Body odor is a natural occurrence for most adults, who treat it with good personal hygiene habits and commercial antiperspirants or deodorants. It generally starts in the latter part of childhood, when kids are moving into puberty. It can start earlier in some people. This may be normal for that particular individual, or it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem.
Definition
Body odor is a natural part of the maturing process. Kids typically develop it when they reach adolescence, according to Net Wellness. They become more prone to bacteria growth on the skin. The bacteria breaks down natural skin oils, which produces the unpleasant smell commonly known as body odor. People often associate body odor with sweat, but the liquid itself is odorless.
Causes
Younger kids can develop body odor if they undergo premature adrenarche. This means entering puberty early, according to Net Wellness. Several other signs typically accompany the body odor, including rapidly increasing height and weight and hair growth under the arms and in the pubic area. Girls will exhibit breast development. Premature andrenarche can be normal, but it should be evaluated by an endocrinologist as it might be a sign of hormonal problems.
Some very young children may have body odor prior to adolescence because they sweat excessively. Dr. Robert Needlman, a pediatrician who writes for the Dr. Spock website, explains that this is known as hyperhydrosis. It may be especially noticeable if the child lives in a hot climate. Frequent bathing and mild deodorant products usually keep the problem under control.
Time Frame
The normal time frame for puberty, and the accompanying body odor, is different for boys and girls. Nemours, a children's hospital network, explains that boys usually mature between the ages of 10 and 15. Girls often start earlier, with puberty occurring between ages eight and 13.
Alternative Causes
A metabolic disorder called phenylketonuria causes kids to emit a smell that may be mistaken for body odor. It is actually caused by the body's inability to break down a certain amino acid. Phenylketonuria causes severe physical and mental problems, Net Wellness explains. It is usually caught at birth because all 50 states require screening of this disorder in newborns. It can be treated with a special diet when caught early, which will prevent the odor and other issues.
Treatment
Body odor that is not associated with a medical condition can be treated with proper hygiene and antiperspirants or deodorants. Kids should learn to shower regularly and apply an appropriate product afterward.
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