Skin cycling – the skincare technique gaining viral popularity on TikTok – involves rotating active ingredients and recovery nights to help minimise irritation while maximising efficacy.
But while this method is new to consumers, many skincare professionals will recognise its principles as foundational practice.
We asked dermatologists, formulators and skincare educators to break down the science of skin cycling, explore who it’s suitable for, and share how you can incorporate it safely into your patients' skincare routines.
What is skin cycling and why is it trending?
Skin cycling refers to a structured skincare routine that alternates active ingredients with rest or recovery nights.
Consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips explains, “Skin cycling is a rotational skincare routine that alternates between applying actives one night and then allowing the skin to recover the next.”
While it has gone viral in the last couple of years, the technique is not new. “It’s what we’ve always recommended, especially for beginners or people with no specific concerns requiring continuous treatment,” says skincare formulator Cigdem Kemal Yilmaz, founder of Skin Masterclass.
How skin cycling works in clinical skincare
Skin cycling doesn’t require purchasing new products – it’s about strategic use of actives already in a patient’s routine. “It’s a method, not a product,” says Yilmaz.
Recovery days are built into the routine to support skin repair and tolerance.
Dr Phillips notes, “Its growing popularity comes from its ability to enhance efficacy while reducing irritation – by cycling active and inactive nights, the skin has time to adjust and repair.”
Key benefits of skin cycling for patients
Skin cycling is ideal for patients introducing actives like glycolic acid, salicylic acid or retinol.
“It’s a simple method that separates actives clearly, reducing confusion and the risk of overuse,” explains Jon-Paul Hoy, educator for device brand 3D Aesthetics.
Recovery nights are crucial for managing sensitisation, especially with stronger actives.
“It helps reduce side effects like redness, peeling and burning, while still improving the appearance and function of the skin over time,” adds Dr Phillips.
Is skin cycling suitable for every skin type?
Skin cycling is adaptable, but not always suitable for highly sensitive skin types.
“Correct product selection is essential. For example, skin with rosacea may need longer cycles, while oily or acne-prone skin might benefit from shorter ones,” says Dr Phillips.
Yilmaz recommends starting with a three-night cycle: one night acid, one night retinoid, followed by a recovery night.
“If tolerated, clients can skip recovery nights – as long as they support the skin with ceramides, peptides and emollients.”
How to educate patients on skin cycling safely
Patient education is key to ensuring they use actives correctly.
Hoy advises, “Understanding their current habits and routines is essential. The simplicity of cycling actives on specific days makes it easy to follow, especially with digital resources or clinic events.”
Opportunities for education include:
- In-clinic consultations and personalised routines
- Social media posts and live Q&As
- Workshops or events focused on ingredient knowledge
- Visual guides or printed take-home instructions
Ingredient pairings: what to combine and what to avoid
As part of any educational effort, it’s crucial to highlight safe ingredient combinations – and those that should be avoided. Dr Phillips recommends the following:
Avoid these combinations:
- Vitamin C + AHAs
- Vitamin C + retinol
- Retinol + AHAs or benzoyl peroxide
- AHAs + niacinamide
Recommended combinations:
- Retinol + hyaluronic acid or glycerin
- Vitamin C + vitamin E or ferulic acid
