A Casual Take on Shaving and Beauty Standards

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So, the other day, I came across this piece in a parenting column where a mom was grappling with whether her 11-year-old daughter should start shaving her legs. I totally get the struggle—it’s hard to pinpoint the right moment for these kinds of things. The mom mentioned that she couldn’t recall when she began shaving, and honestly, that just shows how personal this decision can be.

The column’s advice was to let the daughter shave if she feels self-conscious about her leg hair. Sure, that may sound reasonable, but it’s a little old-fashioned, right? I mean, suggesting a “mother-daughter shaving session” feels like something out of a 90s teen movie. Like, what’s next? A day out for matching hairstyles?

Challenging Beauty Norms

Let’s be real: while parents are quick to challenge gender stereotypes in other areas—like saying girls can totally be engineers or that not all girls love pink—beauty norms often go unchecked. There’s this assumption that starting to shave is just a fun rite of passage, kind of like a spa day. But it’s more than that.

Shaving takes time and money—something that the beauty industry is more than happy to cash in on. For instance, Gillette has a whole section dedicated to helping tweens with shaving. Can you believe that? It’s like they’re just waiting to market to the next generation of girls, creating insecurities along the way.

The Double Standard

It’s also important for young girls to realize that once they start shaving, it’s not easy to stop. Imagine being in the shower, frantically trying to get ready for a big event while the guys around you have time to chill and play games. This double standard is real, and it affects girls in ways that they might not fully grasp at 11.

Now, I’m not saying we should completely ban shaving or makeup; kids need to navigate their social circles, and sometimes that means conforming a bit. But it’s crucial to talk about how boys aren’t expected to do these things. Ignoring the double standard feels like a missed opportunity for parents to open up a valuable conversation with their kids.

Ongoing Dialogue

This is an ongoing dialogue that should include both daughters and sons. It’s essential as they grow up to understand that beauty standards can be challenging.

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Conclusion

In summary, while it’s common for young girls to feel pressure to conform to beauty standards like shaving, it’s crucial for parents to discuss the implications of these choices. It’s not just about whether to shave; it’s about understanding the societal expectations and the ongoing conversation around gender norms.