Why skin cycling is the key to powerful results without the side effects
One of the core principles here at The Skin Diary is using a skin cycling system with our personalised prescription skincare service, Chapters, to deliver the best results. You might be wondering what exactly skin cycling is, though.
We’re going to explain exactly what it is, the science behind it, skin cycling benefits and an example of skin cycling.
What is skin cycling?
Despite being popular on social media these days, it’s a method that dermatologists have been using for years in practice. Essentially, skin cycling involves strategically choosing various ingredients in a specific sequence over the course of a week to best suit your skin and avoid irritation.
Active ingredients are a core element of a transformative skincare routine, but not if they’re used at the incorrect time and dose. There can certainly be too much of a good thing when it comes to powerful skincare ingredients; if you don’t follow a skin cycling system you won’t get their full benefits and are likely to experience irritation.
These active ingredients are combined with skin-supporting ingredients. Actives include ingredients like retinoids and acid exfoliators (like glycolic acid) focusing on exfoliation and cell renewal. Meanwhile supporting ingredients include hyaluronic acid and ceramides focusing on moisture and barrier repair.
The science behind skin cycling?
The main reason skin cycling works so well is because it supports a healthy skin barrier. The skin barrier is the building blocks (or cells) of healthy skin made up of lipids (like ceramides and fatty acids).
It’s important that this barrier is healthy and functioning in order to have skin that can protect itself. A compromised skin barrier can include dryness, irritation, redness, sensitivity and inflammation. This can exacerbate or trigger any existing skin conditions and generally make your skin look and feel unhappy.
Powerful ingredients used incorrectly and too often can compromise the skin barrier. Although they’re brilliant ingredients for the skin, they can’t be over-used.
This is where skin cycling comes in. Your skin gets all the benefits of potent actives while also allowing it to recover in between.
In short: you’re mixing exfoliation days with recovery days.
The benefits of skin cycling?
There are a bunch of skin cycling benefits, which include:
- Reduces irritation by allowing skin barrier repair
- Improves the efficacy of your actives by allowing a recovery period
- Takes the guesswork of an effective skincare routine using potent ingredients
- Embraces a less is more philosophy, which is crucial for healthy skin
How The Skin Diary uses skin cycling?
You can find an example of The Skin Diary’s skin cycling routine steps through our Chapters routine below. However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is different; your Chapters routine is created for your specific skin needs.
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
Day 4:
Day 5:
Day 6:
Day 7:
Although the premise of skin cycling is simple, it can be a little confusing to determine what products you should be using and when. This is why we created Chapters. Our team of consultant dermatologists curated routines designed specifically for you to ensure maximum results without side effects. We never just leave you to it, either. We monitor your progress and are on hand for any questions or concerns you may have.
We encourage a thoughtful and deliberate approach to your skincare routine for the best results.
Start your skin journey today using prescription ingredients in a smart skin cycling system — we’ve done all the hard work for you.
Skin cycling FAQs
Is skin cycling good for sensitive skin?
Yes, skin cycling is fantastic for sensitive skin. This is because the premise of cycling your skincare is to avoid any potential irritation or side effects caused by active ingredients.
How long does it take to see results from skin cycling?
Consistency is key when it comes to any skincare routine, including one following skin cycling. You should expect to see results after 30 days and continue to see improvement thereafter following an expert-recommended routine.
Do dermatologists recommend skin cycling?
Yes, absolutely. Our team of consultant dermatologists recommend and encourage skin cycling. However, it’s always best to do so with expert help to ensure you’re using the right products for your skin type and condition to see best results.
Do you purge with skin cycling?
