Deodorant for kids is generally safe once body odor starts, dermatologists say
Dermatologists say kids can use gentle deodorant when body odor appears, often around ages 8 to 10, but formulas matter.
By Tom Brennan · Health & Medicine Correspondent
3 min read
Deodorant for kids is generally safe when body odor begins, two board-certified dermatologists told NBC Select, as more children start using odor-control products before their teen years. The shift matters for parents because younger skin can be more reactive, and deodorant is not the same as antiperspirant.
Dr. Kristina Collins, a board-certified dermatologist in Texas, told NBC Select that earlier deodorant use reflects children entering puberty sooner than in past generations. She said body odor can be an early sign that apocrine sweat glands, the glands in the armpits that produce oily sweat, have become active.
What age should kids start using deodorant?
There is no single age when every child should begin using deodorant, Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, told NBC Select. Jaliman said many children can start once odor becomes noticeable, commonly between ages 8 and 10.
Parents may notice the change after recess, sports, gym class or hot weather. Collins said a mild deodorant can be appropriate if odor is affecting a child’s comfort or confidence.
Dermatologists told NBC Select that deodorant is generally safe for children, including tweens. They cautioned that formulas with strong fragrance, high alcohol content or irritating additives may dry, sting or trigger reactions, especially in children with sensitive skin.
Collins also said “natural” ingredients are not automatically irritation-free. For children prone to skin sensitivity, both dermatologists recommended fragrance-free or lightly scented products and shorter ingredient lists.
Deodorant is different from antiperspirant
Deodorant reduces or masks odor. Antiperspirant reduces sweat, usually through aluminum-based compounds.
Collins told NBC Select that most children only need odor control, so deodorant is usually the better first option. She said antiperspirants are typically reserved for children whose sweating is excessive enough to interfere with daily life, and parents should discuss that with a pediatrician or dermatologist.
Which kids’ deodorants did NBC Select highlight?
NBC Select said it chose kids’ deodorants using dermatologist guidance, trusted brands and products with at least a four-star average rating from hundreds of shoppers. Its list focused on formulas marketed for younger or sensitive skin.
Tubby Todd Deo Stick: Listed at $15, the brand says it is gentle enough for children ages 6 and up. NBC Select reported that it is free of aluminum and baking soda and uses tapioca starch and magnesium hydroxide.
Level Up Boys Deodorant: Listed at $11.99 at Amazon and Walmart, it is marketed for young, sensitive skin and is free of aluminum, alcohol and parabens, according to NBC Select.
Evereden Kids Deodorant: Listed at $19, it is aluminum-free and made without baking soda or silicones, according to the brand. NBC Select reported that it contains vitamins E and B5 and is dermatologist-tested.
Hello Unicorn Deodorant: NBC Select listed the product at $12.55 on Amazon, down from $13.99. It is free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, dyes and baking soda, and contains shea butter.
Fresh Monster Kids Natural Deodorant: Listed at $12.99, the brand says it offers 24-hour odor protection and is free of aluminum, parabens and phthalates.
Dermatologists also told NBC Select that deodorant should go along with basic hygiene habits. Daily bathing, washing after sports or heavy activity, wearing clean clothes and choosing breathable fabrics can help limit odor by reducing sweat and bacteria on the skin.
This story draws on original reporting from NBC News.