Are you aware of shaving? Let's talk about it!

Hair can sometimes seem like a big problem, right? When it's on your head, it's a very beautiful and valuable thing. But when hair grows in certain parts of your body, for example, your armpits, your legs, or in boys' faces, some people are tempted to remove it, that is, shave it. Although they don't think much about it when they are young, many people become interested in it when they get a little older, especially when they reach a young age. Just as girls start shaving their armpits and legs, boys also start shaving their faces when they grow a beard.

Why do we shave? Is this really necessary?

Think about it, this is a bit complicated. Because for some people, hair on their heads and other parts of their bodies is very normal. But for some, especially girls, having hair in their armpits or legs can be a bit uncomfortable. With some social beliefs, or when thinking about their own cleanliness and beauty, some people like to remove hair in this way.

Similarly, some men grow beards, while others shave every day. That's their choice. Some athletes, for example, swimmers, shave their entire bodies. It helps them move faster in the water. So, whether or not to shave is often a matter of personal preference, how you feel, and sometimes the opinions of those around you. It's not necessarily something you have to do.

What is the best age to start shaving?

This is a bit of a difficult question to answer because it varies from person to person. It depends on whether you have enough hair to shave, whether you find that hair a problem, and whether your parents like you to shave.

Usually, body hair starts to grow during puberty. Girls can start to grow hair in their armpits and legs between the ages of 10 and 14. Boys also start to grow a small bump on their face around the same age, which later grows into a thick beard. So, if you think you want to shave, the best thing to do is to talk to your parents about it first. Tell them why you want to do this. It is very important to get their opinion and help them with this.

How exactly does this shaving work?

Simply put, shaving means using a razor to cut and remove the hair close to the skin. Imagine that there is a hair, and its root is located under the skin in a place called the ``Hair follicle``. When we shave, the part of this hair that is visible above the skin, that is, the ``Hair shaft``, is cut. Since the root is still there, the hair grows back on top in a few days. The time your skin remains smooth can be from one to three days. After that, small hairs come up again.

What are the benefits of shaving?

There are several benefits to shaving.

• Low cost: Compared to other methods, shaving is relatively inexpensive. All you need is a good razor, some hot water, soap, and shaving foam or shaving gel.
• You can do it at home: No need to go to the salon. You can do it at home at your convenience.
• Quick: Can be done faster than some other methods.
• If you use an ``Electric razor``: An ``Electric razor`` is easier to use than a regular razor, and there is less chance of cutting your skin. However, they are a bit more expensive.

So, aren't there any messy aspects to shaving?

Yes, as good as it is, shaving does have its downsides and risks. It's important to be aware of those as well.

Minor skin problems that can occur

A razor is a very sharp thing. It's like a knife. So, if you don't know how to use it properly, especially if you're new to using it, there's a high chance of cutting yourself.

• Nicks and cuts: They can range from a minor scrape to a more serious injury.
• Razor burn: Razor burn is when the skin becomes red and feels like it is burning after shaving. This can be very uncomfortable.
• Bumps: Sometimes small pimple-like bumps can appear in areas where you have shaved.
• Skin infections: If the cut is not kept clean, germs can easily enter and cause infections. This can cause swelling, pain, and even pus to form.

The most important thing: Keeping your skin clean before and after you shave and using the right equipment will help save you from a lot of trouble.

The problem of ``(Ingrown hairs)``

This is something that needs to be discussed in more detail. ``Ingrown hairs`` are when a hair grows back into the skin instead of coming out. Simply put, the hair grows back into the skin instead of coming out.

What happens then?

• It's like a little blister coming up there.
• Sometimes it gets red and swollen.
• It's starting to hurt a lot.
• Sometimes pus can collect inside.

The main reason for this `(Ingrown hairs)` problem is shaving incorrectly, or the nature of some people's hair shafts. If this happens, it can be a bit of a hassle. Therefore, it is important to know how to shave properly.

Also, shaving only removes hair temporarily. When the hair grows back, it is usually very coarse and stubbly. This can be uncomfortable for some people.

If you're thinking about starting to shave, keep these things in mind!

Okay, if you think now is the time to start shaving, then keep these things in mind.

1. Talk to your parents: This is the most important first step. It's best to ask your mom or dad, get their input, and get their help on this. Maybe they can teach you how to shave properly, or help you choose a razor that's right for you.

2. Explore other methods: There are other ways to remove hair besides shaving. For example, waxing, using hair removal creams, or laser hair removal, which permanently removes hair. However, not all of these are suitable for everyone, and the costs vary. So, before shaving, it's a good idea to explore these other methods and decide what works best for you.

How to shave safely?

If you decide to shave, you can reduce the risks by following these steps:

• Choose a good razor: Use a razor with a new, sharp blade. Dull blades are more likely to cause skin irritation. If possible, choose a multi-blade razor.
• Moisturize your skin: Before shaving, soak the area in warm or lukewarm water for a few minutes. This will soften the hairs and make it easier to shave. It's best to shave while you're in the shower or after you've finished showering.
• Use a shaving cream or gel: Instead of soap, use a cream, foam, or gel specifically designed for shaving. These help the razor glide over the skin more easily and prevent drying out.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth: First, shave in the direction of hair growth (along the grain). Then, only if necessary, slowly shave against the grain. If you shave against the grain all at once, you are more likely to get razor burn and ingrown hairs.
• Go slowly and carefully: Don't rush. Pull the razor slowly and gently. Don't force the razor too hard.
• Wash your razor regularly: While shaving, rinse your razor frequently with water to remove hair and cream that gets stuck between the blades.
• After shaving: Rinse the area with lukewarm water and gently pat dry with a clean towel. Do not rub.
• Apply a moisturizer: After shaving, your skin can become dry. Therefore, applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help soothe your skin.

Take-Home Message

Okay, so here are some things we've talked about that I think will be important to you:

• Shaving is a personal decision. It's not something everyone should do.
• If you're thinking about starting to shave, it's very important to talk to your parents first .
• There are pros and cons to shaving. Be aware of things like razor burn, cuts, and ingrown hairs.
• Learning how to shave safely can help reduce many skin problems .
• In addition to shaving, look into other hair removal methods .

Remember, your body is yours. When making decisions about it, it's important to prioritize what feels right to you and what's comfortable for you. Think twice before doing something because of pressure or because others are doing it.

If you have any more questions about this, you can ask a trusted adult or a doctor.

Shaving, Hair Removal, Skin Problems, Young People, Shaving, Safe Shaving, (Ingrown Hairs), (Razor Burn)