Starting to shave is a big deal. A real rite of passage into adulthood. Some teens will love the idea of growing up and starting a proper grooming routine. Others have zero interest and would rather spend more time in bed.
We know that it can be a tricky thing to navigate - for boys and parents! So, we’ve put together this how-to guide to help make their first shave a positive - and easy - experience.
When should teen boys start to shave?
There is no official age for a boy to start shaving. Some might notice facial hair as young as 9. Others will be baby-faced till well into their teens. But most will start to think of shaving between 12 and 15, as their bodies move into puberty.
If they’re showing interest in shaving, have the conversation with them and be ready to support and encourage them. They might need advice about choosing the right first razor and using it safely. And they’ll definitely need help learning how to shave.
Do the prep
A few simple steps before you start shaving will reduce irritation and up your chances of a great shave.
- Shave after a warm shower (or put a warm, damp flannel on your face for a minute or so before shaving) - wetting and warming your skin will soften the hairs and open the pores which will up your chances of a smoother shave.
- Apply a transparent shaving product while your face and neck are still damp - a good product will soften the hairs, reduce friction and protect your skin from nicks and cuts while you shave. And because it’s transparent, you’ll be able to see where you’ve shaved and avoid sensitive areas (like spots!) or going over an area twice, which can cause irritation.
- Massage it in - gently working it well into your face, chin, mouth and neck doesn’t just ensure you’ve got even coverage and even protection, it helps lift the hairs, so they’re easier to shave.
- Avoid shaving foam - Shaving removes some of the natural oils from your skin, so it’s important to use a product that contains ingredients that will moisturise and replace lost oils. Foaming formulas contain surfactants that will dry the skin and obscure your view, so stick to balms (like our NEW Gentle Shaving Balm), oils and moisturising gels.
- Use a sharp and clean razor - A blunt or clogged up razor will pull on the skin and hair and increase the chances of irritation and cuts.
How to shave
Correct shaving is something you have to learn, just like you learn how to cleanse or brush your teeth. Any shaving newbie will admit that it feels pretty weird to be running a blade over your face. So, you have to be shown how to do it - by an adult or an older sibling.
1. Start by using short, light strokes in the direction of the hair growth. This reduces tug and the chance of irritation and redness. Upper lip first, then the sides of your face and finally your neck.
2. Every couple of strokes, rinse the razor in warm water to stop it clogging with hair and gel/balm.
3. Don’t press too hard. But don’t be too gentle either. Let the razor do the work!
4. Shaving around your mouth and your neck is tricky. Learn to stretch your skin with your fingers to get these areas as flat as possible so the blade can work properly
5. Take your time! This is about being careful and getting it right, not rushing.
The Final steps
Almost there! Now rinse your face with cool water to wash off any product or hair (it also helps close your pores). If your skin is very sensitive, put a cool flannel on your face for a few minutes. Then gently pat dry with a clean towel (no dirty towels as these are full of bacteria which could lead to spots on a freshly shaven face).
If your skin needs it, massage in a little unscented moisturiser. Avoid fragranced products like aftershave (so old school!), which will dry and irritate shaved skin.
Rinse your razor and let it air dry, to protect the blade.
Remember, most teens don’t need to shave every day. And shaving when you don’t have enough hair can irritate the skin. Have a good look in the mirror before you start and leave it a couple of days, if you need to. Good luck!
Find out more about our revolutionary Happy Skin Gentle Shaving Balm here
