I didn’t think I would be writing this blog post just yet, heck my daughter Livi is only 11. However if you follow along on my Instagram stories then you know all about how this daughter of mine recently tried shaving her legs and accidentally cut herself. Here is the short version- She sent me a text saying ” I’m sorry I tried to shave and cut myself, I didn’t think I needed your help but really I do”  first off I was super shocked, 1 I didn’t think this time was here yet and 2 I thought she felt comfortable talking to me about anything.

For the record before you go and start judging me you should know that Livi is VERY independent and has a hard time asking for help (I’m still trying to figure out where she gets these traits from ….. obvi me LOL)

This situation lead me to this blog post. I can’t honestly be the only mom wondering when is the right time? how do I teach my daughter? what products should I use ? From my experience there is really no right or wrong age for your daughter or young girl in your life to start shaving. I urge you to talk about it and show them how to do it before they start experimenting on their own.

Here’s some things to keep in mind when its time to talk about and practice shaving with your daughter.

Tip from Livi-

this is a new experience and may be uncomfortable for your daughter. Don’t make fun of her or laugh at her for wanting to shave her legs. Just be supportive and teach her how so she doesn’t get hurt.

 

I put together a lil shave party with livi and it was so fun we went over everything I’m about to share with you while sitting on the edge of our tub. Nothing fancy just a short how to, that gave me the chance to reopen the line of communication with Livi and remind her that I’m always here to help

Remind her shaving isn’t necessary-

But if your daughter wants to shave let her. There is no health reason to make her wait. There is also no health reason to shave either.  In fact the whole reason behind shaving is to make a girl feel better about herself. As moms/parents its crucial to make sure we are building up our daughters confidence. It’s also very very very very very important that they are well informed  about their bodies from us moms/parents and not getting information from friends or the internet.

Safety Tips

This is an exciting time for you and your daughter, stay positive and supportive.To prevent cuts and mistakes make sure to share a few shaving safety tips with her before she begins to shave.

  • Demonstrate how to hold a shaver properly
  • Single blade shavers are best for beginners, they are less likely to cause cuts.
  • Never touch the blades
  • Don’t share shavers with others
  • Toss shaver out after 5 or so uses

This post contains affiliate links click here to read more

  • Have a shave party and learn to shave for the first time

What you will need

  • Shavers- These are honestly personal preference here are a few to consider- One, Two, Three
  • Shaving Cream– I would recommend starting with a natural shaving cream to help prevent skin irritation. We have really liked this Aveeno shave gel .  However you may have to try a few before you find the one you like best.
  • Bandaids- cause cuts are bound to happen these Unicorn ones are super cute.
  • Learn to shave for the first time

How to Shave

This is what I call shave party time it’s gonna be a hands on learning experience. Put on a pair of shorts, grab your supplies and take a seat next to your daughter on the side of the tub.

  • Wet one leg from ankle to knee
  • Apply a thin layer of shaving gel
  • Wash hands
  • Take cap off Shaver
  • Mom/parent demonstrate how you hold the razor in your hand
  • Explain how you start at your ankle and bring the shaver upwards towards your knee. You’ll want to do the knee separate.
  • Mom/parent may want to do the first stroke up her leg so she can feel what the correct pressure should be. Gentle but firm pressure.
  • Rinse shaver between each stroke up the leg.
  • Continue shaving until all shaving cream is gone off your leg.

(The nice thing about using shaving cream is you can see where you have and haven’t shaven)

  • Mom/parent demonstrate how to carefully shave your knee with  your leg fully extended. This will prevent cuts.
  •  Rinse off leg and shaver.

Above the knee is not usually needed for young girls. If your daughter does have hair on her upper leg/thigh area then demonstrate the above steps for this area as well.

How to shave for the first time

Shaving takes a little practice to get it right so periodically check in with your daughter and make sure she doesnt need any more help. After a while she will get the hang of it.

Now if your a parent I give you permission to  Celebrate, drink a glass of wine and cry cause your baby is growing up. If your a tween go hug your parent and tell them it’s all gonna be ok !

 

Smile, 

Kayla