When Should Teens Start Using Deodorant?

A Parent’s Guide to Navigating Puberty, Confidence, and Healthy Hygiene Habits

Puberty is a time of growth, change, and new experiences—for both teens and parents. One of the most common questions families face is: “When should my teen start using deodorant?”
The answer isn’t the same for every child, but there are clear signs and best practices to help you support your teen through this important milestone.

Understanding Body Odor & Puberty

As children approach puberty—typically between ages 9 and 14—hormonal changes trigger increased sweat production, especially from the apocrine glands found in the underarms. This sweat, when broken down by skin bacteria, creates body odor.

Common signs your teen may need deodorant:

Noticeable body odor after physical activity, sports, or even during normal daily routines
Increased sweating, especially under the arms
Expressing self-consciousness about odor or asking about deodorant
Starting puberty (growth spurts, voice changes, developing body hair)

Every child’s timeline is unique, so it’s important to watch for these signs rather than relying strictly on age.

How to Start the Deodorant Conversation

Introducing deodorant doesn’t have to be awkward! Here are a few tips to make it a positive experience:

Normalize the Change: Let your teen know that body odor is a normal part of growing up and nothing to be embarrassed about.
Empower Their Choice: Give them the option to choose their own deodorant scent or formula. Explore all Prep U natural deodorant scents together.
Encourage Daily Routines: Incorporate deodorant use into a broader conversation about hygiene—showering, changing clothes, and caring for skin.

For more advice, check out our Teen Hygiene Checklist for simple steps to build lifelong healthy habits.

Why Choose Natural Deodorant for Teens?

When it’s time for your teen to start using deodorant, ingredient safety is key. Many conventional deodorants and antiperspirants contain aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances that may not be ideal for developing bodies.

Prep U’s natural deodorants are:

Aluminum-free: Allowing the body’s natural sweating process
Plant-based & dermatologist recommended: Gentle on sensitive, acne-prone, and developing skin
Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and gluten
Available in six fresh scents designed for teens and tweens

FAQs: Deodorant for Teens

Q: Is deodorant or antiperspirant better for my teen?
A: For most teens, a natural deodorant is the safest choice. Antiperspirants block sweat glands using aluminum, while deodorants neutralize odor and allow the body to sweat naturally.

Q: What if my teen has sensitive skin or allergies?
A: Look for dermatologist-recommended, fragrance-free, or plant-based formulas. All Prep U deodorants are formulated for sensitive skin and are EWG Verified.

Q: How often should my teen apply deodorant?
A: Encourage daily application after showering or bathing. For active teens, reapplication after sports or gym class may be helpful.

Q: Are Prep U products safe for tweens and preteens?
A: Yes! Our deodorants are gentle enough for kids as young as 8 or 9, depending on individual needs.

Parent-Tested, Teen-Approved

Prep U is a parent-founded brand, featured in GQ, Parents Magazine, and Your Teen Magazine for our commitment to safe, effective, and natural hygiene solutions for teens. Our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly—so you can feel confident in your family’s daily routine.

Shop Safe, Natural Deodorant for Teens

Ready to help your teen feel confident, clean, and odor-free?
Browse our full collection of natural deodorants, discover bundle-and-save options, and get expert tips in our Resource Library.