Within the last few years, the natural skin trend has only become more popular, along with lighter makeup coverage or none at all. With that emphasis, more and more people are turning to their skincare routines, and more specifically, the skin cycling technique, to create a clear, even, radiant complexion they won’t want to cover. Let's go over the details of this method that seems like it’s here to stay!
At GlyMed, we believe in a balanced approach to skincare. Our philosophy centers on the mindful use of professional skincare products, following a routine that allows each active ingredient to have the most impact. This intentional application of our science-backed formulations delivers both visible results and supportive care.
This balanced approach aligns perfectly with our concept of skin cycling at GlyMed+. We’ve been supporting this method of home care for over 30 years!
Dr. Whitney Bowe, a New York-based dermatologist, is responsible for coining and popularizing this method. This refers to a rotational skincare process that alternates between active ingredients and letting the skin rest. Its main focus is to avoid irritating the skin and protect the skin barrier function.
Skin cycling is a strategic four-day evening skincare regimen that rotates between "treatment" nights and "recovery" nights to keep your skin barrier safe. On treatment nights, you apply powerful active ingredients, either exfoliants or retinoids. On recovery nights, you hit the pause button and focus on hydration. By giving your skin these scheduled breaks, you can make sure it never feels overwhelmed.
This technique is a structured, easy-to-follow routine designed to minimize irritation and empower your skin health.
This process may not seem like anything revolutionary; that's because skincare professionals have been saying for years not to mix chemical exfoliants and retinoids or, at the very least, not to use too many active ingredients at once. But by assigning specific days for specific product types, your skin will get the full benefits of each ingredient without being overwhelmed.
For beginners, a skin cycling routine can help you introduce powerful actives without the dreaded irritation. For skincare enthusiasts, this method can maximize your results for a brighter, healthier and more confident you. Whether you have sensitive skin or are looking to simplify your regimen, it's a great technique to try.
Excited to start? Here's the GlyMed+ 4-Step System we recommend.
Use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser.
Use serums with antioxidants to protect your skin from the free radical damage it encounters daily.
Use a moisturizer each morning to maintain skin health.
Always wear your sunscreen!
Use something creamy and gentle, like one of the suggested morning cleansers.
You can use the same gentle cleanser for your second cleanse, but if you're looking for extra exfoliation or a deeper clean, you might prefer one of the following formulas:
Whether you use an AHA or a BHA depends on your skin needs and should be discussed with your skincare professional.
Our Retinol Rejuvenation Serum is micro-encapsulated to gently deliver the maximum concentration of Retinol without causing an adverse reaction. You may also use a prescription-strength retinoid during this step, but it must be prescribed by a board-certified doctor familiar with your other skincare products.
Always use a moisturizer before bed to seal in all the products you’ve applied.
Rest nights are essential for allowing your skin to recover and breathe. The break from intense active ingredients promotes long-term health and balance. On Night 3 and 4, stick to the basics—use the same cleansers and moisturizers from your morning routine or add additional supportive products:
Anyone can try skin cycling! With the help of a skincare professional, you can adjust the GlyMed+ 4-Step System for your unique skin type.
Love add-ons? You can easily incorporate them into your routine!
These are just a few ways to cycle your skincare. The most important thing is to consult with your esthetician before making major changes. And remember, if you’re happy with your current routine and seeing great results, there’s no need to switch things up just to follow a trend.
Whether you’re new to skincare or just curious to learn more about skin cycling, a GlyMed Professional can help you begin the perfect GlyMed regimen tailored just for you. Click here to find a GlyMed Pro.
Here’s to happier and healthier skin!
Skin cycling is a strategic four-night regimen that alternates between "treatment" and "recovery" nights. By rotating chemical exfoliants and retinoids followed by two nights of deep hydration, you maximize the efficacy of active ingredients while preventing irritation and protecting your skin's natural barrier.
Skin cycling is for everyone, from beginners to skincare enthusiasts. It is especially effective for those looking to introduce powerful actives like Retinol without the common side effects of redness or flaking.
Start by following the GlyMed+ four-night structure: Night 1 is for chemical exfoliation, Night 2 is for retinoids and Nights 3 and 4 are for rest. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers on recovery nights to restore the skin. Always apply SPF every morning to protect your results.
We recommend starting with professional-grade formulations like Accelerator Gel with 20% Alpha Hydroxy Acids for exfoliation and our micro-encapsulated Retinol Rejuvenation Serum. For recovery nights and daily maintenance, support your skin barrier with the Vitamin C Cleanser, Restoring Fulvic Elixir and Daily Repair Cream.
Yes. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, you can extend the recovery phase to three or more nights or use gentler exfoliants to ensure the skin acclimates without unwanted side effects like redness or flaking.
While immediate smoothing occurs after the first exfoliation night, significant improvements in texture, fine lines and overall radiance typically become visible after two or three full cycles (8 – 12 days). This timeline aligns with the skin’s natural turnover process.