Louis A. Yau

SŌMA is a natural deodorant brand inspired by the people and environment of British Columbia. With nearly seven out of ten adults in BC participating in outdoor activities each year, the goal was to design a product that aligns with the lifestyle and values of those who live actively.

The brief called for a product that reflected a strong sense of place—one that felt grounded and respectful of the land it comes from. The deodorant needed to be effective, while also using compostable packaging and locally sourced ingredients without compromising on quality.

Research into existing natural deodorant brands revealed a clear gap in the market. While many natural deodorants exist, most are still housed in plastic. Others used paper tubes, which felt more sustainable but didn’t reflect the level of quality the brand aimed to communicate.

SŌMA is housed in packaging made from biodegradable materials that incorporate natural clay minerals, offering a durable and compostable alternative to conventional plastic. Each product is finished with a wax seal that must be broken upon first use, serving as both a design detail and a marker of freshness and quality.

Each scent is inspired by a tree or plant native to BC. The dieline features a blind embossing of the plant it’s derived from, paired with short-form copy describing its properties and origins. The visual identity draws from the natural surroundings of the West Coast, using muted tones influenced by rock faces, foggy skies, and forest trails.

From packaging to messaging, every element was considered with care, resulting in a brand that feels grounded, intentional, and aligned with the values of the people it’s made for.