The Best Deodorants You Should Be Buying Your Kids, According to Several Dermatologists

One minute, your child is a crying, diaper-wearing infant and the next they’re a fully functioning human who’s starting to take on the appearance—and the smell—of an adolescent. This typically occurs as the result of hormonal changes that lead to an increase in the body’s production of apocrine sweat, which when broken down by skin bacteria contributes to body odor,” explains Brendan Camp , MD, a Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.

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Best Deodorants for Kids at a Glance

Best Overall: Toms of Maine Wicked Cool Kids Deodorant , $10
Best for Sensitive Skin: Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Stick Sensitive (pack of 3), $29
Best Antiperspirant: Duradry AM Deodorant & Antiperspirant , $13
Best for Hypoallergenic: Lume Deodorant , $15
Best Fragrance-Free: Hume Supernatural Roll On Deodorant , $17
Best for Boys: Certain Dri Prescription Strength Antiperspirant invisible Roll-On , $18
Best for Girls: Native Deodorant , $13
Best for Teens: Hello Natural Deodorant with Activated Charcoal , $35 for 3-pack
Best Organic Option: Primally Pure Deodorant , $16
Best Aluminum-Free: Truly’s Natural Deodorant for Kids , $10

What Age Should a Child Start Using Deodorant?

Deodorant is generally safe for individuals of all ages, but the decision on when to start using it is personal and situational. “Some children, particularly those who are active or maturing early, may benefit from using deodorant as early as eight or nine years old, while others may not need it until they reach puberty and experience hormonal changes,” says Dendy Engelman , MD, cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic. “If you are concerned about your child using deodorant too early, natural alternatives like mineral salts, baking soda, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can effectively combat odor and absorb moisture.”

What Type of Deodorant Is Best for a Child?

Unlike the adult deodorants you likely use for yourself, a deodorant for a kid comes with its own set of requirements, namely that they are free from harsh chemicals and super-strong fragrances that can cause irritation. For starters, when selecting a deodorant for a child, it’s important to prioritize products that are as clean and natural as possible. This, Dr. Engelman, explains, helps lower the risk of irritation or an allergic reaction, and prevents children’s sensitive skin from absorbing any potentially harmful ingredients.

She recommends avoiding harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, as these can cause adverse reactions, especially on childrens’ more sensitive skin.” Instead, look for fragrances derived from essential oils or natural sources, and keep an eye out for labels like ‘clean’ and ‘natural ingredients,’” she says. “Deodorants made from plant-based ingredients, such as flowers, herbs, oils and clays, contain natural actives that are gentle on the skin.”

What Ingredients Should Be Avoided in a Kids’ Deodorant?

When choosing a deodorant for kids, there are several ingredients to avoid due to their potential health risks. For starters, parabens, often added to extend shelf life, are toxic and can interfere with bodily functions, disrupting hormone balance and potentially leading to long-term health issues, warns Dr. Engelman. “Talc, used to absorb moisture, has been linked to cancer and other serious health complications, making it unsuitable for children’s (or anyone’s!) delicate skin,” she says. “Aluminum, though effective at blocking sweat glands, accumulates in the body with each use and poses a significant toxic risk over time.”

Dr. Engelman also urges parents to be wary of alcohols and synthetic perfumes, which can cause skin irritation and sensitivity, as well as propylene glycol, a chemical notorious for causing rashes and may even impact the nervous system. “Considering that our skin absorbs more of these substances than most of us realize, it’s crucial to be informed about the ingredients in the products we choose for our children,” she says.

Experts in This Article

Marisa Garshick , MD: Dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City
Brendan Camp , MD: A Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology
Dendy Engelman , MD: cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Walmart is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

The Best Deodorants for Kids According to Dermatologists

BEST OVERALL

Toms of Maine Wicked Cool Kids Deodorant (Freestyle)

Specially formulated for the delicate needs of children, this deodorant offers gentle yet effective odor protection. “It contains natural fragrances, is free from aluminum, parabens and artificial preservatives and provides long-lasting odor protection with a gentle formula; it is particularly suitable for children with sensitive skin,” says Marisa Garshick , MD, dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City.

Active ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Stearate
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Plant essential oils

Pros:
Natural ingredients
Long-lasting protection
Cruelty-free

Cons:
Mild scent
Prone to melting in heat

BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Dove, 0% Aluminum Deodorant Stick (Sensitive) — Pack of 3

All kids have sensitive skin, so it’s smart to shop for a deodorant that offers the benefit of being ultra gentle. This one is formulated without aluminum or alcohol, minimizing the risk of irritation. “In addition to reducing odor, it contains one-fourth moisturizers which help to nourish and moisturize the underarm skin,” notes Dr. Garshick.

Active ingredients: Dipropylene Glycol, Water, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Stearate, Poloxamine 1307, Fragrance, Stearic Acid, Disodium Edta, Bht, Simethicone
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Fragrance

Pros:
Gentle on skin
Effective at reducing odor
Moisturizing

Cons:
Requires reapplication
Potential for white marks

BEST ANTIPERSPIRANT

Duradry, AM Deodorant & Antiperspirant

With a potent 20 percent concentration of active ingredients, this antiperspirant offers remarkable results within just one week of consistent use. “It’s formulated to tackle hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating beyond what’s necessary to regulate body temperature,” explains Dr. Engelan. “It offers effective control over underarm sweating within just one week of regular use, providing unparalleled defense against both sweat and odor.”

