Thankfully, there are now many deodorants in the market that are safe for kids to use. Puberty is one of the most exciting times in a child's life, but this major milestone gives rise to a few new concerns that they might struggle with. One of the most common such issues is the development of body odor, which may cause them to feel self-conscious and embarrassed.
In this article, we'll show you the best options for deodorants for kids that you can score online, all of which are child-friendly. We've also prepared a buying guide to show you the points to consider when purchasing a deodorant for your child. We also asked board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz to share some of her tips and insights. Read on to know more!
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
It's a common misconception that these two terms are interchangeable, but they're actually not. Here is what you need to know about the difference between the two.
Deodorants are topical products that neutralize body odor by killing the bacteria that contribute to its development. They do not in any way reduce the amount of sweat produced. Natural mineral salts like potassium alum and ammonium alum are commonly used to inhibit the growth of bacteria. This is a good enough choice for kids who do not sweat excessively but simply want to smell fresh and free of body odor.
Deodorants basically mask the unpleasant odor arising from the underarms. They typically contain ingredients that eliminate bacteria that cause the unpleasant odor.
On the other hand, antiperspirants do exactly what their name indicates, which is to stop or reduce perspiration. They usually contain aluminum salts like aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium that block the opening of sweat ducts.
This action leads to a temporary decrease in sweat production. By doing so, it lessens the opportunity for bacteria to develop and produce body odor. This is best for people who are worried about excessive sweating and would like to avoid underarm wetness.
For antiperspirants, read the label and look for ingredients such as aluminum chlorohydrate. Antiperspirants react with water in the glands to form gel-like plugs that block the sweat glands resulting in reducing sweating.
Just like with any product for children, it's important to read the label on a product to find out its active ingredients. That way, you can determine if it is safe for your child to use.
Deodorants made with natural ingredients are definitely a safer bet for children than those with largely chemical formulations. They are generally skin-friendly, and some include ingredients with added moisturizing benefits, such as coconut oil, tea tree oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, aloe, glycerin, and shea butter. They are also less likely to clog sweat glands.
Other natural ingredients that are helpful in fighting moisture are baking soda, arrowroot powder, magnesium, and cornstarch. These absorb moisture and help keep odor at bay. Microsilver and eucalyptus are also effective in reducing odor because of their antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
However, it's also important to note that your child might experience dryness and irritation even with natural ingredients. To be safe, you can check for sensitivity by testing the product on a small section of their body first.
It's important to keep in mind that 'natural' is not always better. Using natural ingredients does not guarantee that it has zero risk of causing an irritant or allergic reaction. It still pays to patch test!
Parabens are widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry, but they are frequently met with debate because they are said to be harmful to your health. However, studies have been inconclusive on this matter, so it's a good rule of thumb to be cautious when using products with parabens.
The more important consideration is the quantity used because they are currently considered safe but only up to a maximum of 25%. Another thing to check is the presence of fragrances. While it can be tempting to choose a lovely scent to mask underarm odor, fragrances, especially synthetic ones, might do more harm than good by causing allergies or irritation on your child's skin.
Parabens and propylene glycol are ingredients that have gotten a bad rep over the years. People see the label "paraben-free" on products and automatically assume parabens are bad and, therefore, may make misinformed decisions.
However, it's important to remember that the dose of an ingredient is a key consideration in determining whether something is safe vs. toxic. So does the overall formulation of a product. Hence, the importance of product safety testing through clinical studies.
Deodorants come in different formulations and dispensing methods. It is solely a matter of preference, so make sure to choose one that your child is comfortable using. Scroll down to find out what you can expect with each type of formulation.
By far the most common of all types, the roll-on deodorant is designed to follow the contours of the armpit for precise coverage. The product itself is in liquid form and glides onto the skin wet. However, it may take longer to dry and can feel sticky. Most roll-ons also contain alcohol and may leave some residue on clothing.
