Teen Boys' Health

Shaving Tips for Teen Guys

Shaving Tip 3: Avoid Cuts continued...

Despite what you might have heard, shaving daily does not make the hair grow back thicker. But if you have ultrasensitive skin, you might be prone to folliculitis, a bacterial infection, or irritation from the shaving process. This can lead to scarring, so use caution.

Unless you have very thick facial hair, you don’t have to shave every day when you first start shaving. Try to shave the darker hairs that are starting to come in, and wait for the full-face shave. There will be plenty of time for daily shaving when you’re an older teen or young adult.

As you get older, your hair will start to come in much faster, requiring you to shave frequently. Guys who get thick stubble, producing a "shadow" of newer hair growth, often prefer shaving more than once a day.

Remember, everyone is different. Genetics play a big role in how much hair you have. You may know some guys who barely have any facial hair. Maybe they have what’s called “peach fuzz," or light, fine hair all over their face. Likewise, there are many teens who can grow a full beard early in their high school years.

If you do have excess body hair on your back or other areas that you want to get rid of, talk to your health care provider. There are processes such as waxing that can remove unwanted hair.