Navigating the intimidating maze of beauty counters can be a little daunting these days. Glamorous packaging, bold claims and technology’s latest multi-tasking products, can sometimes come together to create a case for those ‘can’t live without’-type purchases that once home, a real case of buyer’s remorse kicks in. I’ve been there more often that I’d like to admit, buying some unnecessary product only to be left disappointed and vowing never to waste my money like that ever again.
But it is that very same excitement that can sometimes also lead to the discovery of star products, those foolproof multitaskers that really make a noticeable difference in your life, the real ‘can’t live without’-type products. One such discovery has been the Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil, an innovative next-generation oil formula that takes a three-phase approach to heal, nourish and protect the skin.
Expert Skincare
Now the brand, Dermalogica, needs no introduction. They are skincare pioneers that have worked hard for their uncontestable reputation. Their iconic products are sold worldwide and used in exquisite posh salons and spas with long waiting lists. Their customers include celebrities with armies of beauty experts in tow, as well as skincare addicts, like myself, who devote a lot of time to researching and learning about all things beauty. The Phyto Replenish Oil is the newest addition to the Dermalogica family having just been launched at the beginning of September, such a unique and potent formula that I can’t wait to tell you more about.
Indulging Your Skin
Beautiful skin is not about products with magic ingredients and instant results. It begins with a basic skincare routine that preps, nourishes and hydrates your skin. It’s the continued care offered by your skincare products that makes all the difference.
Oils for me are an essential within my beauty cabinet. They are the type of product that once you get, it becomes a bare necessity to any every day skincare routine. And I have to pat myself on the back and proudly say that over the past few years, I’ve got it. Gone are the days when I thought oil was my enemy and opted for anything and everything that would dry up my skin. I believe in the nourishing, healing and stress-relieving properties of face oils and dedicated an entire post to their benefits here.
There are of course many different kinds of oils and not every oil out there is suitable for every skin tone. The Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil is a feather-light oil ideal for daily use on normal to dry skin. That is not to say that sensitive or oilier complexions cannot use it. But when it comes to oils in general, you need to actually listen to your skin and provide it with what it needs. I have sensitive, fussy skin that tends to be combination in the summer and drier during colder months. There are certain essential oils that I cannot use as my skin flares up right away and over the years, it’s been a lot of trial and error trying to sort out which oils work for me and which don’t. The key, as with everything else in life, is not giving up.
How it Works
The Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil takes a three-phase approach to strengthen, hydrate and shield the skin. It works to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier and replenish the skin with protective lipids that are depleted by aging and environmental stress. During the first phase, phytoactives from Camellia and Tamanu oils help restore the skin’s natural barrier. Then an essential lipid blend that includes Orchid Flower and Chia Seed Oil work to diminish the appearance of visible lines and lock in moisture. Finally, Sunflower, Rice Bran and Rosemary Extracts create a luminous antioxidant shield to protect against free radicals.
The oil is formulated without artificial fragrances, colors or parabens.
Complete List of Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Cymbidium Grandiflorum (Orchid) Flower Extract, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Methoxyphenyl T-Butylphenyl Propanediol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool, Citral, Limonene.
How to Use
Now I use oils, the ones that work for me, a lot of different ways and you can read more about it here. One of the easiest and most effective ways is to incorporate them in your nighttime skincare routine. They can be used as separate component of the routine or mixed in with your moisturizer. I have used the Phyto Replenish Oil for almost a month now on a daily basis. After cleansing and toning my skin, on most nights I follow the same true and tried regimen:
- Apply a Retinol or serum product (such as the Kate Somerville Retashpere Micro Peel or the Algenist Power Wrinkle Fighter Peptide Serum)
- Follow with a moisturizer. Here is where I typically like to rotate a few different ones such as the Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Wrinkle Cream, Sunday Riley Tidal, Kate Somerville Goat Milk (reviewed here) or the Guerlain Orchidee Imperiale Cream (reviewed here)
- Finish off with an oil and I’m currently using the Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil, 4-6 drops massaged onto the skin with the use of a Jade Roller (read how here)
In general, I prefer to add the oil, even the lightest of oils, at the end of my routine to seal everything in, as typically oils tend to penetrate thru the layer of moisturizer and not the other way around. You can use an oil prior to moisturizing but will have to add a facial mist to help the moisturizer penetrate the oil (will touch more on this during a post coming to the blog soon).
