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5 Tips for Talking to Your Teen or Tween about B.O.

Is your teen starting to deal with body odor? Do you notice a funky smell emanating from their gym clothes, sports outfits, or favorite shirts? Don’t fret! SmartyPits is here with five pointers for talking to your teen or tween about self-care and personal pit hygiene.

  1. Pay attention for signs your child’s body odor has changed. In some individuals, puberty can appear suddenly, and the ensuing body odor will likely manifest itself in very noticeable ways. For example, you will often notice a difference in the smells coming from your child’s dirty clothes, most especially gym clothes and sports attire.

  2. Start discussing the topic early. While the average age for puberty between boys and girls is 10 to 12 years old, it is not uncommon for your child’s body to start changing as early as 7 or 8 years old. If you begin the conversation about body odor at a younger age, you will lessen the stigma and increase your child’s comfort level surrounding the topic when they begin to experience the issue.

  3. Don’t be afraid to talk about the source of your teen’s body odor. For some, puberty can feel like a touchy subject, and even body odor can feel like a private affair to most people. However, the more you openly discuss your teen’s new body odor—and its connection with puberty and the aging process—the more comfortable and empowered they will feel when they’re handling their changing body.

  4. Give your teen the choice when it comes to the scent and strength of their deodorant. Smell is a very personal thing, and your teen is likely already feeling insecure about the new “stinky” odors coming from their clothes and body. Forcing the solution all by yourself ignores your child’s autonomy and provides them with no confidence in caring for their body. On the other hand,  If your child is allowed to choose what’s right for them, especially between the diverse, all-natural, and aluminum-free lineup of the SmartyPits Teen collection, they are much more likely to take ownership of their self-care solutions going forward.

  5. Take notice of any reactions or irritations on your child’s skin following the first application of new deodorant. Some deodorants can cause discomfort and irritation for new users. If you notice this happening with your teen, search for a sensitive-skin deodorant as an alternative. Our SmartyPits teen collection is available in sensitive-skin formulas to protect your teen or tween from potential rashes or reactions!