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TikTok trend alert!
Popularized by dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, a four-day cycle approach to skincare has gained traction online. While it might be making waves on TikTok, many dermatologists, like Dr. Loretta Pratt, have advocated for this method for years. Let’s dive into the fun and fresh world of skin cycling and discover how to achieve glowing skin with this simple routine.
Step 1: Daytime routine
Keep It Simple: Start your morning routine the same way each day by cleansing, adding any desired serums, and, of course, applying sunscreen. According to Dr. Pratt, the final step in your daytime routine should always be a sunscreen or SPF product tailored to your specific skin type.
Step 2: Nighttime routine
Embrace the Cycle: Nighttime is where the magic of skin cycling truly begins. Follow Dr. Bowe’s four-night schedule:
Day 1: Exfoliation Night On the first night, introduce a chemical exfoliant, such as a gentle at-home peel. This helps to clear away dead skin, leaving your skin smoother and primed to absorb products better in the following days. Top picks include SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Gel Cleanser or Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta universal daily peel.
Day 2: Retinol or Retinoid Night-Night is dedicated to retinol or retinoid application. Start with a gentle cleanser, apply a small amount of retinol, and be cautious not to overdo it, especially if you’re new to retinol. This miracle product stimulates collagen production, reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture. Consider products like Skinbetter Alpharet Overnight Cream or Fleur and Bee ‘A’ Game Serum for retinol beginners.
Day 3 and Day 4: Recovery Nights The next two nights are about giving your skin a break. Simply cleanse and use moisturizer, avoiding products with active ingredients like vitamin A or retinol. Opt for moisturizers like Epionce Medical Barrier Cream or Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer. For extra hydration, consider adding a hyaluronic acid serum.
Step 3: Special considerations
Before diving into skin cycling, it’s essential to start low and go slow, especially for those new to a skincare routine. It may be a TikTok trend, but consult a skincare expert to choose products that suit your skin type. Individuals on Accutane or other acne medications should stick to gentle products, as skin cycling might not be for them.
Dr. Bowes on TikTok
@drwhitneybowe #greenscreen #thatboweglow #dermatologistskincareroutine #skincycling #bestretinol #bestexfoliant #exfoliate #texturedskin #hyperpigmentationtreatment ♬ original sound – Dr. Whitney Bowe
Skin cycling is more than just a viral TikTok trend – it’s a dermatologist-approved method to achieve healthier and glowing skin. With a simple four-day cycle, incorporating exfoliation, retinol, and recovery nights, you can personalize your skincare routine for optimal results. Remember, while cycling with the best products is essential, applying sunscreen in the morning remains the cornerstone of any successful skincare routine. So, give skin cycling a try and let your skin shine with a fresh and exciting approach to skincare.
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