Hey, guys. Have you noticed little copper wires sprouting from your chin and upper lip? And girls, do your legs have the look and feel of a Chia Pet? If affirmative, it might be time to consider another adolescent milestone: shaving.
Shaving is a personal preference. Beards, goatees and mustaches can be a defining characteristic for guys. And girls don’t have to shave their legs and underarms: Look at European women and Paula Cole. But for many, shaving is a rite of passage. According to the folks at The Gillette Co., makers of shaving products, most females begin shaving at 11 to 13, and most males at 14 or 15.
To avoid making shaving a totally hair-raising experience, first-timers need to know the basics.
First, before picking up a razor, talk with an experienced shaver – whether it’s Mom, Dad or an older sibling. You’ll want common-sense advice – and your folks’ permission. Then, decide what type of shaving method to use. For a wet shave, you’ll use a razor, shaving cream or gel, or lathered soap and water. A dry shave is done with an electric razor. It’s a personal choice. (Just remember that an electric razor generally doesn’t shave as close as a razor blade.) What your folks use might influence you, but don’t borrow a shaving implement; buy your own.
Most shaving products are color-coded. Guys get the black, gray and dark blue tones. Girls’ products are pastels (light blues, greens and pink). But don’t be afraid to cross gender lines. Use what works best for you. Also, you can buy separate razors and blades, but we figure it’s not a bad idea to start with disposable razors – they’re already put together, and they’re easy to use.
Remember the kindergarten mantras “don’t run with scissors” and “be careful with sharp objects”? The same holds true for razor blades. Yes, razor blades are sharp, and they can make nasty cuts if not handled properly – and that goes for the blades in disposable razors.
For your first try shaving, carve out a block of time where you won’t be distracted or rushed. In other words, don’t try your first shave five minutes before heading to the bus stop.
Depending on how fast your hair grows, only you can decide whether this should be a daily ritual. Guys may notice that they need to shave the hair on the upper lip every day, but can hold off on shaving other facial areas. Girls probably won’t need to shave their legs and underarms every day. Girls also need to consider how much of their leg they want to shave. Many girls shave to just above the knee; others shave to the bikini line.
Before you part with that peach fuzz, it’s time to part with a few myths: First, forget the notion that shaving causes hair to grow back thicker, darker and coarser. Once the area has been shaved and the hair shafts start to emerge, they appear coarse and bristly. If the hair is allowed to grow out, it will take on its original appearance. Also, tans cannot be removed by shaving.
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NEXT WEEK: Handy how-to guides for guys and girls to cut out, paste up
