Skin cycling is the kind of TikTok trend all TikTok trends want to be. Here’s what it’s all about:
Most of us have, at one point or another, fallen into the beautiful clutches of the TikTok algorithm.
Especially if you’re an active member on BeautyTok, you know that the saga of the ‘must-try’ trends is somewhat neverending on the app, and not always exactly trustworthy.
TikTok’s beauty trends are either a great hit, or a big mess. DIY face freckles using henna, for one, are definitely not something you should do by yourself despite what the gurus of the internet tell you.
As the last stretch of the year begins, we’ve all been privy to an outburst of new trends from all angles – Fashion Weeks, spring momentum, that general pre-festive season beauty push, and of course TikTok’s latest and greatest.
So, what are the kids onto now and is it actually worth taking notes on?
The latest trend hot on the screens is called ‘Skin Cycling.’ Now, before you start imaging some horrific kind of skin peeling or bicycle art tattoos, here’s what it actually entails:
As shared by an American dermatologist, Dr. Whitney Bowe, Skin Cycling challenges the ‘more is better’ outlook when it comes to skincare routines. Skyrocketing millions of views, the trend has quickly become the skincare 101 staple for beginners.
@drwhitneybowe Skin cycling for beginners: how to get started. And how to layer with Bowe Glowe #skincycling #thatboweglow #dermatologist #skintok ♬ original sound – Dr. Whitney Bowe
Skin Cycling in a nutshell:
Skin Cycling is a four-day rotational cycle that focuses on a different element or combination of skincare rituals each night so that you aren’t stuck with layers upon layers of skincare products that might not always agree with each other.
It’s all about recovery, as Harpar’s Bazaar tells, in the same way you would allow your body recovery time after a gym session’s left you wondering if you’ll ever be able to walk down the stairs without wincing again.
Here’s how to do it:
Night #1: Exfoliation station
Exfoliating is the star of the show for your first night. According to Bowe, you’ll want to ideally use a blend of different ‘acids’ (alpha or beta-hydroxy for my detail detectives per Self) to get rid of the dead skin, leaving you with a glow that’ll make people say “are you Zendaya?”
Let your moisturizer do its magic before you go to sleep, and gear up for a day of healthier skin.
Night #2: Retinoid magic
A skincare staple, Retinoids pack a punch when it comes to vitamin A goodness – the showstopper when it comes to reducing wrinkles, scarring and even some cases of acne. Beware though: Retinoids are no Mickey Mouse ingredient, so when it comes to using them, the rule is never to overdo it.
Use a moisturiser, followed by a tiny dash of Retinoids, and finish off with moisturiser again in what’s known as the ‘sandwhich method’.
Night #3 and #4
On the last two nights of the cycle, it’s time to introduce your hydrating serums; the products that will nourish your skin according to Dr Bowe. Let the skin rest up by using products that repair your canvas, and opt for fragrance-free options if you can, for less risk of irritation.
Ready to give your skin its workout? Let us know if Skin Cycling has you singing its praises.
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Feature Image: Pexels
