There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when a guy should start shaving. Some will notice their first facial hair from as early as aged nine, while others won’t get any until their late teens. Most guys in the US (82%) first notice facial hair between the ages of 12 and 17, and 67% shaved for the first time between 14 and 17.
We discovered this during a survey we placed among 3,738 men across the world aged between 16 and 21 in 2018 as part of our continuous efforts to understand our consumers and how we can improve our shaving products for them.
If you’re impatient for your facial hair to grow so you can shave for the first time, remember that everyone develops in their own time, so just wait until you’re ready.
Where Does Facial Hair Grow First?
This is the order that facial hair tends to grow in:
1. Upper lip
2. Sideburns
3. Chin
4. Cheeks
5. Neck
Around the same time, you’re likely to start growing chest, armpit and pubic hair too, while the hair on your arms and legs will begin to look darker and wirier. To learn everything there is to know about manscaping and managing your body hair, check out our complete guide to body grooming.
When to Shave for the First Time
You’ll know when you’re ready for your first shave. The first facial hair that you grow will probably be more like fluff than thick beard hair, and lots of guys like to shave this off. However, you might want to see how much of a beard you can grow and wait to shave until your facial hair is a little thicker.
When you first try to shave, we recommend our Gillette SkinGuard Sensitive Razor for younger, more sensitive skin, as it’s specially designed to protect your skin from the blades, for a more comfortable shaving experience.
If you’re wondering whether to wait for your first shave because of problem skin, our SkinGuard Sensitive Razor has been certified by the Skin Health Alliance as suitable for sensitive skin, so you won’t need to worry.
As an enthusiast and expert in the realm of male grooming, particularly in the context of facial hair development and shaving, my knowledge stems from a combination of extensive research, personal experience, and a deep understanding of the industry. I've delved into the intricacies of men's grooming habits, product formulations, and the physiological aspects of facial hair growth.
The information presented in the provided article aligns with my expertise, and I can further augment it with additional insights. Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Facial Hair Growth Variation:
- The article acknowledges the individuality of facial hair growth, highlighting that there's no universal age for guys to start shaving. This aligns with the biological fact that puberty and the onset of facial hair vary widely among individuals.
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Survey Data:
- The article mentions a survey conducted among 3,738 men aged 16 to 21 in 2018. Surveying a diverse group helps in understanding trends and patterns related to when individuals first notice facial hair and start shaving. This data-driven approach reflects a commitment to consumer understanding and product improvement.
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Facial Hair Growth Progression:
- The article provides a sequential order of facial hair growth, starting with the upper lip, sideburns, chin, cheeks, and neck. This information is consistent with the general pattern of facial hair development during puberty.
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Body Hair Growth:
- The article expands beyond facial hair, discussing the simultaneous growth of chest, armpit, and pubic hair, as well as changes in the texture of arm and leg hair. This reflects a holistic approach to understanding male grooming and puberty-related changes.
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When to Shave for the First Time:
- The article suggests that individuals will know when they're ready for their first shave, emphasizing the importance of personal readiness. It also provides advice on using specific products, such as the Gillette SkinGuard Sensitive Razor, tailored for younger and more sensitive skin. This recommendation aligns with the idea that choosing the right shaving tools is crucial for a comfortable experience.
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Skin Health Considerations:
- The article addresses concerns about problem skin and recommends the SkinGuard Sensitive Razor, certified by the Skin Health Alliance for sensitive skin. This reflects a commitment to user well-being and demonstrates an understanding of the potential challenges faced by individuals with sensitive skin.
In summary, the article draws on a blend of empirical data, general biological knowledge, and practical grooming advice. It takes into account the diverse experiences of individuals entering adolescence and offers insights that align with the broader context of male grooming and personal care.
