Most males don’t have enough hair on their face to shave until later in puberty, usually between 14 and 17. But some may be ready to start shaving younger than that. It depends on when your facial hair starts coming in, and how much of it you have.

And some grown men never get much facial hair and never need to shave. And of course, some don’t shave because they choose to have a beard.

When you think you’re ready to start shaving your face, ask your parents or another adult for tips. You can also watch videos online for preteens or teens that show you how to shave.

How Can I Shave Safely?

There are two main kinds of shaving razors: electric and standard razors. Electric razors are simpler to use and less likely to cut your skin. To stay safe when using a standard razor, keep these tips in mind:

• Get your skin wet with warm water, which will open your skin’s pores (tiny holes) and make shaving easier.
• Cover the area you want to shave with a shaving cream or gel to protect your skin.
• Shave in the direction your hair is growing using short, slow strokes to lower the risk of hurting yourself. Be extra gentle if you have acne because shaving can worsen it. If you get a cut or nick when shaving, press a clean tissue or cloth on the spot right away to try to stop the bleeding.
• Rinse off your razor after each stroke.
• Use warm water to rinse your face and neck when you’re finished.
• Make sure to wash your razor after each use, and keep it in a dry place. If you use disposable (say: di-SPO-zi-bul) razor blades — used a few times then thrown away — shave with them just five to seven times.