How to Choose the Right Deodorant for Your Teen

Written by: Julie Bowen

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Time to read 3 min

Ah, adolescence – that magical time of life when hormones rage, emotions run wild, and your teenager starts to develop a distinct aroma that makes you wonder if someone is cooking gym socks in the oven. Before lighting another scented candle, consider attacking the smells where they start. Your video game-playing, sports-loving, I-will-only-wear-one-hoodie kid is hiding a bacteria farm in his armpits. A kids’ deodorant is obviously the solution, but how do you know which one to buy?


Selecting the right deodorant for your teenager is a crucial mission, much like finding the Holy Grail or deciphering the meaning behind TikTok trends. Fear not, intrepid parents, for I am here to guide you through the maze of body odors and hygiene for teens. So, grab your nose plugs and let's embark on this aromatic adventure.

1. The Scent-sational Symphony:

Teenagers are a unique breed, and so are their body odors. Remember these are middle schoolers, not bachelors out for a night on the town. Take a pass on deodorants with names like “Harem’s Dream” or “Man Musk”. Instead, opt for a deodorant with a subtle scent that won't overpower your teen's natural fragrance or drive away potential friends. Sure, B.O. is a bummer, but, “I will suffocate you with my cologne" is arguably worse.


2. The Formula Fandango:

When it comes to deodorant for children, there are more options than there are excuses for not doing homework. Roll-ons, sticks, gels, creams – it's like a beauty aisle version of a superhero team. Consider your teen's lifestyle. If they're on the go, a solid stick might be their sidekick. If they're more of a secret agent, a discreet roll-on could be their weapon of choice.

Boy applying body spray

 

3. The 48-Hour Mirage:

Some deodorants for kids promise protection for 48 hours – as if your teen is training for a marathon in the Sahara. While it's tempting to envision a world where your teenager doesn't need to reapply during a zombie apocalypse, stick to the 24-hour warriors. No one needs that much protection (or the chemicals it takes to make a deodorant last that long!).


4. The Dermatological Dance:

Teenagers and their skin – it's like a complicated tango with acne, eczema, and sensitivity. Go for a deodorant company with a dermatologist-approved label. Avoid anything with the words "tropical blast" or "arctic freeze" unless you want your teen's underarms to feel like they just wrestled a polar bear.

Body spray close up

5. The Peer-Reviewed Panel:

When in doubt, consult the experts – your teen's friends. Peer pressure isn't always a bad thing when it comes to teen hygiene. Find out what the cool kids are using and see if it aligns with your olfactory and parental standards. Just be prepared for your teen to claim that they "totally knew about it first."


In conclusion, choosing the right deodorant for your teenager is like solving a mystery – a mystery with hints of body odor and a splash of awkwardness. Navigate the aisles armed with knowledge, a sense of humor, and maybe a clothespin for your nose. After all, this is just one of the many fragrant rites of passage on the perilous journey through teen hygiene. Good luck, brave parent, and may the scent be ever in your favor!

JB SKRUB Founder Julie Bowen

Julie Bowen

Julie Bowen is a two-time Emmy winner for her portrayal of “Claire Dunphy” on the hit show, Modern Family. On the big screen Julie is often remembered for her iconic appearance in Adam Sandler’s early movie, Happy Gilmore but more recently in film, she starred in Mixtape and Hubie Halloween for Netflix and was featured in Totally Killer for Blumhouse Productions on Amazon. Julie is also a director, having directed two episodes of Modern Family and a short film called Girl Code. She voices characters in Disney's Duck Tales and Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure. Currently in development as a producer on several series and films with her production company Bowen & Sons with business partner, Rachael Field. They most recently produced Prom Pact for Disney+. Julie owns this skincare brand, JB SKRUB, for tween boys. She is a founding board member of the national nonprofit, Baby2Baby.

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