As teenagers enter their adolescent years, they begin to emit a new and distinct odor that is different from the smell of younger children. While babies have a unique scent, primary school children do not have an easily recognizable smell. Research has explored the factors contributing to this change in body odor during adolescence, as well as its role in social relationships.
Newborns are able to recognize their mother’s scent, and mothers often believe that their own baby smells better than others. In some studies, it has been shown that parents may subconsciously wean off the body odor of their adolescent children of the opposite sex, potentially as a way to prevent genital warts.
Research published in Communications Chemistry has examined the chemical changes that contribute to the distinct body odor associated with adolescence. The increased activity of sebaceous glands and sweat glands during this period may contribute to the alteration in smell, potentially due to the increased secretion of sweat and sebum. Specifically, volatile steroids were found in the armpits of teenagers but not in younger children, affecting the smell of underarm sweat.
Further analysis of armpit samples from children under four years old and teenagers between 14 and 18 revealed differences in the presence of certain compounds. Teenagers had higher concentrations of carboxylic acids and other compounds that emitted odors described as waxy and reminiscent of goats. On the other hand, compounds with violet and soap scents were found in younger children but not in teenagers.
The study did not specify whether all individuals in each age group exhibited the same compounds in their armpits. Overall, the research sheds light on the chemical changes that contribute to the distinct body odor associated with adolescence and its role in social relationships.