Final Thoughts
I think the title of this post gives it away from the beginning. I can’t imagine not using an oil in my skincare routine. It’s by far my favorite moment, at the end of a busy day, when I switch off and indulge my skin with lush and luxurious products, such as the Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil. This oil is the perfect companion for every day use or on those nights where you feel the need to have a little moment to yourself, a little pampering session that allows you to recharge and keep going.
Dermalogica have very kindly offered Cat’s Daily Living readers a chance to try ANY of their products for 20% off thru September 30, 2016. Use coupon code DailyCat20 at checkout for 20% off ANY PURCHASE on Dermalogica’s site.
This is NOT a sponsored post but it does contain referral links. Read my Disclaimer policy for more info.
Carmen says
Such a detailed review and beautiful photos! I am interested in a light oil suitable for my sensitive skin especially for the colder months. This oil sounds like something I would like. Will use the coupon code. Thank you for sharing.
Cat says
Thank you so much, Carmen! I definitely recommend the oil and the coupon code definitely comes in handy. Hope you enjoy this oils as much as I have, if you get a chance to try it. ~ Cat L.
Kristen Melissa says
You look gorgeous ! I am just getting more into oils myself . And I have to say I really am enjoying them too 🙂 I will have to try dermalogica soon . Great review Cat ! Your skin sounds like it is at times very similar to my own .
Cat says
Hi Kristen, thank you for stopping by and for your kind sweet words. I can not say enough about the use of oils, although as I also mention in the post, there are different kinds of oils and not every single one of them will work for every one. I definitely recommend the Dermalogica oil as it’s light and fast absorbent, full of good ingredients for the skin. Do keep me posted and let me know if you get a chance to try it. ~ Cat L.
Regina says
Reading your blog is equivalent to me spending 20 minutes in Savasana. I find it revitalizing with your in-depth perspectives yet tranquil with your gorgeous photography. Thank you for the awesome review and generous coupon code. ❤️
Cat says
Regina, I do not know what I did well in this life to deserve your friendship, support and such kind caring comments! Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart! My words are few but my heart is filled with immense gratitude.
I try to turn every product review into a lifestyle post, as I understand that we are more than just the products we use. Thank you again for reading. You are a skincare expert by training and my go to in terms of all skin related issues. I am an avid reader of your blog http://www.SkincareReginaVenti.com as I always learn something new from you. Thank you again for your support! ~ Cat L.
Hannah says
Hi Cat!! Since you posted early in my following you about using a rose oil, I’ve been intrigued about how these work…. Emma and I recently paid a visit to Space.NK and I purchased a rose oil that I now use as my bedtime routine and I really have noticed a difference….it would be difficult to say how but I know my skin is different! I’m using ByTerry Ultimate Regenerating Oil Serum which is rose based. Not only is the smell amazing the texture is too!! Now having read this I want to try this too!! Your reviews are always so so informative!! Thank you Cat!! You look beautiful as ever ?
Cat says
Hi Hannah, thank you for stopping by and reading my post. You have been one of my first friends on Instagram and your support means more than you know. So glad you enjoyed the review, thank you for such kind comments. The By Terry oil sounds so lovely and I’m glad it’s been working for you. Most of the times with skincare, it’s not about instant results but using products that work for you and staying consistent. I love love anything rose scented or related, so I need to check out the By Terry oil you mention. If you get a chance to try the Dermalogica Phyto Replenish, I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Wishing you a great rest of the week! ~ Cat L.
Daphne says
I just learned something new from you today and I want to thank you for sharing your oil application method. This evening I will use oil on top of moisturizer and notice the difference. Stay gorgeous!
Cat says
Hi Daphne, thank you for stopping by and for your comment. So glad you found the post helpful. Oils are typically heavier than moisturizers thus they penetrate a lot easier if applied on top of a moisturizer and not the other way around. But of course that is not to say you can’t apply the oil first. I do plan a post solely on this topic as I think a lot of people would find it useful. Love watching your videos on YouTube and I can now proudly say I’m all caught up! 🙂 Hope you have an amazing time on vacation! ~ Cat L.
