Hygiene for Teens Age 13: What to Expect

Teens 13–17 · Age guide · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Hygiene Habits Are Realistic for a 13-Year-Old Teen?

At age 13, many teens notice physical changes like increased sweating, body odor, and oily skin due to puberty. It’s realistic for teens this age to establish daily habits such as:

• Showering or bathing every day, especially after physical activity or sweating
• Using deodorant or antiperspirant to manage body odor
• Brushing teeth at least twice daily and flossing once a day
• Washing hands regularly, especially before eating and after restroom use
• Gently washing their face twice a day to help with oiliness and prevent acne

Teens may still need occasional reminders to maintain these routines but should be encouraged to do these tasks independently. A good way to introduce this is by creating a simple checklist they can follow each morning and night, such as:

1. Brush teeth after waking up
2. Shower or wash face and body
3. Apply deodorant
4. Brush teeth before bed

Parents can help by providing the right products like mild face wash and deodorant and by showing how to use them properly. For example, explain how to apply deodorant by lifting the arm and rolling or spraying evenly under each arm.

How Does Hygiene Change for Teens Ages 14 to 16?

Between 14 and 16, teens often become more aware of their hygiene and may want to customize their routines. At these ages, new hygiene tasks to expect include:

• Trying different deodorant scents or formulas to find what suits them best
• Using acne-specific skincare products such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid cleansers (after consulting a healthcare provider)
• Washing and styling hair regularly, learning what shampoo and conditioner work well for their hair type
• Trimming and cleaning fingernails and toenails to prevent dirt buildup and infections
• For girls, managing menstrual hygiene independently with pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, and learning how to change and dispose of products properly

Teens may also start grooming behaviors like shaving underarms or facial hair. Parents can support this by discussing safety tips for shaving, such as using clean razors, shaving cream, and moving the razor gently without rushing.

Encourage teens to listen to their bodies and adjust their routines. For example, if a specific face wash irritates their skin, they should stop using it and try a gentler product. Open conversations about what feels comfortable are key.

What Signs Show a Teen Is Ready for More Hygiene Independence?

You can tell a teen is ready to take on more hygiene responsibility when they:

• Begin initiating hygiene tasks, like showering or brushing teeth, without reminders
• Ask questions about new products, such as “Which deodorant should I try?” or “How do I pick a good face wash?”
• Express concern about changes like body odor or acne and seek solutions
• Manage their own laundry, choosing clean clothes daily and handling washing as needed
• Show interest in managing menstrual hygiene or grooming on their own

When you notice these signs, it’s a good moment to step back and let the teen take full control while being available to answer questions or offer advice. For instance, say, “I’m glad you’re thinking about your skincare. Let me know if you want help picking products.”

How Can Parents or Guardians Introduce New Hygiene Routines?

Introducing new hygiene habits works well with clear communication, patience, and practical guidance. Parents can try these steps:

1. Start Early: Talk about hygiene basics by age 12, before puberty’s full effects occur.
2. Use Open Dialogue: Invite questions without judgment. For example, “It’s normal to sweat more now. Have you thought about using deodorant?”
3. Provide the Right Products: Offer gentle, age-appropriate soaps, deodorants, and skincare items.
4. Create Routines Together: Help teens build a daily schedule, like brushing teeth before bed or showering after sports.
5. Show How to Use Products: Demonstrate the correct way to wash face or apply deodorant.
6. Respect Privacy: Give teens space to manage their hygiene independently, while checking in occasionally.

For example, a parent might say, “Would you like me to help you pick a deodorant at the store? We can try a few and see which you like best.” This respectful approach encourages cooperation.

What Are Common Worries Parents Have About Teen Hygiene?

Parents often worry about whether their teen is:

• Showering often enough to stay clean and fresh
• Controlling body odor effectively, especially around peers
• Managing acne or skin problems in healthy ways
• Understanding and practicing menstrual hygiene accurately
• Learning safe grooming habits, like shaving without cuts or infections

These concerns can be eased by keeping communication open and nonjudgmental. If a teen is struggling with acne, parents can suggest seeing a healthcare provider for safe treatments. If hygiene lapses occur, gentle reminders and encouragement usually work better than criticism.

When Should Hygiene Routines Be Adjusted for Individual Teens?

Hygiene routines should adapt to each teen’s unique needs. Adjust routines if:

• The teen has very oily or acne-prone skin requiring specialized care
• They sweat heavily and might benefit from clinical deodorants (consult a doctor)
• Menstrual cycles are irregular, needing different products or schedules
• Sensory issues make certain soaps or deodorants uncomfortable
• Attention or memory challenges lead to forgetting hygiene tasks

For example, a teen with sensitive skin might need fragrance-free body wash, or a teen with sensory sensitivities might prefer unscented deodorant sticks over sprays. Collaborate with the teen to find what works best, and consult healthcare professionals if needed.

How Do Hygiene Needs Change as Teens Approach 18?

By the time teens reach 17 or 18, they usually have solid hygiene habits. They often:

• Use advanced skincare products tailored to their skin’s needs
• Manage grooming like shaving facial or body hair confidently and safely
• Take full responsibility for laundry and clothing care
• Understand menstrual and sexual hygiene independently

This age often brings new social or romantic situations where personal hygiene impacts confidence. Teens may also learn about maintaining fresh breath through flossing and mouthwash or managing hygiene when traveling or living independently.

Supporting this transition means encouraging informed choices, respecting privacy, and offering resources. For deeper tips for this age, see hygiene tips for 18-year-olds here.

Hygiene Habits Summary Table by Age Band

This table helps teens and parents understand what hygiene steps are typical and how to support growth.

For beginner-friendly tips and basic hygiene guidance, explore articles like Hygiene for Teens for Beginners and Personal Hygiene Tips Every Teen Should Know.

Frequently asked questions

How often should a 13-year-old shower?

A 13-year-old should shower at least once a day, especially after physical activity or sweating, to remove sweat and prevent body odor. If daily showers are difficult, showering every other day is okay, but deodorant should still be used daily to manage odor.

What type of deodorant is best for teens starting puberty?

Teens new to deodorant should try gentle, fragrance-free or lightly scented options labeled for sensitive skin. These reduce the chance of irritation. As teens grow older and sweat more, they can try antiperspirants, but it’s best to start slowly and observe how their skin reacts.

When should girls start learning about menstrual hygiene?

Girls often start learning about menstrual hygiene between ages 10 and 13, before or around their first period. It’s helpful to have open, honest conversations about using pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, and explain how to change and dispose of these products safely and discreetly.

How can teens manage acne through hygiene?

Managing acne involves washing the face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, avoiding harsh scrubbing, and using non-comedogenic moisturizers. Keeping hair clean and not touching the face frequently can help. If acne is severe, a healthcare provider can recommend treatments.

What if a teen forgets or skips hygiene tasks?

Forgetting hygiene tasks is common as teens learn independence. Parents can offer gentle reminders and help set routines like checklists or alarms. Keeping hygiene products visible and easily accessible also encourages consistent habits.