Beauty Nostalgia: 5 Women Share Their First Deodorant Memories

Using deodorant always felt like a rite of passage, like swapping a training bra for underwire or stashing tampons in your bag. It was a welcome one, too, since deodorants not only smell good, but some types, such as antiperspirant, also keep your underarms fresh and dry all day—win-win. And for many, when it was time to pick up your first stick, there was no better person to turn to for guidance than mom, who always seems to know what’s best.

That’s why we teamed up with Dove, beloved for its nourishing formulas and skin-protective ingredients, to bring you Bustle staffers’ first memories of deodorant and what it means to them. Not only are Dove’s deodorants designed to be gentle on your underarms, but the brand also has a wide range to fit every need and preference. Do you sweat even in the dead of winter? Try Clinical Protection Antiperspirant. Want to even out your underarm skin tone? Go for the Even Tone range. When you’re starting your personal-hygiene routine—and one that’ll stick with you for life—it’s always good to know that you’ve got options.

Shyema, Senior Beauty Editor, Branded

“I was always in a rush to grow up, and I couldn't wait until I was allowed to wear makeup, come up with a skin-care routine, and purchase personal hygiene products, including deodorant. To me, they were a marker that I'm mature enough to hang out with the older girls. When it came time to start using deodorant, I meticulously went through the drugstore aisle, sniffing each one to figure out if I want to smell 'shower clean' or like a floral bouquet. (I settled on a clean-scented, clear deodorant.) It's so funny thinking about it now, but I would proudly display it on my dresser as if I was showing everyone, look, I smell amazing.”

Adrienne, Director of Experiential

“As the youngest of four girls, I always wanted to be exactly like my older sisters, including using all of the same products that they did. I remember butchering my legs trying to shave at the age of nine and looking like a clown with their makeup, but also feeling so fresh and grown-up using their deodorant. Now that I'm a mom of a daughter who doesn't have an older sister to show her the ropes, I plan to teach her all about my favorite beauty tips and beauty products—including my beloved Dove deodorant.”

Natalie, Client Experience Associate

“Thinking about my first memories of deodorant brings me back to my middle-school bathroom, where my friends and I would be cracking jokes as well as having deep conversations. The bathroom became our safe space, where we had our first conversations about puberty and the body changes that come with it, such as body odor—which, naturally, is how I first learned about deodorant.”

Lexi, Senior Beauty Director, Branded

“I've been into personal care rituals since I can remember. When I was little, I'd fixate on my mom's routines and try to replicate them on myself. I remember moisturizing with her lotion, pretend-shaving with a fake razor, and taking salt bath soaks with candles like she did. I loved it all. I'd sneak her deodorant on, too, and would revel in the fresh smell. I remember the Dove stick having such a clean aroma, and I couldn't wait until I was old enough to have my own and be officially allowed to wear it—and not have to snatch it from her medicine cabinet when she wasn't looking.”

Irma, Associate Beauty Director, Branded

“My sister is six years older than me so growing up I copied her every move. I would steal her makeup, clothes, and even personal hygiene products (she was not happy with me back in the day). I first discovered deodorant in her beauty bag and would sneak into her room after she’d leave the house to put it on. I remember feeling so fresh and like an adult. It didn’t take long for me to start begging my mom for my own.”