If you’re in NYC today, the temperature is a sweltering 92 degrees. But in the midst of a heatwave, I can confidently say I smell amazing—and I haven’t worn so much as a spritz of perfume in weeks. How? I switched up my deodorant and body wash, and the new combination keeps my skin clean and dry with an intoxicating scent that lasts. These two have effectively replaced any need I have for perfume.
But enough vagueness. The products responsible for the exile of my perfume bottles to a box in the hallway closet are Salt & Stone’s Santal & Vetiver Deodorant ($20) and Nécessaire’s The Body Wash in Santal ($25). I tried both on a whim and was immediately sold on their luxuriously warm and musky, yet fresh, aromas.
Salt & Stone Santal & Vetiver Deodorant
Salt & Stone’s Santal and Vetiver is rich, woodsy and enticing, with notes that include Australian sandalwood, amber, cedar, violet leaves and vetiver. (The scent is also available in body washes, candles, hand wash and mist.) The deodorant isn’t technically an anti-perspirant, but I’m happy to report that a couple swipes leaves me dry, odor-free and unbothered (and that’s saying something in this heat)—sans harmful aluminums, parabens and phthalates. What’s more, its formula includes hyaluronic acid, probiotics and seaweed extract to keep skin moisturized. But the best part is the scent doesn’t fade. I routinely catch myself wondering what smells so good, until I realize it’s me.
Nécessaire The Body Wash in Santal
In real kismet, I was sent a bottle of Nécessaire’s recently-launched The Body Wash Santal around the same time. Nécessaire’s Santal also utilizes sandalwood, with notes of iris, black pepper and suede for a nearly identical warm and woodsy experience. (Our editor described Santal’s fragrance “softly sweet” and “plush” when it launched.) Like Salt & Stone’s deodorant, The Body Wash’s benefits go way beyond scent. Made with epsom salts and minerals magnesium, zinc and silica, it’s a therapeutic treatment that calms and restores depleted skin. Niacinamide and glycerin round out its formula to keep the skin barrier protected and deeply moisturized. My only complaint is the bottle isn’t big enough. My husband (who normally has zero opinions on body wash or products of any kind) now only uses The Body Wash Santal.
I’m not necessarily celebrating that I no longer wear perfume on a daily basis, but I have to admit, one less thing to think about doesn’t hurt. If you’re looking to streamline your routine, or are just looking for a phenomenal scent to linger on your skin all day (with added benefits!), I can’t recommend these Santal picks enough.
