Natural Deodorant for Kids: A Parents' Guide

The tween years are full of changes, and for parents, it can be a difficult time to navigate. According to the Child Mind Institute, tweens are loosely defined as children between the ages of eight and twelve. Though a relatively short period of time, these years include monumental shifts in cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. That physical development can make it a perfect time to introduce a natural deodorant for kids.

When Kids Should Start Using Deodorant

Many families wait for signs of puberty before introducing their child to an underarm product. Others might notice bodily changes earlier, either because their child is especially active, or as a result of their chemistry or diet. Starting the practice of using a natural deodorant for kids before puberty officially begins could help avoid an embarrassing situation later on. Tween years are tumultuous enough!

Kids might not immediately embrace the new hygiene practices that come with puberty. Showering more frequently, shaving, and wearing deodorant are habits that can take some time to get used to. By introducing an underarm product early, your child's routine will be well established by the time they really need odor protection.

Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant

People often use the word deodorant to refer to any underarm product. In reality, there is a big difference between products labeled as deodorant and those labeled as antiperspirant. While deodorants are designed for odor protection, antiperspirants claim to reduce underarm sweat.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, the only active ingredients currently approved for antiperspirants are variations of aluminum salts. While underarm products containing aluminum are considered safe, there are some people who prefer to avoid using products that contain it. Understanding the difference between aluminum-free deodorant and antiperspirant is the first step in deciding which product is best for you and your family.

Choosing a Natural Deodorant for Kids

As a parent, you've likely taken care to avoid unnecessarily exposing your children to artificial ingredients in food. The great news is that you can do the same with personal care! Many companies are now introducing products, including kid's deodorant, with kid-friendly packaging and naturally derived ingredients.

Tom's of Maine Boy's Freestyle in Wicked Cool scent is one option with a fragrance specially designed for tweens. It provides twenty-four hours of odor protection with no artificial fragrances or preservatives. Additionally, it's aluminum-free and paraben-free. The product is also available in a scent designed for girls: Girls Summer Fun in Wicked Cool scent.

You may want to purchase several different deodorant options for your tween to try. What works great for one member of your family might not be a great fit for somebody else. And different people are drawn to different fragrances. By letting your child make the ultimate decision on their new deodorant, you have a better chance of them actually using it!

Is your family switching over to natural personal care products? Get answers to your questions by following the Naturally Good Products board by @tomsofmaine on Pinterest!

Image Sources: picjumbo | Pixabay | Bridget M. Burns

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