Roll-on deodorants are practical and easy to use. It basically boils down to personal preference when it comes to the choice of the form the deodorant comes in. A more important consideration is the ingredients it contains and its ability to address your concern!
Spray deodorants are convenient and easy to use because they can cover wide areas quickly with just one spritz. However, children need to be reminded to spray from a proper distance because they might get an aerosol burn if they spray the product too close to their skin. It's also best to remind them to shake the bottle before spraying to make sure the contents are dispersed evenly.
Stick deodorants are pretty much straightforward and perhaps the easiest to apply for kids. They simply glide the product on their armpits and wait a short time for it to dry. This type also commonly has other beneficial ingredients like emollients that can keep the underarm area moisturized.
Like roll-ons, gel deodorants come in a clear liquid form, although they are thicker. They feel very light on the skin and typically leave no stains or residues on clothing. The downside is that they take a bit longer to dry, which can be difficult for kids who are always on the go.
Of all the formulations, cream deodorants have the advantage of being the most long-lasting. This type is a paste-like formulation that you apply on the underarms with your fingers or a spatula. And because it lasts a long time, it's more cost-effective. Cream deodorants also tend to be more gentle and moisturizing on the skin because of nourishing ingredients added to them.
Stick, gel, or cream deodorants are also available in the market. Take you pick based on your personal preference and how it fits your lifestyle.
From ₱162
This product from Deonat has gained quite a wide following for its natural and child-friendly formulation, which is quite simple - this is good old tawas in liquid form that you apply using a roll-on bottle. It's safe for kids to use because it's paraben-free and uses ammonium alum to keep sweat and odor at bay.
It also contains organic aloe and castor oil to help soothe and condition the skin. These ingredients also have antibacterial properties that help combat bacteria, and consequently, underarm odor. Users love how it's non-staining and do not clog underarm pores as well.
From ₱795
Nuud leads the pack when it comes to deodorants that contain no chemicals and is 100% vegan. It contains no possible irritants like aluminum, alcohol, parabens, and artificial scents. To prevent body odor, this product does not inhibit sweat production; instead, it is formulated with microsilver to address the development of bacteria.
It is highly concentrated and packed with nourishing oils, so it's recommended to use just a tiny pea-sized amount when applying. In fact, it's so potent that it stays effective for as long as three days, even through showering, sports, and strenuous activities. This means that you don't have to apply this everyday, and that translates to more savings for you!
From ₱233
Known in the industry to provide nothing but the most gentle of products, Dove offers this fragrance-free deodorant formulated for sensitive skin and is safe for kids. This unscented antiperspirant deodorant will address body odor without triggering irritation.
Because it contains aluminum zirconium, it gives up to 48 hours of protection from wetness and odor. It also contains Dove's signature moisturizers to prevent dryness. These moisturizers make it easy to glide the deodorant on the underarm surface. All of these make for a deodorant that's nourishing and effective against body odor.
From ₱409
Dermatologist-tested and clinically proven to absorb wetness to fight odor all day, Dr Teal's has formulated a deodorant that's solely for kids. Instead of using aluminum to stop the production of sweat, it makes use of moisture-absorbing ingredients like magnesium, baking soda, and arrowroot powder.
It's also enriched with eucalyptus and essential oils for a natural fragrance that's sweet and light. Parents who've tried this product attest to its effectiveness and say that it's the only deodorant that has gotten rid of their children's unpleasant odor. In fact, it's so effective that some parents now use it for themselves, too!
From ₱159.75
Let your child enjoy the miracles of sunflower oil with this deodorant from Human Nature. As with all the other products by this brand, it is 100% natural and free of harsh ingredients like alcohol, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. It applies to the skin smoothly, dries quickly, and leaves no residue on clothing.
Another advantage is that it smoothens dry and rough skin, thanks to the sunflower oil in its formulation. It also contains tea tree oil, which has antibacterial properties that help curb odor. While this is not an antiperspirant, it can fight bacteria so well and keep your child smelling and feeling fresh all day!
