Entering adolescence can be, well, hairy. If it’s time for your kid to do some grooming, John Steever, MD, a pediatrician at Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center in New York City, offers intro-to-shaving strategies.

Time it right. Your child may be ready to shave anywhere between ages 9 to 16. Good signs of shave-ability: Your son begins to see a 5 o’clock shadow or your daughter starts to have coarse, darker hair on her legs and underarms. If your kid doesn’t seem to notice, you might want to bring it up.

Share shaving to-do’s. While they’re probably pruning different areas, shaving tips for guys and girls are relatively similar. Soften the skin by shaving in the shower, or shortly afterward, to lessen the risks of cuts. Shave in the direction of hair growth, don’t press down too hard on the razor, and don’t rush.

Don’t skimp on the supplies. Invest in a high-quality razor (preferably not disposable) and remind your child to change the blades every two weeks. He or she should also lather up with shaving cream and use moisturizer after. Since a newbie might cut it a little too close at first, stash away a styptic pencil to stop bleeding immediately.