Active ingredients: Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex Gly, C13-15 Alkane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetyl Palmitate, Ethylhexylglycerin
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Barca

Pros:
Effective sweat control
Long-lasting
Gentle on skin
Clinically tested

Cons:
Fragrance might be overwhelming
Pricey

BEST HYPOALLERGENIC

Lume, Whole Body Deodorant

Lume stands out in the deodorant market with its innovative approach to odor prevention. Unlike traditional deodorants that merely mask odors, Lume targets the root cause by blocking odor-causing bacteria, explains Dr. Engelman. “This doctor-developed formula is free from aluminum, baking soda, and artificial fragrances, making it gentle on sensitive skin.”. Its 72-hour odor protection and hypoallergenic properties have made it a popular choice for those seeking a natural and effective alternative to conventional deodorants.

Active ingredients: Mandelic Acid
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Citrus, Tangerine

Pros:
Effective odor control
Gentle on skin
Cruelty-free

Cons:
Fragrance might be too strong
Pricey

BEST FRAGRANCE-FREE

Hume, Supernatural Roll-On Deodorant

Hume deodorants are pure formulas without talc, parabens, baking soda or artificial fragrances, making them great for kids. Their products are cruelty-free and vegan, and they last for 24 hours. “The innovative blend of prebiotics and probiotics nourishes the skin and supports the body’s natural defenses to prevent odor before it starts, while plant-based zinc ricinoleate further neutralizes odors, ensuring a microbiome-approved approach to freshness,” says Dr. Engelman.

Active ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Water (Aqua), Sodium Stearate, Propanediol, Diatomaceous Earth,
Form: Roll on
Fragrance(s): No

Pros:
Natural ingredients
Probiotic formula
Gentle on skin

Cons:
Application can be messy
Doesn’t work as well for sweaters

BEST FOR BOYS

Certain Dri, Prescription Strength Antiperspirant Invisible Roll-On

Containing aluminum chloride, this fragrance-free antiperspirant contains the same ingredient that is found in prescription antiperspirants to effectively reduce sweating. It’s backed by research and recommended by dermatologists, however, Dr. Garshick recommends applying at nighttime for maximum benefit and to minimize irritation.

Active ingredients: 20% Aluminum Zirconium
Form: Roll on
Fragrance(s): No

Pros:
Highly effective
Long-lasting results
Clinically proven

Cons:
Can cause irritation in some
Requires at-night application

BEST FOR GIRLS

Native, Deodorant

This well-known brand offers a sensitive version of their popular deodorant, which is ideal for children. “Free from aluminum, parabens, and phthalates, its formulation includes coconut oil and shea butter, Native comes in various light, natural scents and provides effective odor protection,” says Dr. Garshick. The brand also aligns with ethical values for parents who prioritize animal welfare.

Active ingredients: Baking soda, coconut oil, shea butter, essential oils
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Essential oils

Pros:
Natural ingredients
Gentle on skin
Fun scents

Cons:
Potential for staining

BEST FOR TEENS

Hello, Natural Deodorant With Activated Charcoal (3-Pack)

Free from harmful chemicals like aluminum, parabens and phthalates and instead using natural ingredients like tea tree oil, shea butter, and essential oils, this roll-on deodorant offers gentle care for delicate skin. It’s known for its innovative use of activated charcoal, which effectively neutralizes odor explains Dr. Garshick. “The activated charcoal helps absorb moisture and toxins, providing a natural way to keep kids fresh.”

Active ingredients: Activated charcoal
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Natural scents

Pros:
Natural ingredients
Activated charcoal
Gentle on skin

Cons:
Doesn’t rub in well

BEST ORGANIC

Primally Pure, Vanilla + Citrus Deodorant

Primally Pure deodorant stands out for its unwavering commitment to purity. The brand is dedicated to natural, non-toxic formulation sets, offering consumers a deodorant that aligns with their desire for clean and effective personal care products. “I love that they collaborate with small family farms and source from wildcrafted botanicals, along with ethically-processed ingredients,” adds Dr. Engelman

Active ingredients: Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic and Fair Trade Coconut Oil, Baking Soda, Organic Tallow from Grass-Fed Cows, Organic Beeswax, Non-nano Zinc Oxide, Essential Oils of Wildcrafted Orange, Organic Vanilla and Organic Sandalwood, Kaolin Clay, Organic Rosemary Extract, Non-GMO Vitamin E
Form: Stick
Fragrance(s): Vanilla and citrus

Pros:
Natural ingredients
Effective odor control
Ethical sourcing

Cons:
Requires reapplication
Pricey

BEST ALUMINUM-FREE

Truly's, Natural Deodorant for Kids

Made from all-natural ingredients, Truly is a safe choice for kids, especially those with sensitive skin since it’s non-stinging and non-staining. In fact, the ingredients are so natural that the brand claims they’re actually edible. “It contains organic coconut oil, baking soda, and powdered sugar, ensuring a chemical-free experience,” says Dr. Garshick.

Active ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Stearate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Glyceryl Laurate
Form: Roll on
Fragrance(s): Rose Water, Calendula
Pros:
Natural ingredients
Gentle on skin
Versatile use case

Cons:
Application can be messy