Hey! I’m Farzana Spiro, an employed entrepreneur and CEO of Ellie’s Earth, Canada’s first premium all natural deodorant for youth. If you’re new here, I’m so glad you found us! And if you’re a regular, welcome back! Grab a coffee, tea or water (I prefer coffee), sit back and enjoy a good read. I know you’ve always wanted to know the answer to the question I posed above, so let’s give it a go!
First, let’s debunk a myth that I didn’t even know until I started exploring and learning about body odors, scents, bacteria and personal care overall.
Myth: Sweat Stinks
Fact: Sweat is actually ODORLESS! Yes you read that correctly! Those beads and threads of sweat rolling down your face and arms after an intense cardio or strength session, or your child’s face and body after school (oh that sweat….) is actually completely odorless! I know you don’t believe this, especially because you know better than anyone about the smell that hits you after your child has played volleyball, soccer or simply had a playdate at the park. Trust me when I tell you, sweat is salty liquid, and has no odor whatsoever.
So what is it that makes us smell? And do sweat and smell go together? Do we want one and not the other?
Myth: If we helped our kids by stopping them from sweating they will not smell
Fact: Absolutely NOT! Sweating is our body’s way of naturally cooling down and is important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The entire team at Ellie’s Earth are pro-sweat, however where we come in is to help with the smell.
1️⃣ Bacteria on our skin, when mixed with sweat, causes odor.
Especially in places like our underarms where it’s warm and cozy ☺ bacteria likes to thrive! Mix this friendly bacteria with sweat and you’ve got a recipe for some unpleasant funk. Best way to prevent this? Making sure we have conversations with our kids about the importance of strong personal care routines that include showering and applying all natural and effective deodorants
2️⃣ Diet and Lifestyle choices can sometimes attribute to unpleasant smells
Remember that delicious, garlicky chicken souvlaki you & the family had for dinner last night? Or those hot and spicy wings? Yes, pungent foods like garlic and spices can impact and contribute to us having unpleasant odors. We definitely do not want to stop eating those delicious meals, so make sure to apply (and if needed, reapply!) that natural deodorant.
3️⃣ Hormonal Changes
Puberty. It can be so complex and challenging both for parents and kids. Throw in those body odors and now you’re trying to have a meaningful conversation with your child but from 15 feet away! Open and honest conversations are key here, and encouraging our kids to embrace their changes and offering them personal care products that are designed for them may help to alleviate some of that angst. I have not yet met a 12 year old who felt ok pulling out their mom’s deodorant at volleyball practice ☺