Skin Care Tip & Info - Grooming for Teen Boys

Tips fo Keeping Your Son Scrubbed Clean

Advice Seeker: Dear April,

I am a single mom with a 13-year-old boy. He is just starting to grow up and I think his hormones are kicking in. I've started buying him deodorant and subtly leaving it on his dresser, but I'm not sure what else I should be telling him. I dread the uncomfortable conversation that we might need to have about hygiene but I don't want him to be uninformed either. Do you have any tips or advice for how I can get through to him?

Sincerely,

Concerned Mom

April Masini's advice:

Dear Concerned Mom,

Some moms need a little direction on how to teach/coach/guide their teenage sons in regard to grooming issues and why they are so important. Issues with teenagers can be difficult, so try to handle this delicately. Sit him down for a quiet conversation; if you don't act embarrassed, he won't be either. Then tell him the following information in a matter-of-fact way:

Mandatory Matters:

When it comes to good grooming habits and personal hygiene, there are several things that are non-negotiable, for instance, a daily shower — which by the way, should include cleaning the inside and outside of your ears and nose.

Smells, Odors, and Women:

First, you need to understand that women (as a whole) have a very developed sense of smell and are therefore extremely sensitive to odors. If you smell bad, it’s highly likely that women in the vicinity will notice. Yuck.

To ensure that you don’t become known as “nasty odor guy,” immediately following your daily shower, use a deodorant with antiperspirant—not just deodorant. And be sure to let it dry before putting on your shirt or there’s no point in putting it on in the first place.

If you are prone to foot odor, wear breathable shoes and socks. Invest in Odor Eaters and powder, and wash your feet— frequently. Yes, I do mean in addition to your daily shower. Stop bitching and moaning! Just stick your feet right in the tub. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’ll make a hell of a difference.

Check out my suggestions for fun grooming products you can buy for your son to help get your message across!