What is skin cycling and how can it work for you?

If you're an avid user of TikTok (or maybe just a skincare enthusiast), you may already be familiar with the latest beauty trend: skin cycling. The concept, which has already been given the seal of approval by several skin experts and dermatologists, is intended to help prevent the skin barrier from being compromised by the overuse of too many active ingredients.

Skin cycling only applies to your night-time skincare regime and involves strategically rotating certain products on different nights of the week. By using a chemical exfoliator on night one, your retinol or retinoid on night two, and repairing and hydrating products on nights three and four, you will reduce the risk of irritation and dryness, and ultimately prioritise vital rest and recovery for your skin.

Below is an example of a skin cycle you can try using OSKIA products you already know and love.

SKIN CYCLING ROUTINE

NIGHT 1

Cleanse skin, pat dry and then exfoliate with a chemical exfoliant. We recommend our Liquid Mask which is gentle but still very effective, left on the skin for at least 10 minutes and then followed by our Rest Day Comfort Cream.

NIGHT 2

After cleansing, apply your retinol or retinoid - absorption will be maximised following the exfoliation of any dead skin cells the night before. Apply one Super-R capsule to clean dry skin and follow with Rest Day Comfort Cream or your favourite night cream.

NIGHT 3

Cleanse skin using your usual cleanser such as Renaissance Cleansing Gel or Rest Day Cleansing Milk. Focus on hydration and barrier repair with a product that contains lipids, ceramides, triglycerides, and peptides. Apply Isotonic Hydra-Serum to damp skin, followed by Rest Day Comfort Cream or Restoration Oil for a nourishing boost.

NIGHT 4

Continue focusing on hydration and barrier repair by following the same steps as night 3. For skin that is extra dry or sensitive, try replacing Rest Day Comfort Cream with Restoration Oil or our new Rest Day Barrier Balm.

Complete the cycle and repeat!