One of the first signs of puberty is likely to be new body odor. This is perfectly normal. Every child will have some body odor as puberty begins. This often starts as early as age 8 or 9.
Pre-teens and teens have body odor from increased apocrine gland sweating. This means that oil along with sweat now comes out of these sweat glands. Then, bacteria that live on the skin use those oils and release extra smells. Also, any place on a child’s body that is growing hair is more likely to hold odor.
Don’t forget the soap
It is important to clean with soap and water. This helps wash away odor-causing bacteria, oil and sweat. Focus especially on the armpits, feet and groin, washing them with soap and water. And, scalps also sweat, so do not forget about shampoo.
Shower regularly
It is typically recommended to shower daily or every other day once body odor has been noticed. Kids may especially need daily showers if they are very active or in sports. If they have eczema or other skin conditions, that might affect specific soap or showering recommendations.
Use deodorant, with or without antiperspirant
Stick or spray-on deodorant often comes with antiperspirant ingredients in it, such as aluminum salts. These help decrease the amount of sweat coming out of the glands and prevent odors. The deodorant part helps cover or hide smells using baking soda, alcohols or fragrances.
Consider fragrance- or aluminum-free options for sensitive skin.
Some people get skin irritation from fragrances, perfumes or from antiperspirant ingredients. Deodorants may have labels that say “fragrance-free, “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin.” There are many “aluminum-free” options nowadays as well.
Some scented body sprays do not contain true deodorant or antiperspirant ingredients. The fragrance in them is meant to cover up or mask other smells. However, these products do not always prevent body odor.
Prevent foot odor by wearing socks with shoes
Cotton socks or moisture-wicking socks are especially helpful, along with changing them often.
Choose breathable fabrics when sweating to minimize odor.
Cotton clothing or other natural fabric like linen or wool breathes better. Change clothes after working up a sweat from exercise or sports.
It’s a good idea to talk with the doctor if a child or teen is having constant or excessive sweating, or the sweating is affecting their mental health or social interactions.
The doctor may recommend testing to check for an underlying medical condition that can cause abnormal perspiration and body odor. They can also discuss treatment options for an uncommon genetic condition called hyperhidrosis, which causes spells of drenching sweat.
Also, talk with the child’s pediatrician if body odor or other puberty changes start earlier than age 8.
2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The content is provided for information purposes only.