OpinionSeptember 10, 2021
Me, that’s who. Nothing brings me more joy than the launch of fall-scented body care products and candles. Maybe I never grew out of my middle school obsession with pumpkin, or possibly it’s that sweet, sweet rush of serotonin I feel whenever autumn drinks arrive at Starbucks...
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Graphic by Nicolette Baker

Me, that’s who.

Nothing brings me more joy than the launch of fall-scented body care products and candles. Maybe I never grew out of my middle school obsession with pumpkin, or possibly it’s that sweet, sweet rush of serotonin I feel whenever autumn drinks arrive at Starbucks.

Some people may call that “basic!” To quote the little kid from Vine: I don’t care about my haters, so if you wanna fight me, then fight me.

While we’re at it, we can chat about the term “basic” being used as a tool to diminish women’s interests. Soo, uhhh, basically, I’m just living my feminist life!

Of course, we’ve gotta start with Bath & Body Works, the cheugy queen of the pumpkin-scented industry (JK, still love ya!).

Their fall lineup includes Marshmallow Pumpkin Latte, Pumpkin Apple, Pumpkin Cupcake and Pumpkin Pecan Waffles. My personal fave is the sweet, vanilla-y latte scent of Marshmallow Pumpkin Latte; it has just the right amount of spice without being too much of a musk.

Self-care sessions on chilly fall nights call for an appropriate face mask. This resurfacing one by Bliss uses pumpkin puree to help your skin live its besttttt exfoliated life. It also features a super cute, on-theme autumnal orange color. If you didn’t take a million face mask selfies, did the face mask even happen?

If you’re really committed to the pumpkin lifestyle, swipe on this Pumpkin Spice Latte deodorant by Native. It’s a little too far for me, but live your life!

I’ve *recently* been informed autumn apple scents are on their way to dethrone pumpkin. Uhh, neverrrrrrr! If you are part of that crowd, though, I have some recommendations for you.

Lush is queen when it comes to yummy-smelling body care products. This Apple Crumble bubble bar delivers lots of fall goodness and alsoooo includes ingredients like cocoa butter to keep your skin soft. Word of warning, though: reviewers on the website caution it’s more of a fresh apple scent than Granny’s apple pie. Dang :(

This Beloved apple and cinnamon body wash does the trick, too! It’s created by the same folks who run Love Beauty Planet, so you know it’s gotta be good!

Bottom line: pick whichever fall scents make your heart happy this autumn — and maybe try something new! If you catch me smelling like a Starbucks latte, mind your business.

As always, catch me at @nbakerARROW on Twitter!

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