Hair removal / shaving (boys)

AKA:

Removing unwanted hair using a razor.

When should I start?

When you're ready or find that your facial hair is getting in the way, annoying you, or doesn't look the way you'd like. Remember, everyone's hair grows at a different rate.Some have full beards aged 12. Others only a full wisps for life.

Men aged 18-24 shave on average four times a week

Where should I shave?

Most men shave the hair on their lower face. Some shave body hair, too. This may be for cultural reasons or because they compete in sports that need them to be streamlined. Some just prefer the smooth look.

How to do it?

Most men wet shave. This means using a manual razor and lubricating with foam.

Alternatively you can dry shave with an electric razor a method that is technically easier, but expensive. And some find the result not as smooth as wet shaving. Plus electric razors have a habit of causing razor burn or bumps.

Step by step guide

• Wet your face with warm water
• Rub in plenty of shaving foam
• Hold the razor firmly (but gently) against your skin
• Scrape the skin, moving in the direction of hair growth
• Rinse (your face and the razor) with cold water
• Pat dry

How to tell what direction your hairs are growing

Hairs seem to grow at different angles in different areas of our face.

Move your fingers across your skin back and forth

In one direction, there is more resistance

This direction is the WRONG way to shave

Shaving problems

Cuts/nicks
Razor burn
Spots/ingrowing hairs
All three can be avoided by using

• Clean razors
• Plenty of foam
• Good technique

Plus there are many products available to cool/soothe skin after shaving

Shaving facts

The average shave lasts 3.5 minutes

84% of men shave at the sink. 15% shave in the bath/shower.

Men aged 18-24 shave on average four times a week

90% of men say they prefer to be clean-shaven

Shaving myths: all total bull

Shaving will speed up/slow down how fast our hairs grow

Shaving makes your hair thicker

The more you need to shave the more of a man you are

Further help and advice

http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/shaving.html

Written by Dr Melissa Sayer

Last updated 17th June 2007

  Previous article  |  Next article