Shaving, Not Shaving, and Why Everyone Has an Opinion About It
Leg hair, underarms, and what’s actually your choice
At some point, you might notice it: a few darker hairs on your legs, a little fuzz under your arms. It can feel like it appeared overnight, even though your body has actually been building up to this moment for a while. And almost immediately, something else shows up too: Opinions.
Suddenly, it feels like everyone has one. Friends might start talking about shaving. Someone in your family might mention it casually. You might see ads, videos, or posts that make it seem like there’s a “right” way to deal with body hair.
So let’s clear something up right away: There is no one right answer.
First: Why Do You Even Have Body Hair?
Body hair is a normal part of growing up. As your body goes through puberty, it starts producing hormones that signal different changes; like growing taller, developing curves, and yes, growing hair in new places.
This includes:
Legs
Underarms
Around the pubic area
Your body isn’t being random. It’s following instructions it’s designed to follow.
And everyone’s timeline is different. Some people notice body hair earlier, some later. Some have lighter, finer hair. Others have darker or thicker hair. All of that is completely normal. is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
So… Why Do People Shave?
Here’s where things get interesting. Shaving isn’t something your body needs. It’s something people choose to do—and that choice is often influenced by culture, trends, and personal preference.
Some people shave because:
They like how it feels (smooth skin can feel nice!)
They prefer the way it looks
It’s what they’re used to seeing around them
They feel more comfortable doing it
But here’s the important part:
None of those reasons mean you have to do it.
Why Do Some People Not Shave?
Just like some people choose to shave, others choose not to.
They might:
Like their natural body hair
Not want to deal with the time or effort
Feel more comfortable leaving it as is
Not see a reason to change something that’s already normal
And that’s just as valid.
So Why Does It Feel Like a Big Deal?
Because body hair is one of those topics that people have strong opinions about, even though it’s actually very personal.
You might hear things like:
“Everyone shaves.”
“It’s cleaner.”
“It looks better.”
But those are opinions, not rules.
Body hair is not dirty. It’s not wrong. It’s not something that needs to be “fixed.” What you’re really seeing is a mix of habits, trends, and expectations that have been passed around for a long time.
Let’s Talk About Pressure
Sometimes the hardest part isn’t the hair. It’s the feeling that you’re supposed to do something about it.
Maybe a friend starts shaving and you wonder if you should too.
Maybe someone makes a comment that sticks in your head.
Maybe you feel like you’re “behind” or “too early” compared to others.
That feeling? It’s very common. But here’s something worth remembering:
Just because someone else is doing something doesn’t mean it’s the right time—or the right choice—for you.
If You’re Curious About Shaving
It’s okay to be curious. If you’re thinking about shaving, a good first step is to talk to someone you trust—like a parent, older sibling, or another adult who can guide you safely. Shaving is something you learn, and doing it the right way matters. It’s not just about picking up a razor and figuring it out as you go. And also: you don’t have to rush into it. Being curious doesn’t mean you have to decide right away.
What About Hygiene?
This is where a lot of confusion happens.
Having body hair does not mean you’re less clean.
Hygiene is about:
Showering regularly
Washing your body properly
Wearing clean clothes
Using deodorant if you need it
Body hair doesn’t change any of that.
If You’d Rather Not Shave
That’s completely okay too.
You don’t need a reason.
You don’t need to explain it.
You don’t need to “wait until later.”
Choosing not to shave is just as normal as choosing to shave.
Your Body, Your Timeline, Your Choice
Growing up comes with a lot of “firsts.” And with each one, there can be a moment where it feels like you’re supposed to know exactly what to do.
But the truth is, you’re allowed to figure things out at your own pace.
Whether you decide to:
Shave
Not shave
Try it later
Change your mind
All of those choices are valid.
One Last Thing
You might notice that people don’t just have opinions—they sometimes share them loudly. That doesn’t mean they’re right. It just means they’re used to thinking a certain way.
Your job isn’t to follow every opinion you hear.
Your job is to:
Understand what’s happening in your body
Pay attention to what feels right for you
Make choices that match your comfort—not someone else’s expectations
Body hair is normal. Shaving is optional. And your choice is exactly that—yours.
You’re not behind. You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just growing—and learning what works for you along the way.
