I wasn’t expecting to find a fragrance dupe in the deodorant aisle at Boots. Yet here I am, about to wax lyrical about the Gem Skin-Loving Santal Antiperspirant Deodorant, £4. I'd seen the hype on TikTok, but I was still skeptical. How good could a £4 deodorant really be? The moment I spritzed, however, the familiar scent hit me - it was creamy and musky, with a subtle woody edge. It instantly reminded me of Santal Austral by Matiere Premiere, £165 which is one of the best perfumes I’ve ever used. I’ve worn Austral for months now - it’s raw, elegant, and long-lasting – and the fact that this deodorant so closely captures that vibe felt like a secret win. It's also incredibly similar to Le Labo’s Santal 33, £168, nailing that distinctive sandalwood scent that manages to be both sophisticated and quietly addictive.
The best part? I've had multiple people stop me in the street to ask what perfume I’m wearing when I've only misted the deodorant, it's that impressive. And while scent is important, protection is key when it comes to a great anti-perspirant. Gem promises 48-hour sweat and odour protection - and while I’m yet to test this specific claim (and sorry but I won't be doing so during a heatwave) I can attest to the fact that it stands strong after a full sweaty office day. I smell good and feel fresh.
And just a moment, if you will allow it, for the texture; it's joyous to apply, leaving behind no residue or irritation. It's enriched with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and vitamin E, to sooth and hydrate sensitive underarm skin - a rarity where fragranced deodorants are concerned. Would recommend.
Shop: Gem Skin-Loving Santal Antiperspirant Deodorant
www.boots.com
What the brand says: ‘Our skin-loving formulation is enriched with premium ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter and Vitamin E. We’re super gentle on skin, but tough on sweat, so you can feel fresh, dry and primed to make everyday amazing.’
What we know: Let’s talk ingredients: This isn’t just your average deo. The formula blends hyaluronic acid to hydrate and retain moisture, shea butter to soften and vitamin E to soothe sensitive skin. It’s also alcohol-free and doesn’t leave that powdery or sticky finish you get from traditional deodorants.
Renee Washington, digital fashion and beauty writer says, ‘For just £4, Gem nails the rich, sandalwood vibe of my go-to perfume and keeps me fresh all day. On days I forget my actual scent, this deodorant’s got my back - people still think I’m wearing something luxe.’
Pros
- Smells amazing
- Lasts long
- Gentle on the skin
Cons
- Goes whites if apply too much
While Santal is the cult favourite scent, Gem also offer other standout fragrances: Cool Fresh, a crisp, scent perfect for everyday wear; Vanilla Coconut, a creamy, comforting tropical blend; and Vanilla Macadamia, which combines warm vanilla with nutty undertones perfect for lovers of vanilla perfumes. These scents make Gem deodorants perfect for anyone wanting a beautifully scented, clean formula all year round. This is an affordable upgrade your beauty arsenal deserves.
Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..