There's no specific age for a child to start wearing deodorant or antiperspirant. Many start in their teens. Some start as soon as puberty starts to cause body odor, which can be as early 8 or 9 years old for some children. Then again, some never use it, even as adults.
There is no "right" age for kids to start wearing deodorant. The choice ultimately comes down to each kid's unique body chemistry, development, and comfort level. Many kids start using deodorant around the same time that they start to have noticeable body odor.
There's no set age at which kids can start using deodorants or antiperspirants. When they do start, they should read and follow the directions.
“While the negative effects of the ingredients in antiperspirants haven't been proven, most pediatricians don't recommend antiperspirant use in pre-pubertal children,” she adds. In general, though, it's considered perfectly safe for young kids to use deodorant.
Dr. Swanson recommends that for children who want to start wearing deodorant early, you should opt for an aluminum-free choice. "I would not see any harm in a child who wants to use deodorant doing that at almost any age. I would, however, recommend using an aluminum-free option," she says.
There's no specific age for a child to start wearing deodorant or antiperspirant.
Deodorant and antiperspirant can help reduce odor, including odor caused by sweating in active kids. Children can use an unscented product if they are sensitive to fragrances or don't like the smell of scented deodorant.
Kopari Aluminum Free Coconut Deodorant
Marmon's personal recommendations for the best deodorants for kids. It's easy to apply and feels gentle going on, an important factor for newbies. This Kopari deodorant includes coconut oil and sage oil, without any aluminum, parabens and phthalates.
Adrenarche is usually normal in girls who are at least 8 years old, and boys who are at least 9 years old. Even when pubic and underarm hair appear in children younger than this, it is still usually nothing to worry about, but your child does need to see their pediatrician for an exam.
Body odor in children mostly occurs as a result of poor hygiene but there are cases where kids with good hygiene have a smell to their sweat. Body odor is normal in kids starting early puberty. Some genetic metabolic diseases, like trimethylaminuria (Fish Odor Syndrome), could also cause body odor in children.
Be proactive and respectful.
If your child is used to you being direct, simply telling them they need a shower and to use deodorant can do the trick. However, if your child is more sensitive or easily embarrassed, choose your words carefully.
Don't make it a big deal.
Try to make it seem like no big deal. Maybe find a way to emphasize that it's normal, like saying, “Before I started wearing deodorant, I had the same problem,” or “If I forget to shower for a couple days, the same thing happens to me.”
Managing without deodorant
“If you stop wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, you can develop a stronger odor over time,” Doyle said. “When you stop using (such products) and sweat more, this creates a breeding ground for bacterial and fungal overgrowth, which can cause odor to become stronger.”
If sweating is excessive, it can cause smelly armpits even if a person washes regularly and uses deodorant or antiperspirant.
Truly's Deodorant for Kids
Instead of a roll-on, this nontraditional coconut oil-based deodorant is applied using a finger. With only four ingredients, this is the most natural option among the tested products.
Deodorants are aluminum-free, and most are generally considered safe for children, says Dr. Zeichner. Of course, as with any personal care product, you should always touch base with your pediatrician.
SkinSAFE has reviewed the ingredients of Mitchum Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant for Women, Power Gel, Powder Fresh, 3.4 oz and found it to be 91% Top Allergen Free and free of Gluten, Coconut, Nickel, Top Common Allergy Causing Preservatives, Lanolin, Paraben, Topical Antibiotic, MCI/MI, Soy, Oil, Irritant/Acid, Dye, and ...
Frequently asked questions: Is Dove a safe deodorant? Dove's deodorants and antiperspirants are not safe or non toxic. Moreover, some of their products contain aluminum which is a big no-no.
We all know armpits stink, but we don't expect it until puberty. It's not actually uncommon for younger kids to have armpit smells. This smell is due to bacteria, sweat, and hormone changes. And as long as your child doesn't have any other signs of puberty, and they're under the age of eight, it's not a concern.
Your child's hormones are changing, which stimulates their glands and increases perspiration, especially in the underarm and groin areas. That increase in perspiration combines with the bacteria that live on the skin creating the odor. To be clear, we all have bacteria that live on our skin.
Tips to prevent body odor in kids :
If possible, they can take bath twice a day and use good body soap to clean their armpits, limbs, and genitals well. Children should wear clean clothes and shoes. In summer, they can wear light cotton clothes. Encourage your children to drink lots of water and stay hydrated.