Some deodorants contain antiperspirants, which also prevent sweating. A regular deodorant without an antiperspirant will not prevent sweating, but will prevent odor. Your hair may become more oily as well, so you may have to wash it more often than you used to.
Acne medications that contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid as active ingredients tend to be very effective. Everyone’s skin is different, so try a few different products until you find one that works for you. Be aware that acne medications may dry your skin out, so you may need to apply a moisturizer as well. Always use an oil-free moisturizer on your face, especially if you have acne. Oily moisturizers can cause more breakouts. Moisturizers that contain sunscreen will help protect you from sun damage as well. Popping pimples and picking at your skin can make your acne problem worse, so avoid doing this. Try to avoid touching your face or letting your hair come in contact with your face, as this can transfer oil to your skin and cause breakouts. If you have serious acne that does not get better with over-the-counter treatments, consider seeing a dermatologist.
It may help you feel more confident about your body if you wear clothes that fit you. Ask your parents/guardians if you can buy some new clothes (even if it’s just a few things) if you notice that your old clothes don’t fit that great anymore. Keep in mind that you may continue growing and changing for a while. You may also feel like your feet are awkwardly large at this stage in your life. This is because feet often grow before the rest of the body. Know that you will not feel clumsy for long and the rest of your body will catch up to your feet. [4] X Research source
You may also feel uncomfortable in your body during this time. Try to remember that all of these changes are normal. You may also feel unusually tired at times, so let yourself get some rest. If this becomes severe, be sure to mention it to your doctor. [6] X Research source It usually helps to talk to someone about your emotions, whether it is a trusted friend or an adult. You may need a little support during this time in your life, so don’t be afraid to seek it out. [7] X Research source One way to improve your self-esteem during this difficult stage in life is to commit yourself to doing something you love. Whether you are talented at singing, painting, or playing baseball, these activities will give you a great boost of confidence. [8] X Research source If these emotions are interfering with your everyday life or causing you to feel very distressed, seek professional counseling. Talking to a professional can help you learn how to deal with these emotions in a healthier way. Exercising can help you cope with the anxiety that you may experience as a result of all of the changes that are happening during puberty. Exercising releases chemicals in your brain that are known to improve your mood, so find some kind of physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s swimming, dancing, or playing a team sport. [9] X Research source
Puberty usually starts between the ages of 8 and 13 for females. Puberty usually starts between the ages of 9 and 15 for males.
If you do decide to have sex, understand how important it is to protect yourself from pregnancy and from Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). The best way to protect yourself is by always using a condom, although this is not 100% effective either. Oral sex can cause the transmission of STDs as well, so it is still important to practice safe sex. Use a dental dam, plastic wrap, or a condom that is cut open into a square when performing oral sex to someone with a vulva (area outside the vagina) or anus. [12] X Research source Use a condom when performing oral sex on a penis. [13] X Research source You can find condoms and items like plastic wrap at grocery stores or pharmacies; you may need to go to a clinic like Planned Parenthood or try a dental supply store to find a dental dam. [14] X Research source Never let anyone pressure you into having sex if you are not ready. This is a personal decision that no one can make for you.
You might consider educating yourself on LGBTQ terminology. It’s also crucial to understand the distinction between gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as to recognize that everyone has a sexual orientation that is distinct from their gender identity. Remember that everyone’s life experience is unique. If you have feelings of attraction for someone, accept those feelings for what they are. You are not required to come out to anyone if you do not wish to. However, if you trust them, it’s a good idea to talk to someone (a friend, relative, or sibling) about how you’re feeling.
You can talk to your friends about these issues as well, but remember that they are just as confused as you are, so don’t rely on them for advice. If you have been seeing a pediatrician who is not the same gender or sex as you and you do not feel comfortable talking to them about puberty, ask your parents/guardian if you can see a new doctor.
A manual razor is the easiest way to shave. There are many different types available, but all of them should be used with some kind of lubricant, such as shaving gel or soap. You will need to be careful while shaving to avoid nicking your skin. You can also use an electric razor if you prefer. Waxing your legs, underarms, and bikini area is also an option. This may be painful, but it will last for longer than shaving. There are also chemicals that you can buy at drug stores to remove hair at home without the use of a razor.
You may need a different kind of bra that offers more support for sports. It’s very important that your bra fits correctly. If you need help with this, most department stores have bra-fitting experts on staff, so just ask. Don’t be concerned if one breast starts growing faster than the other. They will eventually even out, although most people’s breasts are not exactly identical to one another. [20] X Research source
It’s a good idea to keep a clean pair of underwear and a sanitary napkin in your backpack in case you get your first period at school. Most people with vaginas get their first periods around the age of 12, but it is perfectly normal for it to happen anywhere between the ages of 8 and 16. Getting your first period means that you will be able to have a baby. If your egg does not meet up with sperm from someone with a penis, then you get your period each month. About one cup of blood will come out of your vagina over the course of about 3-7 days. Don’t be alarmed if your first few periods are a brown color instead of red. This is perfectly normal. It is also normal for your periods to be irregular at first, but they will become more regular as you get older. [22] X Research source Be sure to change your pad or tampon regularly (at least once every four hours). Tampons can cause a serious medical condition called Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if they are not changed within 8 hours. In addition to your period, you may also notice that you occasionally have a clear or white discharge in your underwear. This can happen before your first period and will continue after you have your period as well. Vaginal discharge is caused by changing hormones in your body, and actually helps keep the vagina healthy.
Dieting during puberty to prevent normal weight gain is very unhealthy! Even though you may feel uncomfortable with the changes that are happening to your body, it is important to let them happen.
For most males, this happens between the ages of 11 and 14.
An electric razor with a flexible head is convenient and effective, although it may not offer the closest shave. You can also shave with a manual razor, but you will need to be more careful not to cut yourself. Always use a shaving cream or gel with this type of razor to prevent irritation. You will also see hair begin to appear under your arms and around your groin. The hair on your arms, legs, and other areas of your body will become thicker and heavier. You can leave this hair alone if you want, or, if your body hair bothers you, you can choose to wax or shave it.
Erections can happen at any time, whether you are sexually aroused or not. Try not to be too embarrassed if you get an erection in front of other people. They are not nearly as likely to notice it as you may think. [27] X Research source If you want to get rid of an erection, stop thinking about it. Instead, try focusing your attention on a boring and repetitive task, like saying the alphabet backward. [28] X Research source
Ejaculations can happen at any time that you have an erection, whether you are sexually aroused or not. Some people with penises experience nocturnal emissions, more commonly known as “wet dreams. " This is when you get an erection while you are sleeping and ejaculate before waking up. Even though it doesn’t happen to all people, it is a perfectly normal stage of development, and it will stop happening as you get older. [31] X Research source
