Retinoid Cycling: A Smarter, More Balanced Way to Use Vitamin A in Skincare

Move over Skin Cycling, we recommend Retinoid Cycling as the new way to more effectively use retinoids for the skin of your dreams

For years, skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists alike have hailed Vitamin A derivatives—especially prescription retinoids—as the gold standard for reducing visible signs of aging. But what if there’s a better, more balanced way to harness their power?

What Is Retinoid Cycling?

Retinoid cycling is an innovative approach that we developpeto using Vitamin A that shifts the focus from maximum concentration and frequency to variety and strategic rotation. Instead of pushing your skin to tolerate the strongest retinoid every night, retinoid cycling encourages using different forms of Vitamin A derivatives throughout the week.

Why Challenge Traditional Retinoid Use?

The conventional wisdom says:
“Use the highest concentration of a retinoid your skin can handle as often as you can.”

But this approach doesn't consider one key factor: your skin has multiple types of retinoid receptors—six, to be exact—and different forms of Vitamin A bind to these receptors differently. That means different derivatives offer different benefits.

Think of It Like Eating the Rainbow

Just as nutritionists advise eating a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables to nourish your body with a wide spectrum of nutrients, your skin can benefit from a diverse range of retinoids. Each derivative activates different retinoid receptors and provides unique skin benefits, including:

• Cellular turnover

• Collagen production

• Hydration

• Exfoliation

By diversifying your Vitamin A routine, you’re essentially giving your skin a more complete, multi-faceted treatment over time.

Common Vitamin A Derivatives Explained

To effectively cycle your retinoids, it's helpful to understand the different types:

• Retinoid Estersk- excellent balance between potency and efficacy. Does not require any conversion in the skin to be used by retinoid receptors.

• Retinal Palmitate - the most ‘mild’ option but very low efficacy

• Retinol – moderately potent, commonly found in over-the-counter products, requires two stages of conversion to bind with retnoid receptors

• Retinal – more potent than retinol, faster-acting but can be irritating

• Prescription Retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) – highly effective but potentially very irritating

• Bakuchiol – a plant-based alternative that mimics retinoid effects without irritation

Sample Retinoid Cycling Routine

Here’s a simple, skin-friendly weekly retinoid cycling routine:

• Monday: Use Cyberderm Retin+Erase (a gentle retinoid blend)

• Tuesday: Focus on hydration (e.g., hyaluronic acid, barrier-repairing moisturizers)

• Wednesday: Apply a bakuchiol serum

• Thursday: Gently exfoliate with glycolic acid

• Friday: Use a prescription retinoid (like tretinoin or adapalene)

• Saturday & Sunday: Prioritize hydration and skin recovery

Pro Tip:

When introducing this method, always listen to your skin. If any redness, flaking, or irritation occurs, dial it back and give your skin extra hydration and barrier support.

Benefits of Retinoid Cycling

• Reduces the risk of irritation and inflammation

• Targets multiple skin concerns through different pathways

• Builds long-term skin resilience

• Encourages a holistic approach to skincare

Final Thoughts: Is Retinoid Cycling Right for You?

If you’ve struggled with traditional retinoid use or are looking for a smarter, more well-rounded way to treat your skin, retinoid cycling might be the upgrade your routine needs. It’s not about using more—it’s about using smarter.

As with any skincare change, consistency and personalization are key. Speak with a dermatologist if you’re unsure which derivatives are right for your skin type.

If you want to drill down further on which Vitamin A derivative, or if you are having a hard time accessing prescription tretinoin, read this handy guide for how to pick the best alternative.