There seems to be a new trend in skincare every week and sometimes I am loath to cover them because they can often be damaging or compromise the skin barrier. Many of the Tik Tok generation have not yet encountered things such as fine lines or indeed a bad skin day.
From a skincare perspective however Skin Cycling is something I absolutely endorse. It is a very cohesive and safe way to use active ingredients in skin care and avoid compromising your skin barrier. It allows your skin to have rest days and is so effective and most dermatologists believe it to be very effective and have been recommending it for years. Obviously if you have a good routine and a great retinoid that suits your skin there is little need to start cycling, but if it irritates you then it is time to get going. It is important to say that cycling is relevant to night time only in my opinion.
To get started with skin cycling, you’ll need: An exfoliator (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) or if you prefer an exfoliation mask. This step is quite important as if you choose a product that sensitises your skin then you will damage the barrier for the next step.
A retinoid (think retinol or retinaldehyde), this will be your night time serum, and is a gold standard skincare product. Skin cyscling is an excellent way of introducing this product into your routine without the dreaded retinol purge.
A moisturiser , something reparative and soothing is always a great option. This needs to suit your skin type, mature and dry skins benefot from lipid and ceramide based products. Oilier skins may rather a gel or HA based moisturier, You use the reparative product for two nights and then start again.
Skin cycling doesn’t apply to day time use. I always opt for a double cleanse, spritz, vitamin C antioxidant and SPF for daytime.
This can just turn into your consistent routine. I have included one more budget friendly and one luxe alternative for each product type.
So let’s get recommending
Exfoliation products- Skin Formulas Mask Exfoliator- An ultra hydrating mask containing fruit enzymes. Gently exfoliates to remove build up of dead skin cells and adds essential antioxidants to improve general skin health. Perfect for all skin types and rosacea affected skin. Nourishing active ingredients promote a healthier, more radiant appearance. €35.00
Nuxe Insta-Masque Exfoliating + Unifying Mask €19.90 This exfoliating mask combines the benefits of Rose floral water with Macadamia oil and a natural-origin fine exfoliating powder to exfoliate and even out the skin in just 2 minutes. Skin texture is instantly smoother and the complexion is brighter.It’s ultra-sensory gel texture transforms into an oil when massaged for a very gentle moment of pleasure.
Retinols-
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol- €25.00 Gentle yet effective, CeraVe continues to work its ceramide magic with the Resurfacing Retinol Cream to tackle acne marks and uneven skin tone. When you’re tired of post-inflammatory marks serving as a constant reminder of its past life, this cream can help to fade those stubborn marks by resurfacing and refining skin via encapsulated retinol and barrier-restoring ingredients
Neostrata Active Retinol Repair €83.00
This concentrated complex delivers high-strength 0.5% pure, stabilised Retinol in a time-release delivery system along with NeoGlucosamine to synergistically target skin’s natural volumizing matrix, for a firmer, lifted look. These powerful ingredients are also known to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.
Targets skin’s volumising matrix for a firmer, more lifted look. Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Microencapsulated Retinol enhances tolerability,#
Hydrator / Repair-
Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore €23.00 – Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 has been clinically proven to improve the visible appearance of skin smoothness, laxity, pores, and overall radiance.
BENEFITS. Restores essential skin lipids: ceramides, natural cholesterol, and fatty acids. Improves the look of skin fullness, texture, and pore appearance. Improves the appearance of skin evenness and overall radiance. Provides improved hydration for 8 hours, ideal for dry skin A lightweight and fast-absorbing texture which ,eans that your face won’t stick to the pillow.
La Roche Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Creme €21.00
A nourishing and soothing cream that is clinically proven to hydrate skin and reduce signs of sensitivity such as dryness, tightness, and itchiness. Toleriane Dermallergo Cream reinforces the skin barrier function and provides up to 48h hydration for immediate relief. Approved by Allergy UK, the gentle formula helps reduce redness and itchiness associated with dry skin. Its nourishing yet lightweight texture leaves skin feeling comfortable. It is the perfect post treatment.
GlamityJane 