It’s not very often I’m bowled over by beauty basics. Toothpaste, deodorants, razors... the things you mindlessly buy when you run out and aren’t in the habit of changing up. Unless I’m testing something for work, I normally reach for the same things time and time again, but a recent beauty desk drop made me stop in my tracks – the new Gem deodorants, specifically the Santal scent. They're deliciously dreamy and totally worth switching my habitual spending for.
Now, I had only previously known Gem, the Australian beauty brand, for their chic dental care range (the packaging gives Glossier vibes), but more recently, they've launched a range of beautifully scented deodorants that allow you to extend your fragrance layering to your underarms. And best of all? They're not only stocked in Boots, but now, in over 350 Marks and Spencer stores, too!
TikTok has been hailing the scents as designer fragrance dupes in a snip, and I can’t disagree. The Santal scent is so similar to the notes in Le Labo Santal 33 vibes, but in a deo format, thanks to its earthy, woody sandalwood notes. But beyond that, the formula is really skin-loving; it doesn’t sting (0% alcohol is involved in the ‘greds) and contains hyaluronic acid, shea butter and vitamin E to keep your pit skin soft and hydrated while smelling good. Also, if sandalwood isn’t your thing, you can pick from Coconut Vanilla, Vanilla Macadamia and Cool Fresh (lemon and cedarwood). Honestly, the whole lineup smells so good.
I have a real love-hate relationship with ‘natural deodorant’; there are some that work for me (AKT if you must know), but many others that leave me a fusty, sweaty mess by the end of the day, so I always proceed with trepidation when I recommend one. This deodorant sits somewhere in between traditional antiperspirant and natural deodorant. It’s less harsh on the skin and has a way better scent profile than most traditional ones, but still has the sturdy anti-perspirant ingredients to keep sweat at bay in the warmer months – trust me, I trialled this during the recent heat wave on steaming hot tubes, buses and national rail services.
What really sets this apart from the other deos is that you get to start your scent layering process from body care with this launch. I often find that I’m good with blending all my fave notes for my body wash, lotion and then fragrances, but then find that my deodorant is a random mix of florals because that's all that's on offer with effective deodorant brands, and they smell good but not in line with my perfume vibes. So, while stocks last, I will be lining my cupboards with these.
Keeks Reid is the Beauty Director at Cosmopolitan UK. While she loves all things beauty, Keeks is a hair fanatic through and through. She started her career in beauty journalism in 2013 as editorial assistant at Blackhair and Hair magazines working her way to Acting Editor of Blackhair magazine at 23 years old. She spent much of her career working in trade hairdressing media at Hairdressers Journal, Salon International and the British Hairdressing Awards. Which is why she is a regular contributor to Cosmo's Curl Up franchise. Now, alongside her Cosmo work, she presents, creates content on social media and works with a range of beauty companies; from magazines and websites to beauty brands and salons.
