DOVE x Crumbl deodorant review: EHHH…

I've seen the buzz about the Dove x Crumbl deodorants all over, and honestly, I was so curious! As someone who loves a good 'gourmand' scent – you know, those delicious food-inspired fragrances – I had to get my hands on these limited-edition sticks. My previous experience with Dove's Fall '24 yummy scents left me wishing I'd stocked up, so I went into this hoping for a similar, strong aroma experience. Especially seeing those gorgeous pink tubes with the cookie images for Strawberry Crumb Cake, Confetti Cake, and Lemon Glaze, my expectations were pretty high for a sweet treat for my underarms. When it comes to gourmand deodorants, I'm looking for something that truly delivers on its promise. I want to smell like I've just baked a fresh batch of cookies, not just had a faint whiff from the kitchen next door! My biggest takeaway from the initial tries was the 'weak' scent, and I think many of us who seek out these special editions are hoping for a real fragrance punch. For instance, with the Strawberry Crumb Cake, I pictured a rich, juicy strawberry jam mixed with buttery cake crumbs. Instead, it was a subtle, almost shy strawberry, which was a bit of a letdown for my strong scent preference. The Confetti Cake, with its promise of sprinkles and celebration, did a better job, but that curious 'after smell' is something to consider. However, the Lemon Glaze truly shined, capturing that tangy, sweet essence of a lemon pound cake, just like the beautiful cookie depicted on its packaging. It makes me wonder if certain 'food' notes translate better into deodorant form than others. Another interesting aspect I noticed, and one that sets these apart from classic Dove, is the 'solid gel' texture. Most Dove deodorants I've used are that familiar white, creamy solid. This solid gel felt different on application. While it glides on smoothly, I wonder if this texture contributes to the milder scent throw. Sometimes, creamier formulas feel like they 'hold' fragrance better. It's certainly less noticeable on skin and clothes than a white solid, which is a plus for avoiding marks, but for those craving a strong scent, it might be a trade-off. Does a solid gel inherently release less fragrance? The original review mentioned wondering if these could 'hold 72 hours worth.' This is crucial for any deodorant, especially one you might pay a few dollars extra for due to its novelty. While I didn't explicitly test the full 72 hours, I did pay close attention to how these performed throughout a typical busy day. For light activity, they held up decently, but for more strenuous days, or if you naturally sweat more, I found myself wishing for a stronger, more reliable protection. The delicious scents, however faint, did linger for a good few hours initially, but the primary function of odor protection is paramount. If you're someone who needs maximum strength, you might want to layer with a more robust antiperspirant or reapply. At $6-7 each, these are a bit pricier than your standard deodorant, but for a limited-edition collaboration with a cult-favorite like Crumbl, it's not exorbitant. The value really comes down to what you prioritize: novelty and a unique gourmand experience, or maximum scent throw and protection. For collectors of special beauty items or Crumbl fans, they're a fun treat. However, if strong scent and long-lasting protection are your top priorities, Dove does offer other excellent options that might better suit those needs. The allure of 'limited edition' often drives purchases, and for those who love the aesthetic and the idea of these unique scents, they could be a delightful indulgence. If you're like me and adore gourmand scents, here are a few tips. First, manage your expectations for scent strength in deodorants; it's often more subtle than perfumes. Second, consider layering! If you love the Lemon Glaze scent, pairing it with a lemon-scented body lotion or spray can amplify the experience. Also, don't be afraid to read reviews specifically mentioning scent throw. And finally, if a scent like Strawberry Crumb Cake feels too weak, try looking for other brands that specialize in stronger, more robust fragrance profiles in their body care. Sometimes, you have to experiment to find your perfect sweet spot! Overall, the Dove x Crumbl deodorants are a delightful concept, beautifully packaged with those inviting cookie visuals. They offer a fun, unique take on daily self-care. While I found the Lemon Glaze to be the clear winner in terms of scent strength and accuracy, and the Confetti Cake a close second despite its quirk, the collection as a whole felt a little understated on the fragrance front. They are a charming novelty, a pleasant addition to a beauty routine if you prioritize unique scents over intense performance. Just don't go in expecting a bakery explosion under your arms, and you might just enjoy these sweet treats!