Metabolic Cycling

Healthy young skin renews itself on an approximately 28-day cycle. With age, both collagen production and the renewal cycle slow. By the 40s the cycle extends to approximately 45 days. By the 60s, closer to 60. In later years, up to 90 days between cycles.

Metabolic Cycling works with both of these realities at once. By supporting the skin's natural renewal process at the surface, it clears the way for active ingredients to reach the living layers below — where collagen synthesis, cellular communication, and tissue repair actually happen.

Metabolic treatments are most effective when the skin is properly prepared. Barrier condition, recent treatments, seasonal factors, and home care all influence how the skin responds. Preparation recommendations are made at your appointment based on where your skin is starting from.

A well-formulated clinical retinol used consistently is actually ideal preparation. For standard appointments, pausing retinol one to two days before is sufficient.

Prescription tretinoin is a different conversation. For more advanced levels, discontinuing tretinoin for a minimum of two weeks prior is required.

For maintenance, a quarterly or seasonal cadence is often sufficient. For clients addressing a specific concern — active acne, hyperpigmentation, sun damage — a closer-spaced series produces faster and more cumulative correction.

Series 1 treatments can be repeated as often as every two to four weeks without recovery periods or barrier compromise. The skin doesn't need time to recover. It simply continues improving.

Yes — freshly treated skin is more susceptible to UV damage and hyperpigmentation, which makes fall and winter ideal for more intensive work. In spring and summer, lighter treatments with barrier-supportive formulations are prioritized. In Charleston's climate, year-round sun protection is essential regardless of treatment season.

Each metabolic treatment builds on the last. The first session initiates a renewal response. Subsequent sessions catch the skin at a more receptive point in its cycle, allowing active ingredients to penetrate more efficiently and produce deeper correction over time.

Think of it as compound interest for the skin. A single treatment produces a noticeable shift. A consistent series produces cumulative, progressive change that no single session could achieve on its own.

Series 1 is appropriate for nearly all skin types, including sensitive skin and first-time clients. It is the recommended starting point for anyone new to metabolic treatments.

More advanced levels are introduced by your practitioner based on your skin's readiness, treatment history, home care, and goals. You never need to self-select a level — your practitioner will guide that progression.

Series 1 and 1+ treatments produce little to no visible peeling for most clients. The absence of dramatic peeling is not a sign that the treatment hasn't worked. The change is happening at a cellular level.

For Wintering treatments, some clients experience visible renewal in the days following. The degree of visible response varies based on skin preparation and individual biology. What to expect will always be discussed with you in advance.