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Results for 10/25/2004 to 11/01/2004
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Last week, Kate, 12 said:
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"Hairy legs!
I've got really hairy legs, but I'm only 12 so my mum won't let me shave them off. They're really long and I'm dark-haired so they're dark. I feel really embarrassed wearing skirts because of my fuzzy legs and it's a real shame 'cause I'm slender. Are there any solutions to this or any products? Because my mum is adamant about not letting me shave!"
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Do you need advice on an issue? Other SmartGirls can
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377 SmartGirls replied:
| 17% |
Ask your mom if she would let you try another method like waxing, a hair removal cream, or a hair bleaching process. If she agrees, make sure to do a test on a small area of skin to ensure that the product is safe for you to use. |
| 5% |
Find out why your mom refuses to let you begin shaving and do some research to counter her arguments. Gather evidence for your position on the internet, in books/magazines, and by talking to other people. Make sure, however, that your sources are reliable and aren't just trying to sell you something. |
| 30% |
Talk to your mom about how you feel and tell her that you need her help. Explain that you don't just want to shave because all of your friends are doing it, but because the hair on your legs is making you self-conscious. If she's still reluctant, suggest that she take you to see (or just call) a dermatologist for a professional opinion. |
| 5% |
Just stick to wearing pants or dark tights for now and wait until your mom says it's ok for you to start shaving. Shaving can be an annoying and painful process, one that generally has to be repeated at least several times a week. So don't be too eager to begin before it's absolutely necessary. |
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43% gave other responses. Some SmartGirls said:
Ask your mom if she could provide anyother hair removal ideas. If she says no, then don't go behind her back. I did once, and shaved my legs then broke out in a rash because I hadn't done it right. Trust me, mom's know best when comes to when you should and shouldn't shave. I don't shave, instead I wax and use a hair removing lotion. They may take longer, and the waxing hurts, but the effects last for nearly 2 weeks. Shaving everyday is the only way to make your legs not look hairy. If you're shy about wearing shorts in gym class, wear baggy cloth pants instead. You may be mad your mom for saying that you are too young. I waited until i was 13 to start waxing my legs, and I don't regret waiting. I was a lot more mature and prepeared for it when i went to the spa to have it done. Don't worry about what people think about you. Talk to your mom about it when it is only you two at home, or when you are with her in your car. She may understand how you feel, but if she doesn't know, then she can help you find another method. ~MEL He ya!! I'm in exactly the same position as you. It's sometimes irritating having dark isn't it?! I just have to cope. My mom won't let me shave so I just wear trousers. As much as I try to be confident in what I look like, I will never be completely happy. Trousers and jeans can look awesome! Just think of the impression you make when you do wear a skirt, all the lads will be after you and your new look. If you are more confident than me, then just go out there! Wear what you want and love yourself for it. I know this isn't the most helpful advice but it's the best I can give. Good luck. lv quinnno1fan Arrange a time to sit down and talk to your mom about how you feel. Tell her why you feel this way, and try and work out a solution to the problem so that you are both happy. Do not yell or raise your voice or anything like that, just talk to her and try and work out why she doesn't want to let you shave. She will respect you for this and might let you shave. But just remember that waxing may be better, as your legs don't get all prickly and you don't have to wax as often as you do shaving. It's ok to have hairy legs at this age. It's nothing to be ashamed of, and many girls go through the same problem you have. Just if you want to wear a skirt, wear dark tights. This will pass, and soon will be yesterdays news. And your mom is right to not let you shave. It will make the hair on your legs grow faster every time you shave. Just wait. Hi Kate. Don't worry too much - all of us have to cope with unwanted body hair at some point. Try talking seriously and maturely to your mum. Sit her down and explain how much this is depressing you. If you handle the situation like a mature adult, and don't throw a strop to get your own way, she'll soon realise you're grown up enough to start shaving. If not, suggest a compromise. You could use hair removing cream, waxing or hair bleaching? But the quickest, cheapest, easiest method is definitely shaving - even if it is a bit of a pain when the hair grows back so quickly.
Thanks to all of you that gave your advice! Please give your
advice for this week's issue.
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