When Can I Shave My Legs or Armpits?

Kids who are starting to go through puberty may notice new hair on their legs or in their armpits, especially if it's thick or dark in color. Some may want to shave it and others may not be bothered by it. If your leg or armpit hair is bothering you, talk with your parents about shaving so they can get you the supplies you need.

Before you start, you’ll need a lesson in shaving. Ask a parent, an older relative, or a friend to show you how. You can also watch videos online for preteens or teens that show how to shave. If you don’t know how to use a razor, you could accidentally cut yourself — ouch!

How Can I Shave My Legs and Armpits Safely?

There are two main kinds of shaving razors: electric and standard razors. Electric razors are easier to use and not as likely to cut your skin. When using a standard razor, follow these safety tips:

• Splash your skin with warm water. This will open your pores (tiny holes in your skin) and make shaving easier.
• Put shaving cream or gel on the area you want to shave to protect your skin.
• Shave in the direction your hair grows by using long, slow, and steady strokes to lower the chance of hurting yourself. If you cut (or nick) yourself, try to stop the bleeding right away by pressing a clean tissue or cloth on the spot.
• Rinse your razor after each stroke.
• Use warm water to rinse your skin when you’re done. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, and put a moisturizer (say: MOYS-che-rize-er), like a lotion or cream, on your legs.
• Wash your razor after you use it, and keep it somewhere dry. If you use razor blades that are disposable (say: di-SPO-zi-bul), which means used a few times then thrown away, shave with them only five to seven times.