Most males begin puberty between ages nine and 15, while most females begin earlier: between ages eight and 13. [1] X Research source You might feel awkward or embarrassed at first, but this is a natural process, and you will eventually become comfortable with your body.
This is a common first step as you approach puberty. If you notice yourself experiencing frequent mood swings, puberty is just around the corner. If you notice an increase in negative thoughts or are occupied with thoughts of harming yourself or others, talk to your parents or to your school counselor as soon as possible.
Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle facial cleanser twice a day to keep the pimples from showing up and getting bigger. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Drink more water so that your body can flush out toxins. Acne can also be genetic. If you start noticing an increase in pimples, ask your parents if they suffered from many outbreaks during puberty. You may wish to see a dermatologist for additional skin care.
Pubic hair and body hair growth are signs that you have definitely entered puberty. While mood swings, acne, and other hormonal developments precede or lead into your pubescence, body hair growth and upcoming growth spurts are sure signs to help you know that you have entered puberty.
Since everyone begins puberty at different times, some teenagers will begin their growth spurts before their peers. This is normal, even if it’s sometimes a little socially awkward. Young women will notice their hips becoming wider and will begin to develop breasts. Young men will notice their shoulders becoming broader and their chests filling out. [7] X Research source
It’s also a good idea to visit your doctor yearly while you are going through puberty. He will make sure you are healthy and can answer any questions you may have.
This process often causes some soreness around your developing breasts — don’t be concerned, this is normal.
Most adolescents begin wearing deodorant during puberty, to prevent any unpleasant body-odor smells that may develop. It’s also important to bathe or shower daily. Many people begin to shave their armpit hair. This is a fine thing to do, especially if you consider this hair to be unattractive or uncomfortable.
Menstruation is a monthly process that many people experience. Each month, an egg from one of your ovaries will descend to your uterus, only to be shed along with the inner lining of your womb. The eggs and uterine lining exit through your vagina, and this process causes monthly bleeding. It helps to have a box of sanitary pads ready in advance. If you’re uncertain about how to use them, you can ask your parent/guardian or a sibling to show you. You may want to have one or two in your backpack or locker at school in case your period begins at school. Your periods may be inconsistent or widely spaced out at first. As you age, they will happen monthly, but at first, you may only have a period once every six months. [10] X Research source
As your body begins to develop and to produce more testosterone, you will begin to physically look more like a man. As part of this process, your penis will increase in size as well.
Although the “cracking” in your voice can be unexpected and slightly embarrassing, it usually only lasts for a few months. Your larynx (or “voice box”) will grow. This results in a more pronounced Adam’s apple.
You will also begin to experience wet dreams: a sexual arousal and ejaculation while you are asleep. Not every young man has wet dreams, but if you experience them, it’s completely normal.
You may not need to shave your face until sometime in high school. Buy a razor in anticipation of shaving your face. Shaving your face can seem dangerous or difficult at first; if you’re concerned, have one of your parents show you how to shave.
