The Teenager’s Guide to Facial Hair: Should You Keep Shaving or Let It Grow?

As a 17-year-old, you may find yourself with sideburns, a mustache, and a chin beard, but without a full cheek beard or a neck beard. Should you keep shaving, or just let it grow? This dilemma is a common one among teenagers exploring their facial hair options. Let’s dive into the world of teenage beard growth and explore the best approach for you.

Testing the Waters: Shaving vs. Growing Out Your Beard

If you're torn about whether to keep shaving or let your beard grow, consider this strategy:

Shave regularly for the next year or so. After a year, let your beard grow out for a month or so. Assess how it looks: if it looks good, keep it. If not, consider another year of shaving before trying again. Remember, your beard may not fully develop until you're 20 or 21, so patience is key.

Patience Is Key: Keep the Baby Face for a While

Many teenagers struggle with the decision, but the truth is, you're just a 17-year-old teenager. It’s important to keep the baby face for a while longer. Nobody can tell you when you'll grow a full beard, so be patient. Growth and development vary from person to person, and rushing the process isn't always necessary.

Personal Experience: A Bearded Journey

Recalling my own experience, I remember having a mustache, but my cheek beard looked scraggly with blotches of empty skin after not shaving for an entire summer. As a result, I kept the mustache and shaved the rest. Years later, I was able to grow a goatee and a full beard. The journey was long, but it led to a much cooler look for me. However, in my early years, the mustache became my defining feature.

Embrace Your Natural Look: Shaving

If you're not a fan of the current state of your facial hair, don't hesitate to shave it all off. This can be a refreshing and bold choice. You'll look better, and with the rest of your life ahead, you have plenty of time to experiment with different styles. Whether you choose to grow a beard or keep a clean-shaven face, the key is to make yourself happy.

Your Beard Journey Is Unique

Ultimately, whether you shave or let your beard grow is a personal decision. You may find that your beard growth improves as you continue to mature. In a couple of years, you might be able to have a full beard, but not all guys can grow full beards. Ask your dad, grandfather, or other older male relatives if they can grow full beards. Their experiences can offer valuable insights.

Sideburns: A Style Choice

Most importantly, consider retaining your sideburns. I prefer a beard that covers the chin and mustache, but the choice is ultimately yours. Make yourself happy, or consult a trusted friend for advice.

Remember, the teenage years are about finding yourself and experimenting. Shaving, growing a beard, or finding a balance between the two can be a fantastic way to explore your identity and express yourself confidently. So, take your time, be patient, and enjoy the journey of discovering what works best for you!