You may be surprised to know that body care products have always held only a passing interest for me. I’ve never been one to demonize foaming body washes or bar soap. To me, there is a time and place for everything, and the drugstore has alway provided ample options for the ‘essentials.’ For this reason, it’s taken me a while to embrace Nécessaire– a brand that initially won me over with their chic, minimalist aesthetic. That, and maybe because I was intrigued by the concept of ‘respecting my skin barrier?’
Over the past few years, I’ve tried quite a bit from Nécessaire. Their emails are just too enticing; the full-size GWP options, too good to pass up. Not surprisingly, I’ve been repurchasing quite a few items. And since many of you consistently ask about my favorites from the line, I thought I’d round up a handful that I truly enjoy. And I’ll share the reasons I have a lackluster response to one of them.
The Deodorant Gel
So much better than the solid deodorant Nécessaire launched prior, the Deodorant Gel now ranks in my Top 3. Unlike other gels that I’ve tried, this one is fast-drying, non-sticky, works like a dream at controlling odor, and keeps me dry. Without even a trace of aluminum or baking soda. Since the formula includes 5% AHA concentration (Mandelic and Lactic Acids) as well as Niacinamide, it also helps with hyperpigmentation issues. And if you shave, the addition of Glycerin and Chamomile Extract will comfort and soothe any potential irritation. I have a slight preference for the Eucalyptus scent over Sandalwood; it’s also available in a Fragrance-Free version, which just doesn’t do it for me. $15 (50ml)
The Hand Cream
I discovered this one via a full-size GWP, which arrived free with my recent order. Not only was I not expecting to enjoy an unscented hand cream, I never could have predicted how much I’m absolutely loving it. The creamy texture absorbs quickly and leaves my dry hands feeling soft and supple in minutes. Love the metal tube packaging. This is my short and sweet review. If you’re looking for a hand cream, you will not be disappointed. $20 (65ml)
The Body Wash
My gateway into the brand, this continues to be an on-again-off-again constant in our shower. I love how gentle it is and while it doesn’t lather like crazy, it leaves my skin properly cleansed and feeling refreshed. For anyone struggling with body skin dryness, this gel body wash is sulfate-free. One wish: that the fragrance was just a tiny bit more pronounced. Bergamot is a favorite but the aroma is just too subtle. It’s also available in Sandalwood, Eucalyptus, and Fragrance-Free. The ingredients are fantastic and include Glycerin, Niacinamide, Apple Fruit Extract as well as Marula and Meadowfoam Seed Oils. $25 (250ml)
The Body Oil
Typically, I’m partial to scented body oils, so I feel like I’ve gone slightly rogue with the fragrance-free Nécessaire formula. This absolutely gorgeous blend of Sweet Almond, Tamanu, Hazelnut, Macadamia, and Marula Oils is rich and velvety without feeling the slightest bit heavy or greasy. I’ve been adding a couple of dropperfuls into a running bath before a soak or mixing a few drops with my favorite body lotion to boost its antioxidant properties. Extra star for the eye-pleasing packaging. $40 (100ml)
The Body Exfoliator
Love it. Which is a bit surprising because I usually prefer coarse/gritty body scrubs. This gentle, yet effective formula, uses physical and chemical exfoliants to buff away dead skin and stimulate circulation– something all of us should indulge in 1-2 times a week. Tiny particles of Volcanic Pumice and Bamboo Charcoal are suspended in a silky gel, which is infused with a skin smoothing blend of Alpha, Beta, and Polyhydroxy Acids. It generates a soft lather when applied to damp skin and rinses off very clean. My tip: massage a bit of product on dry elbows before stepping into the shower which really helps with the dry, ashy appearance. The tube packaging is much appreciated. I’m a fan of the Bergamot scent. Shocker. $30 (180ml)
The Body Serum
Not quite a miss for me but ‘the necessary’ steps of body care do not require a separate serum, lotion, and oil. These come after washing and exfoliating. But maybe I’m in the minority? This slightly milky gel formula sinks into the skin almost instantly, and is totally non-tacky but… it is only available in Fragrance Free. If it came in Bergamot, I’d be stockpiling it for the summer for the scent alone. It delivers ample hydration (it contains Hyaluronic Acid in 5 varying molecular weights) but it’s just not a product I reach for regularly. $45 (150ml)
The Body Lotion
If you can find joy in using an unscented body lotion, you will love the Nécessaire formula. Of all the post-shower body care options available, this is one I’ve used the most and used up the fastest (hence no photo as I’m out at the moment). The lotion has a smooth, creamy texture that glides on the skin beautifully and absorbs in less than a minute. Major props for a thoughtful ingredient deck, which highlights Peptides, Glycerin, Niacinamide, and Marula Oil. Sadly for me, this one is only available in Fragrance-Free. $28 (200ml)
Explore the entire collection, which also includes neck serum, scalp serum, two body cleansing bars, sunscreen, and body cream at necessaire.com or thedetoxmarket.com.
