How to Know the Signs of Puberty (For Men)

Puberty can be a confusing time when you’re often curious about the changes going on in your body. This is completely normal. The reality is that everyone goes through puberty a little differently, but it’s not without signs that you can rely on to recognize. In this article, we have listed the signs to help you know if you have reached puberty or not.

Table of Contents

Testicles begin to develop

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Often this is one of the earliest signs. The testicles, the two “balls” of boys, are where semen and testosterone are produced. Testosterone is a hormone that performs many different functions, but is also one of the factors that make up puberty. As the testicles begin to produce more semen and testosterone, they also begin to increase in size. ^{[1] X Research Source}

You may notice your testicles getting bigger before you start to grow hair or break your voice. Everyone’s body is different!

Scrotal skin is thinner

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As the testicles enlarge, the surrounding skin also begins to change. Before the body enters puberty, the skin around the testicles, also known as the scrotum, is always tight and thick. During puberty, the skin of the scrotum loosens and thins to allow room for the testicles to grow. ^{[2] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

The scrotum will also be darker or slightly redder. This is normal, so don’t worry if it happens to you.

Penis enlargement

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You may see the penis begin to change and enlarge. The penis may get longer and thicker as you hit puberty, but don’t forget that puberty is different for everyone. So, if your “boy” doesn’t seem to be growing at first, don’t stress. Eventually you will see a change. ^{[3] X Trusted Source FamilyDoctor.org Go to Source}

You start having “wet dreams”

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This can happen as your body gets used to the changes that are taking place. Ejaculation occurs when semen exits the penis, also known as ejaculation. When you hit puberty, you may start to unconsciously ejaculate while you’re sleeping. This situation eventually came to an end, but it was still annoying every time it happened. Don’t worry, this is normal! ^{[4] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

Unfortunately, you can’t really prevent a wet dream because it happens in your sleep, but you can keep a towel nearby in case you need to wipe it down. If you go to a friend’s house to play and sleep overnight, bring a spare pair of underwear. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

Appearance of hair in the genital area

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Look for hairs starting to grow underneath the “boy”. One of the most obvious signs of puberty is the appearance of thick, curly hairs, also known as pubic hair. Vaginal hair begins to grow around the bottom of the penis and near the scrotum. ^{[6] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

Beards and body hair begin to grow

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Puberty also causes hair to grow in other places as well. As puberty begins and hormones like testosterone increase, you’ll notice hair growth in many places on your body. You may start to grow facial hair (you may even need to shave), armpit hair, and hair on areas like your back, legs, and arms. ^{[7] X Trusted Source FamilyDoctor.org Go to Source}

Some boys may have full body hair and facial hair, while others have no hair at all.

The voice starts to crack and get deeper

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Puberty also changes your vocal cords and voice. One thing that can be embarrassing for boys as they reach puberty is the occasional voice cracking. That’s because your vocal cords get longer and thicker, making your voice deeper. ^{[8] X Research Source} It might be awkward at first, but eventually you’ll get the deep voice of a grown man. ^{[9] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

Usually, your voice will only crack for a few months, after which the odd sounds will go away.
Fun fact: puberty also causes part of the neck to protrude as the vocal cords change, this protrusion is also known as the “starch fruit”!

Acne started to appear

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Acne is (unfortunately) a normal phenomenon of puberty. One of the troubles of puberty is acne. All these increased hormones in the body cause the skin to produce more oil, which can clog pores and lead to acne. So, if you suddenly notice acne on your face or back, it could be a sign that you have reached puberty. ^{[10] X Trusted Source FamilyDoctor.org Go to Source}

You can limit acne by taking care of your skin. Wash your face at least once a day and use an acne cleanser.

Big body rising up

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Puberty can affect the shape of the entire body. Between the ages of 10 and 16, you’ll begin to “pull out” – sometimes with a miraculous speed! Arms, legs, hands, and feet may grow faster than the rest of the body, but eventually everything will be in balance. The spike in height is a clear sign that your body changes as you enter puberty. ^{[11] X Research Source}

Girls usually start to grow up a few years earlier than boys, because girls usually go through puberty earlier than boys.

Weight starts to increase and muscle growth

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Chest, arms, and shoulders may start to get bigger. The hormones during puberty also cause other changes in the body, especially hormones like testosterone. Before you hit puberty, you can’t really build new muscle mass. But if you start to see your chest, legs, back, and shoulders gradually getting bigger and stronger, that’s a sign of puberty. ^{[12] X Research Source}

Some boys may suddenly grow muscular, while others may gain only a little bit of weight. Don’t compare with others and don’t worry too much. Even if you don’t gain much muscle, it doesn’t mean that your body has a problem.

Underneath the nipple may be a little swollen

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This phenomenon is called gynecomastia in men and is completely normal. About half of boys may develop temporary breast tissue. While it can be uncomfortable, the condition is natural and will usually go away in less than 6 months. If you have a little swelling and pain under your nipples, don’t worry! It’s just that you’re entering puberty! ^{[13] X Research Source}

Talk to your parents if puberty comes too early or too late

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Your parents can schedule a doctor’s appointment if necessary. If you started showing signs of puberty before age 8 or after age 14, let your doctor know. Your doctor can check to make sure everything is fine and nothing serious has happened. ^{[14] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

Even if you haven’t hit puberty by the age of 14, it doesn’t mean you have a problem, but your doctor can guarantee it, and it’s always better to be careful.

Advice

If you’re worried about puberty, try talking to someone you trust, like a close friend or family member. Feeling a little confused is completely normal, and sometimes just talking about it can put your mind at ease.

Steps