Trying out a new skincare routine can often feel like a balancing act. How do you incorporate potent ingredients without causing irritation? Dr. Leela Athalye, our esteemed board-certified dermatologist, sheds light on the concept of skin cycling, aligning perfectly with Blume's philosophy of effective yet gentle skincare.
"Skin cycling revolves around the idea of using potent ingredients gradually, ensuring their effectiveness without harshness. This aligns seamlessly with Blume's core message," explains Dr. Athalye. "Even the most powerful ingredients won't deliver results if the skin barrier is disrupted and irritated."
One of Dr. Athalye's recommendations for this approach is the Meltdown Gel Cream with ceramides. "It's crucial to treat hyperpigmentation with ingredients that not only target the concern but do so gently. Meltdown Gel Cream offers a perfect balance, combining effective treatment with moisturizing ingredients that are gentle on the skin."
A product you definitely need to consider when skin cycling is Blume’s Milky Fade Serum. “Blume’s spot and scar fade serum, Milky Fade, contains niacinamide, bilberry, and vitamin C. It not only lives up to its name by addressing spots and scars but also rehydrates and soothes the skin, providing a plumping and brightening effect.”
Lastly, Dr. Athalye’s absolute favourite product to recommend to her patients is Blume Buds—essentially, skin cycling in a sticker. Dr. Athalye highlights the thoughtful combination of active ingredients and protective elements. "Blume Buds are designed for gentle exfoliation with salicylic acid, paired with a protective hydrocolloid. It's an intelligent way to cycle active ingredients through the skin without causing undue stress."
In the realm of skincare, understanding and respecting the skin's natural cycle is pivotal. Dr. Athalye emphasizes, "It's not just about what ingredients you use; it's about how you use them. Patience and a gentle approach yield the most sustainable and effective results."
To properly skin cycle, Dr. Athalye recommends using strong, active ingredient products like retinol on a 1-day-on, 3-days-off schedule. This means using your retinol one day and cycling off, opting for your hydrating, gentle yet powerful skincare routine. This gives your skin a chance to breathe and heal from the harsh effects of retinol. Allowing your skin time to breathe enables it to soak up the benefits of the retinol when using it.
Here is a proper skin cycling routine recommended by Dr. Athalye with Blume:
One day on retinol:
- Step 1: Cleanse with Daydreamer Face Wash
- Step 2: Apply your chosen retinol product
- Step 3: Treat and protect active blemishes with Blume Buds Acne Patches
- Step 4: Fade spots and scars, while hydrating the skin with Milky Fade Spot and Scar Fade Serum
- Step 5: Lock it all in with Meltdown Gel Cream
Three days off retinol, repairing your skin barrier:
- Step 1: Cleanse with Daydreamer Face Wash
- Step 2: Treat and protect active blemishes with Blume Buds Acne Patches
- Step 3: Fade spots and scars, while hydrating the skin with Milky Fade Spot and Scar Fade Serum
- Step 4: Repair and restore your skin barrier with Skin Therapy 5-in-1 Face Oil
Dr. Athalye encourages everyone to embrace the idea of skin cycling in their routines. "Consistency is key. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to skincare. It's not a sprint; it's a marathon, and your skin deserves the best care you can give it."
Have you tried skin cycling? We want to know!
