If you want to increase your chances of your agreeing to let you shave, try asking her right after you’ve done something that shows you’re responsible, such as offering to wash the dishes after a family meal or getting a “A” on an important test. You may want to ask her just before an event or occasion when shaving would make you feel more comfortable, such as a trip to the beach, or maybe wearing a dress to a special occasion. That may help your mother take the request more seriously.
The key is to convey how uncomfortable your hair makes you to your mother. Point out how dark or plentiful it is, and share if it makes you too uncomfortable to wear shorts, skirts, and swimsuits even in warm weather. If kids at school have teased you about your leg hair, tell your mother about the experience. That may make her more sympathetic to your situation. It usually helps to keep your plea simple. For example, you might say, “I feel really self-conscious when I have to wear shorts for gym class because the hair on my legs is so dark,” or “I’ve stopped going to the pool with my friends because I don’t want anyone to see me in a swimsuit with all the hair that I have on my legs. " When it comes to actually asking to shave, make it clear how it would help your situation. For example, you might say, “Shaving my legs would really help me feel more comfortable and confident. "
If you’re very anxious about getting an answer, you might ask your mother to schedule a specific time to finish the conversation. For example, you might say, “Can you let me know this weekend?” Don’t ask your mother about shaving or hint at the topic at all in the meantime. Respect your mother’s need to consider the topic carefully without you bugging her about it.
It’s completely normal to feel frustrated, angry, or upset if your mother won’t allow you to shave. Instead of yelling at her, though, vent to your friends. If she says no, you might say, “I wish you would let me shave, but I understand how you feel. Thank you for considering the idea. " She’ll appreciate the fact that you’re respectful and mature.
If your mother does agree to a compromise, don’t push the issue and try to ask for more. Be grateful for whatever amount of shaving or hair removal that she’s allowing.
It can be difficult to wait, but give your mom at least a month or two before you ask about shaving again.
Disposable razors are the least expensive, and usually offer a pretty close shave. However, they’re the most likely to nick you so you need to be extremely careful when you use them. Reusable razors with blades that can be replaced are usually sturdier than disposable razors, but can offer just as close a shave, or slightly better. The initial cost of a reusable option is usually higher than disposable, but in the long run, you can actually wind up saving money. They’re also better for the environment than disposable razors. Electric razors are more expensive than disposal razors, but they’re less likely to cause cuts or nicks when you’re using them. Keep in mind that they don’t provide the closest shave, though. If you choose to go with disposal razors, you’ll also need a shaving cream or gel to help lubricate the skin when you’re shaving. Be sure to choose an alcohol-free formula because it’ll be less likely to irritate your skin.
It’s usually best to shave in the shower or bath because the warm water help soften your skin, so it’s easier to glide the razor over your legs without cutting yourself. You’re less likely to get razor burn or other skin irritations if you shave in the direction of your hair growth. While it helps to have your mom to a demo, it’s okay if you want some privacy when it comes time to actually shave. Just be honest with your mother, and tell her you’ll check in with her when you’re done.
If you have light, thin hair, you may only need to shave once a week. For dark, coarse hair, you may want to shave twice a week. Keep in mind that hair grows faster as you get older. That means that you don’t necessarily need to shave several times a week just because your mother does. Don’t forget to change your razor (or blade) either. If the blade is dull, you’ll be more likely to cut yourself. You can usually get five to ten shaves out of a single razor.
