Deodorant Use for Children and Teenagers
Body odor is typically a sign of adolescence for children. At the time puberty begins and hormones shift, children begin to smell.
This typically occurs between the ages of 8 and 13 for females and 9 to 14 for males. Puberty might, however, can begin earlier or later than usual.
Body odor can be reduced by taking a daily shower, particularly after perspiring heavily or in warm weather.
Wearing fresh socks, pants, and clothing every day can also help. Yet many parents also ponder the question of when children should begin wearing deodorant.
What Kinds of Deodorants Are There?
Two categories of products can aid in reducing body odor:
- Body odor is hidden by deodorants, which typically contain perfumes.
- Antiperspirants reduce or stop sweating or perspiration. They accomplish this by momentarily closing the sweat-producing pores.
- Deodorants, antiperspirants, and combination products are available in a variety of retailers and come as sticks, roll-ons, gels, sprays, and creams.
When Can Children Use Deodorant?
Children can begin using deodorants and antiperspirants at any age. When they do begin, they ought to read and abide by the instructions.
Until they are mature enough to utilize spray (aerosol) products securely without spraying them in their faces or inhaling them, younger children should use a stick, roll-on, or cream product rather than a spray alternative.
Which Deodorant Is Best for Children?
Deodorant may be beneficial for young children. Later in adolescence, sweating rises, so switching to a solution that controls both odor and perspiration might be beneficial.
Children can safely use deodorants and antiperspirants. The essential chemicals are the same, but some feature packaging or smells that are meant to appeal to young users.
Despite being marketed as “natural,” some are no healthier than conventional alternatives. Choose a method that both you and your child find comfortable.
Pick a product that feels cozy and performs effectively to assist your child or teen with body odor. To make sure it doesn’t bother your child’s skin, keep an eye out for a rash.
A different product should be used if a rash appears. One product’s aroma may be preferred by your child over another’s or even an unscented one. Finding the ideal one could require a few tries.
How to Use Deodorant Properly
An antiperspirant or deodorant needs to be applied properly for it to work. While some antiperspirants work best when applied at night, others advise applying them in the morning.
Antiperspirants are often applied under the arms, although if the hands or feet are particularly sweaty, some can be applied there as well. So that you know how to use it, read the label.
When Should I Contact a Physician?
Some children experience body odor before the typical puberty age. If your child has body odor and is under the age of 7 or 8 (for a girl) or 9 years, consult a doctor (for a boy).
The doctor can look for early signs of puberty, which occasionally require medication treatment. Unless there are indications of early puberty, body odor is typically not a medical issue.
But, if your child feels self-conscious or is concerned about perspiration or body odor, your doctor can reassure them.
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