Deodorants for teenagers: When should they start using deodorant?

Follow your parental instincts
As most parents know, teens develop at completely different speeds. While one teen might be happy to use deodorant every morning, another might not feel the need until much later on – if at all. If you or your teenager are wondering when should you start using deodorant, the answer is simple – whenever it feels right. The American Academy of Pediatrics, for example, doesn’t recommend a specific age for teens to start using deodorant, instead it’s a totally personal decision, based on preference, activity levels and lifestyle. It’s also a good idea to talk to your medical professional to discuss what’s best for your teen’s particular needs.

Puberty is usually when changes to body odor and personal hygiene start. This is a good time to start having relaxed conversations around these subjects, explaining that body odor and sweat are completely natural and that wearing deodorant or antiperspirant is a personal choice. If they’re showing interest in the idea and you think it would be beneficial (because they’re conscious of body odor or have started playing regular sports) our Dove Teens Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick makes a great ‘first’ deo.

With its invigorating playful Blue Raspberry scent, it’s kind to skin but delivers in antiperspirant benefits, offering up to 48 hours odor and sweat protection. The 0% alcohol formula with ¼ moisturizers is gentle to underarms and the instant-drying technology means teens can use some antiperspirant and go on with their day, without worrying about body odor or sweat.

Our Dove Teens Antiperspirant Deodorant is also available as a spray. If your teen would prefer to use the spray, we recommend that parents or guardians have an education moment with their teens on the safe use of aerosol products. ACE has advice for parents on this, find out more here.

If your teen would like to try aluminum-free deodorant, our dermatologist-tested Dove Teens Aluminum-free Deodorant Stick comes in a selection of fresh, fruity scents and provides long-lasting odor protection, in a simple stick.

Feeling sensitive?
If your teen has made the choice to start shaving – or perhaps they’re experiencing sensitive skin for other reasons – remind them that products that are gentle and kind to skin work. ‘Gentle’ doesn’t have to mean ineffective. Our Dove Teens Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick is alcohol-free, but will keep armpits fresh and protected from sweat. Its non-irritating formula is designed to care for your teen’s skin.

If odor – and not sweat – is the main concern, choosing an aluminum-free sensitive stick might be the best choice. Our Dove Teens Aluminum-Free Deodorant Stick is designed with underarm care in mind and won’t compromise on odor protection.

Teenagers conscious of body odor might be interested in our new must-have refillable range. As well as offering 48-hour odor protection, the 0% aluminum formula – available in a variety of vibrant scents – is packaged in a durable, reusable stainless steel container which makes it perfect for school trips, sports and sleepovers.