Naya says
This oil is now officially on my wishlist! You look gorgeous, Cat xx
Cat says
Hi Naya, thank you for stopping by. I have to say that you’ve been my no. 1 Becca enabler since I discovered your blog http://www.partyparrotblog.com a few months ago! So it definitely goes both ways! 🙂 🙂 🙂
I can not say enough about the use of oils, although as I also mention in the post, there are different kinds of oils and not every single one of them will work for every one. I definitely recommend the Dermalogica oil as it’s light and fast absorbent, full of good ingredients for the skin. Do keep me posted and let me know if you get a chance to try it. ~ Cat L.
Nina A says
So Cat I recently started incorporating oils into my nightly skin routine all because of your post and I feel I’m noticing a difference but today I noticed I was doing something wrong when reading your post , I usually either put my oil on before my moisturizer or mix them together . I’ve learned now that the oil should go last to lock everything in , thank you for always being so detailed and informative . Also thanks for the 20% off coupon , this is definitely an great incentive to try this oil out! Btw beautiful pics !!
Cat says
Hi Nina, thank you so much for checking out my post. Skincare is definitely a lot of trial and error in order to find those foolproof products that work for you and even then, you have to listen to your skin’s needs as they vary depending on hormones, seasons, etc. You can definitely mix oils in with your moisturizer or even use the oils before your moisturizer. If you opt to use an oil before, I would suggest using a facial mist after applying the oils and prior to applying your moisturizer. Will have more on this on an upcoming post, so stay tuned. 🙂 ~ Cat L.
Nina A says
Oh great ! Looking forward to it ?
Anxhela says
Thank you for a very informative, detailed and educational post. I, as well, have definitely warmed up on facial oil usage and am confident to say that I definitely and always be using them from this point forward and never stir away from them again. This product definitely sounds like a gem & will be on my list.
p.s. I did read the post from start to finish, but, oh boy, your beauty is mesmerizing ? ?
Cat says
Anxhela, thank you so much for such blush worthy compliments. You are too kind! Thank you for stopping by and reading my post from start to finish 🙂 Glad you found it informative as that is always my mission, to share with everyone. The Dermalogica Phyto Replenish oil is a beautiful, light, fast absorbing oil that I think you would really like. Definitely ask for a sample next time you find yourself at Ulta! ~ Cat L.
Kelly S says
You look absolutely radiantly gorgeous!!! Your skin looks amazing Cat and you can really see that you have a brilliant skin care routine in place as you are flawless. Your images are fantastic and love the action shots! Dermalogica really takes me back as it was my first ‘higher end’ skincare brand that I used aged 16 thanks to my mum ensuring I had good products. (Thanks mum!)
I also have realised I really want to snoop around your bedroom as your furnishings are so lovely. Another great review and read! K xxx
http://www.KELLiLASH.com
Cat says
Oh Kelly you are always too kind and sweet! Thank you so much for such lovely compliments! You made my day! Glad you enjoyed the post. I know you’re also a fan of oils (great minds again 🙂 ) and if you get a chance, I definitely recommend this new Dermalogica Phyto Replenish oil. I think you would enjoy it as much as I have! Wishing you a lovely rest of the week! ~ Cat L.
Mar Preisler says
Cat, thank you very much for this detailed review about Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil. I love face oils and already bought Rosalena one, so will keep this one in mind for very near future.
I love you pictures and also how you explained your skincare routine.
Thank you very much and it’s a pleasure to read you.
Mar
Cat says
Dear Mar, thank you so much as always for being so kind and supportive! I think you will fall in love with the Rosalena oils, these amazing 100% natural oils, truly food for the skin. Do keep me posted and hope you enjoy them as much as I have! ~ Cat L.
JCJacobsOfficial says
This month I’m so fixation on oils (body and face), balms and serum. I don’t know I will be without it. What a lovely review on Dermatologica.
Cat says
Thank you! I love face and body oils, especially as we’re heading into Fall and Winter. I like that the Dermalogica Phyto Replenish is light and fast absorbent, definitely a must try! ~ Cat L.
Face to Curls says
I love facial oil and uses one every single night as part of my skincare routine and this one sounds so lovely. I have added to my wishlist!
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
Cat says
Hi Ann-Marie, thank you for stopping by. This is one of my favorite face oils as it’s packed with good nutrients for the skin, it’s light and fast absorbent! Hope you enjoy this as much as I have, if you get a chance to try it. ~ Cat L.