs. 

As we mentioned in that article, Lead Patient Care Coordinator, Deann Hanna, is a strong advocate of skin cycling when it comes to her use of Retin-A.  Because these products can be harsh on the skin, it’s important to take care when incorporate them into your skincare routine. But, Dee reiterates “we definitely want to get one of them in your skincare regimen because you will notice the difference.”  

Why is Skin Cycling Important?

The idea is that adopting a skin cycling routine can help prevent the skin barrier from being compromised due to overuse of active ingredients—plus, it’s a great way to create a consistent and effective routine that helps the skin work optimally. While traditional skin cycling typically includes rest days from the use of certain types of products, it is also possible to get the benefits of skin cycling by alternative types of products. 

In Dee’s case, that means she alternates her use of Obagi Tretinoin  (Retin-A) with Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex, which is also in the Retin-A family of products, but is not as harsh on the skin. Retivance is specifically designed for those with sensitive skin and “is calming and soothing, but you are still going to get those great benefits.”

Dee’s Skin Cycling Routine

Instead of piling more products on top of each other, skin cycling encourages the use of products strategically so that they actually complement one another. 

To get started with skin cycling, you need to focus on exfoliation and hydration, says Dee. Exfoliation helps to prepare your skin for the Retin-A product by encouraging cellular turnover while hydration helps to soothe and repair the skin. 

Dee’s recommended routine and products:

• AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser – Keep it in the shower and use a couple of times per week to supplement your usual cleansing routine.
• Follow with an exfoliating moisturizer like AHA/BHA Cream or Obagi Nu-Derm® Exfoderm 
• Alternate your Retin-A product, like Obagi Tretinoin, with Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex
• If your skin is very dry, you may need to take a night off and use a hydrator like HA⁵® Rejuvenating Hydrator and a moisturizer like Obagi Hydrate Luxe®

As always, we are here to guide you through all aspects of your skincare journey. Request a consultation to receive a customized treatment plan perfectly suited for you and your skin needs.