We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Chica Here's How the Viral "Skin Cycling" Routine Can Improve Your Skin This #TikTokTuesday, we’re exploring a skin care trend that’s actually dermatologist-approved. Por Laura Acosta Publicado en Agosto 30, 2022 05:18PM EDT We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Foto: Getty Images We've covered a fair share of TikTok hack fails, from anti-itch lotion as a primer to using tape to eliminate wrinkles. Now, the app is obsessed with a new approach to a balanced skin care routine and thankfully, the advice comes straight from a dermatologist. First coined by Dr. Whitney Bowe, "skin cycling" is a method of incorporating exfoliation and retinol into your routine that maximizes efficacy while protecting your skin barrier. Essentially, your routine cycles through four nights: night one you exfoliate, night two you use retinol and then on nights three and four you let your skin rest from harsh actives. Follow along as we break down each step of the routine below Night One: Exfoliation On her TikTok, Dr. Bowe recommends starting things off with a chemical or non-scrub exfoliant. The idea behind this step is to gently remove dead skin cells, which will help retinol work more effectively on the next night. Your routine should go as follows: wash face, exfoliate and moisturize. Courtesy of Sisley Sisley Paris, Exfoliating Enzyme Mask, $135, sisley-paris.com If you're looking for an effective yet gentle natural exfoliant that works without any micro-particles, we recommend this Exfoliating Enzyme Mask. Night Two: Retinol Next comes the powerful anti-aging and acne-fighting ingredient. Retinol stimulates your skin's cell turnover and collagen production but can be quite irritating for first-time users, which is why using gentle formulas and spacing out applications like in skin cycling can be beneficial. Courtesy of Eve Lom Eve Lom, Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, $185, evelom.com If you're just starting out with the ingredient, try a gentle formula with encapsulated retinol first. As with the first night, you should still wash and moisturize before and after. Nights Three & Four: Hydration Finally, the last two days of your routine are as easy as can be. Stick to gentle cleansing and hydration through the use of rich moisturizers and serums. Courtesy of La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay, Cicaplast Balm, $17.69, target.com Overall, this routine is about getting to know your skin and being gentle with harsh actives, especially when starting out with something like retinol—feel free to alternate as needed!