The Ultimate Guide to Layering Dermalogica's Phyto Nature E2

It is one of the most common question we get asked at Skinmart: "I bought this amazing new product... but where does it actually go?"

With the launch of Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2, the answer isn't immediately obvious.

The texture is as light as water, yet it claims to firm like a heavy serum. It exfoliates, yet it hydrates.

Is it a toner? Is it an essence? Is it a serum?

Technically, it is a new category entirely: The Regenerative Liquid.

Because it breaks the traditional rules of texture, many clients worry about "wasting" it by applying it in the wrong order. If you apply a water-based liquid over a heavy oil, it can’t penetrate.

Here is your definitive guide to "Routine Architecture" and exactly how to Bio-Hack your morning and night regimen with Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2.

To understand where Dermalogica's Phyto Nature E2 fits, you have to follow the universal law of skincare layering: Texture dictates order.

Think of your skin like a sponge. You need to wet the sponge (fluids) before you add the heavy soap (creams/oils). If you put the oil on a dry sponge, the water just runs off.

Deramlogica's Phyto Nature E2 is a Flash-Absorbing Liquid.

Because it creates a pathway for other products to enter, it must go FIRST after cleansing.

If you apply a thick serum or oil before E2, you create a barrier that stops the Exosomes from reaching the target cells deep in the epidermis.

Goal: Protection, Brightening, and "Glass Skin" Finish.

Step 1: Cleanse

• Product: Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel.

• Why: Remove night-time oils and sweat.

Step 2: TREAT (The Activator)

• Product: Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2.

• Technique: Dispense 2 pumps into cupped hands. Press—don't rub—into the face, neck, and chest.

• Why: The Pumpkin Enzymes gently dissolve the dead cells from the night, creating a smooth surface.

Step 3: Correct (The Feeder)

• Product: Dermalogica BioLumin-C Serum (Vitamin C).

• Why: Now that E2 has cleared the dead skin barrier, your Vitamin C can penetrate deeper to fight pigmentation and dullness.

Step 4: Eyes

• Product: Dermalogica Phyto Nature Lifting Eye Cream.

Step 5: Seal & Protect

• Product: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50.

• Why: Lock in the hydration and protect the fresh skin cells from UV damage.

Goal: Deep Turnover and Structural Repair.

Step 1: Pre-Cleanse

• Product: Dermalogica PreCleanse or a Micellar Water.

• Why: Melt away SPF and makeup.

Step 2: Cleanse

• Product: Dermalogica Daily Glycolic Cleanser (or your preferred wash).

Step 3: TREAT (The Buffer)

• Product: Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2.

• Why: At night, your skin enters "Repair Mode." The Exosomes in E2 send the signal to maximise this downtime.

Step 4: Active (The Worker)

• Product: Retinol such as Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum.

• The Science: Yes, you can layer E2 with Retinol. In fact, it is the perfect "Buffer." E2 floods the skin with hydration and strengthens the barrier first, which helps minimise the irritation/dryness often caused by Retinol.

Step 5: Moisturise (The Blanket)

• Product: Dermalogica Super Rich Repair or Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon.

"Does this replace my Toner?"

The Short Answer: Yes, mostly.

The Detail: Traditional toners are for pH balancing or basic hydration. Phyto Nature E2 does both of those things, plus firming and exfoliating.

• If you use a basic hydrating mist: You can skip it and use E2 instead.

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• If you love your mist: Spritz your mist first, then apply E2 while skin is damp.

"Does this replace my Exfoliant (Daily Microfoliant)?"

The Short Answer: It replaces your Daily exfoliant, but not your Weekly peel.

The Detail: Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 contains Pumpkin Enzymes which provide a gentle, daily micro-exfoliation.

• For Sensitive Skin: You likely don't need another exfoliant. E2 is enough.

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• For Resilient/Oily Skin: Use E2 daily, and then do a "Power Exfoliation" once a week with Rapid Reveal Peel or Liquid Peelfoliant to catch what the enzymes missed.

"Can I use it with Niacinamide?"

Yes. Niacinamide helps with barrier health and pores. It pairs beautifully with the Exosomes in E2. Apply E2 first (as it's thinner), and your Niacinamide serum second.

"How much do I actually need?"

2 Pumps.

Because it spreads like water, you might be tempted to use more. Don't.

2 pumps are enough to cover the face and neck. If you use too much, you're just wasting product—the skin can only absorb so much liquid at once.

Ready to update your routine?

Shop Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 Today

Disclaimer: Always patch test new active products. If you are using prescribed medication, consult your medical professional.