For some time now, your child has been sweating excessively and it bothers him? Do not panic, this phenomenon is perfectly normal and will stabilize over time. But, from when can we offer him to put on deodorant? We check in with a pediatrician.
At the time of puberty, children undergo a profound hormonal upheaval. The hair grows and the activity of the sweat glands intensifies, producing a much more fragrant sweat. As a result, pre-teens may feel embarrassed. But, From what age can you suggest your child wear deodorant? What are the precautions to take to choose it well? Answers and advice from Dr Jérôme Valleteau de Moulliac, pediatrician.
At what age can a teenager wear deodorant?
In girls, puberty occurs between the ages of 8 and 14, and between 9 and 14 in boys. “It is possible to apply deodorant from the age when young boys and girls begin to have invasive or embarrassing odors for them and those around them. In general, it is when puberty begins, when the sweat produced by the apocrine glands mixes with the bacteria of the skin that arise odorous secretions“, says Dr Jérôme Valleteau de Moulliac.
“It is possible to apply deodorant from the age when young boys and girls begin to have invasive or embarrassing odors for them and for those around them”.
Tips for masking odors in adolescence
- In addition to the deodorant, it is important to wash the armpits well with soap and to dry the area well to avoid maceration.
- Wearing synthetic materials in contact with the armpits should be avoided, because it is an additional factor of maceration and perspiration.
- It is also recommended to avoid foods that cause sweating, advises the pediatrician.
Which deodorant should be favored for a teenager?
There are deodorants specially designed for pre-teens and teenagers. These products do not contain alcohol, perfume, or allergenic or irritating substances for the skin of children, which is more fragile than that of adults. “In particular, it is important to avoid aluminum salts and parabens which are considered endocrine disruptors. They also target the bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors at this specific time of life. The smell is also sweet and pleasant for children“, develops the pediatrician. Deodorants for children generally come in the form of a ball, more rarely in a spray.
“It is important to avoid aluminum salts and parabens which are considered endocrine disruptors”.
First deodorants for girls and boys: which one to choose?
Children’s deodorants are generally not gendered. The formulations are neutral and can be used by both girls and boys. The Toofruit brand, for example, offers natural and certified organic deodorants, specially designed for children. Here are some deodorants that are suitable for teens:
- My first deodorant – Toofruit (10.50 euros). Grapefruit-mint and apple-aloe vera aromas.
- My first care deodorant with organic lavender honey – Alvadiem (9.80€)
- head to toto – The deodorant for sensitive skin from 10 years old – Poupina (6.90€)
Thanks to Dr Jérôme Valleteau de Moulliac, pediatrician.