The Great Unlock: How to Stack Your Routine for Maximum Results

QUICK SUMMARY: THE "NEED TO KNOW"

• The Concept: "Skin Stacking" isn't just about adding more products; it's about increasing bio-availability (absorption).

• The Missing Step: The new Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 acts as a "Bio-Active Primer" that sits between cleansing and treating.

• The Benefit: It clears dead skin cells (Enzymes) and signals repair (Exosomes), making your follow-up serums work harder.

• Key Stacks:

  • For Lift: Stack with Dermalogica Phyto Nature Firming Serum.

  • For Hydration: Stack with Dermalogica Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream.

  • For Retinol: Use as a buffer to prevent flaking.

If there is one question that floods my DMs more than any other, it is this: "Sarah, what order do I put these on?"

We are living in the age of the "Skintellectual." You likely have a shelf full of actives including Vitamin C, Retinol, Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid. But often, clients tell me they aren't seeing the results they're hoping for.

The problem is usually not the product; it is the absorption. If your skin has a "static" layer of dead cells or a compromised barrier, those expensive serums are simply sitting on the surface.

This is why I am calling the new Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 "The Great Unlock." It is designed to be the ultimate team player, the product that makes everything else in your routine work better.

Is it a toner? Is it a serum?

Technically, it is a Regenerating Liquid Moisturiser. But I like to think of it as a Bio-Active Primer.

It sits in the "Prep" stage of your routine, right after cleansing but before your traditional serum. Its job is to prepare the canvas so your treatment steps can penetrate deeper and work faster.

Here are the three specific "Stacks" or protocols I am prescribing in the clinic to target specific skin concerns.

1. The 'Menopause Stack' (For Lift and Bounce)

The Concern: Loss of collagen, sagging, and lack of structural density due to estrogen depletion.

The Stack:

1. Unlock: Apply Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2. The Acacia Senegal Gum creates an immediate physical lifting mesh on the skin surface.

2. Lift: Follow immediately with Dermalogica Phyto Nature Firming Serum. While E2 works on the surface lift and signal, the serum’s peptides work on the deeper structural integrity⁶⁶.

3. The Result: A "Double Lift" effect—immediate tightening from the primer, and long-term firming from the serum.

2. The 'Moisture Sandwich' (For Dryness) 

The Concern: Skin that feels tight or "eats up" moisturiser and feels dry again by noon.

The Stack:

1. Drench: Apply Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 to damp skin. The Pumpkin Enzymes ensure there are no dead cells blocking absorption.

2. Flood: While skin is still tacky, apply Dermalogica Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream.

3. The Result: The E2 acts as a hydration magnet, pulling the oxygenating actives of the cream deeper into the tissue. 

3. The 'Retinol Buffer' (For Sensitivity) 

The Concern: You want to use Retinol for anti-ageing, but you hate the flaking, peeling, and redness.

The Stack:

1. Buffer: Apply Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 first. The Turmeric Exosomes deliver lipids to strengthen the barrier and calm inflammation.

2. Treat: Apply your Retinol serum or cream over the top.

3. The Result: The enzymes in E2 gently sweep away any retinol-induced flakes the next morning, while the exosomes soothe the barrier, allowing you to tolerate active retinol with zero downtime.

Because this is a liquid moisturiser, you don't want to swipe it away with a cotton pad (which wastes product).

Sarah’s Ritual:

1. Dispense 1-2 pumps into the palm of your hand.

2. Rub hands together to warm the actives.

3. Press onto the face, neck, and décolletage.

4. Take a deep breath. The sensory experience is designed to lower cortisol levels.

5. Wait 15 seconds for the "Flash Firming" sensation to set before applying your next step.

Can I use this with Vitamin C?

Yes. In fact, it is highly recommended. By using Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 first, you remove the dull surface cells that block light. When you apply Vitamin C on top, it penetrates better and reflects light more effectively for maximum brightness.

Do I use this AM or PM?

You can use it both times, but if you are choosing one, I recommend AM use. The "Flash Firming" effect of the Acacia Gum gives you an immediate lift and smooth canvas for makeup, while the antioxidants protect you from daily stress.

Does it replace my essence?

Yes. It functions as a high-performance essence, toner, and light moisturiser in one. It streamlines your routine without compromising on results.

Ready to unlock your routine?

Shop the new Dermalogica Phyto Nature E2 and create your perfect stack.