From ₱881.02
With the clinical strength formulation that this product offers, kids can now have ultra-effective protection round the clock. Despite its powerful effects, it's still gentle and perfect for sensitive skin, since it's free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, and other cosmetic preservatives.
This product is recommended for both kids and adults who struggle with excessive sweating coupled with eczema and other skin issues. However, if your child has skin that's easily irritated, it's best to ask a dermatologist or pediatrician before using any product.
From ₱162
You can count on Nivea to make products that are effective yet gentle on skin. This deodorant is one such example - it offers 24-hour protection yet is made with a completely vegan formula that includes skin-nourishing ingredients like organic aloe vera and glycerin. It also contains no parabens and aluminum.
Its fragrance is a combination of lemon, watermelon, cucumber, and bergamot notes, and users love how it smells really light and fresh. The aloe vera also helps to give you a smooth feeling on the skin. It even has a smoothening and lightening effect, based on user reviews that state how it reduces chicken skin. This is a good choice for teenage girls who struggle with this issue.
From ₱1,757
This product banks on the ability of magnesium to absorb moisture instead of relying on aluminum or baking soda. It prides itself in providing a safe, non-toxic, and quick-drying product that's good for kids and for the planet as well. Packed with organic aloe, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, this stick is safe for sensitive skin.
The sweet and subtle scent is naturally derived as well, a combination of lavender oil and organic coconut oil. It also contains skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, organic carnauba wax, and arrowroot powder to maintain the pH balance of skin. This ensures that your child's underarms stay not just odor-free, but moisturized all day as well!
From ₱150
Made from absolutely pure mineral salt, this deodorant from Relumins is as natural as it gets. It uses potassium alum, a mineral with antimicrobial properties that can eliminate odor-causing bacteria. You and your child can get to enjoy 24-hour protection with none of the harmful chemicals!
The formula is also non-irritating, so it's great even for kids with sensitive skin. It isn't sticky and feels clean and light on the skin. You won't have to worry about residue on your clothes either because it is non-staining. Keep in mind, though, that this is not an antiperspirant and won't keep you sweat-free.
From ₱1,778
This deodorant definitely fits the bill when it comes to child-friendliness. Made with all-natural ingredients, it feels light and fresh under the arms and comes in a variety of naturally formulated scents. And since it doesn't contain aluminum, you can be assured that it won't leave stains on your clothes. This particular variant smells like coconut and vanilla - perfect for the tropics!
It harnesses the moisture-absorbing powers of baking soda and magnesium and offers great moisturizing with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. From this lineup of ingredients, you can tell that this is a product that performs well in keeping underarms free of sweat, odor, and dryness!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.
Bromhidrosis typically occurs after puberty and is more common in males. But if it develops way before puberty, that's something you'd want to check in with your board-certified dermatologist as it can be a clue to other conditions. Your dermatologist can also advise if deodorant is needed or an antiperspirant would suffice.
Remember, a sweaty odor can be expected from active children who run and play all day. However, a foul or unpleasant odor isn't too common amongst kids. So it would be good to see what could be the possible cause of the body odor and if deodorant is warranted.
In general, you would want a deodorant to get rid of the unpleasant odor. But you also want the deodorant to be gentle, moisturizing, and safe to be applied onto the underarm skin. A patch test is always a good idea!
Deodorants per se do not cause underarms to darken. However, an irritant or allergic contact dermatitis to an ingredient contained in the deodorant can. Once the inflammation from the reaction subsides, it typically resolves and leaves hyperpigmentation, aka darkened underarms. Thus, the importance of patch testing, yet again!
Teaching your child to practice good hygiene habits is essential to keep them clean, healthy, and smelling fresh the whole day. Check out the links below for more products that are recommended for babies and kids!
Author: A. Ugay
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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