Skin cycling has popped up as a new trend in skincare and has spread to the hair world, where it has gone viral on social media. Beauty influencer Kelsey Griffin is one of those who popularized the term "hair cycling" on TikTok. At the same time, many hairdressers say they have always given their customers advice in line with this new hair routine. So why this "buzz" now and what is the big deal with hair cycling? ByBarb will help you sort this out and perhaps even encourage you to try it.

What is hair cycling?

Hair cycling is about alternating the products you use when washing and caring for your hair to achieve the best results. Just like with skin cycling, hair cycling consists of rest days where the hair gets a chance to repair itself and rest after being treated with special products.

The basic idea is that instead of using the same type of product every time you wash your hair, you should alternate between different products. For example, you don't need to use a detox shampoo or a moisturizing shampoo with every wash. By alternating between different products, you can also address different types of hair problems such as dryness, dandruff, or overproduction of oil.

Benefits of hair cycling

Hair cycling is a good idea for anyone who wants to improve the health of their hair and scalp. It is also especially good for those who have several different hair problems at the same time. For example, if you have problems with both frizz and dry hair, you can use moisturizing products at one wash and products that treat frizz at the next.

Example of a hair cycling routine

Your specific hair cycling routine will depend on your hair type, lifestyle, and how often you wash your hair. The beauty of hair cycling is that the routine can be completely customized to suit your specific hair care needs.

First wash: Detox and cleanse

• Start with a gentle cleansing or detoxifying product or a scalp treatment.

• Then try “double cleansing” with a sulfate-free shampoo. Double cleansing is good, as the first cleanse removes product buildup, while the second wash cleans the scalp.

• Finish the washing routine by using a moisturizing conditioner.

• As a final step, you can focus on restoring scalp and hair health by using a product that promotes hair growth and a moisturizing hair oil that counteracts frizz and adds shine.

Second wash: Hydration and strengthening

• Since the first wash in the cycle focused on detoxifying and cleansing the hair, the second wash in the cycle should skip that step entirely and go straight to double cleansing the hair. Overuse of cleansing or detoxifying products can be harsh on both the scalp and ends. Instead, you can use a moisturizing shampoo to restore moisture and shine.

• Then condition the hair with a moisturizing hair mask. Choose products with proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants to provide long-lasting hydration to damaged ends.

• Finish the washing routine with a leave-in conditioner to reduce frizz, prevent damage, and strengthen the hair. Or try a reparative product such as a leave-in product or a treatment course.

• For good styling, work in a volumizing, smoothing, or moisturizing conditioning spray or a product with fatty acids, antioxidants, and proteins to lock in moisture and natural oils and counteract frizz and repair chemical damage.

Again, your hair cycling routine depends entirely on how often you wash your hair, your hair type, and what your "hair goals" are. But if you've been looking for a way to address several different hair problems, hair cycling might be worth trying. Good luck!