A Simple Puberty Hygiene Routine for Boys

Published November 14, 2026 · Written from AAP, KidsHealth and other pediatric sources

Puberty brings sweat, oil, hair and new smells, often before a boy has noticed or learned what to do about them. A calm, matter-of-fact routine helps more than a lecture. Here is what pediatric sources recommend.

Why it happens

The Hospital for Sick Children's AboutKidsHealth explains that apocrine sweat glands become active during puberty and are the source of body odor, which occurs when their sweat meets bacteria on the skin. KidsHealth adds that sweat glands become more active and release different chemicals, so the smell is stronger than before. It is normal and nothing to be ashamed of.

The daily basics

Shower or bathe daily. KidsHealth recommends a daily bath or shower with mild soap and warm water, which helps wash away the bacteria that cause smells. Feet and the groin area can have new smells too.
Clean clothes every day. That includes socks and underwear. KidsHealth says cotton or other natural fabrics absorb sweat better, and AboutKidsHealth notes odor can linger on worn clothes.
Deodorant or antiperspirant, as needed. AboutKidsHealth says deodorant covers odor but does not stop sweating, while antiperspirant temporarily blocks sweat glands. KidsHealth points out that some teens do not need either if they shower daily and wear clean clothes, so it is fine to try one and see.
Follow the directions on the product. Some work best at night and others in the morning.

Oily hair

KidsHealth says extra oil during puberty can make hair look greasy, and that washing it every day or every other day helps. Use a small amount of shampoo and do not scrub hard, since that does not remove oil better and can irritate the scalp. Look for styling products labeled greaseless or oil free.

Acne

It is normal. The AAP notes that most teens get some acne at some point and that it usually clears up as they get older. CHOC says it affects about 80 percent of teens.
Wash gently. KidsHealth says to use a mild soap and warm water once or twice a day and not to scrub, because acne cannot be scrubbed away and scrubbing may make it worse. CHOC says no more than twice a day and to pat the skin dry. The AAP adds that after sports or heavy sweating, he should wash his face right afterward.
Do not pick. KidsHealth says picking can leave small permanent scars.
Be patient. The AAP says it can take 3 to 6 weeks to see a change from a treatment and up to about 12 weeks for the most improvement.
Know when to ask. If store-bought products do not help, talk to his pediatrician. One AAP-based handout suggests a visit if acne has not improved after 2 months or looks infected, with large, red, tender bumps.

Shaving

KidsHealth says whether to shave is up to him. If he does, it suggests going slowly, using a new sharp blade with shaving cream or gel, or an electric razor, and asking an adult for tips while learning.

Making it easy to talk about

Try presenting it as part of a normal routine, like brushing teeth, rather than as a problem. A quick, private mention, with the supplies already in the bathroom, goes further than a big talk.

Good to know: This article is general education, not medical advice. If you are worried about your son's health or development, ask his pediatrician.

Want help starting the conversation? Get the free parent conversation guide on the home page, or see the book for boys 12 to 15.

Sources

Facts checked against these pages on November 14, 2026. See how we fact-check.