Hey Karl I just wanted to say you're not alone. I'm 18 I've needed to shave since I was like 14 or 15 and as my 'friends' say I have a neck beard mustache combo. But if you really want a beard you just gotta deal with the itch don't listen to when people mess with you and let it grow. I personally only shave when I gotta dress up and look nice. Besides that I just let it grow as much as I can. Shaving won't make your beard thicker it just straight up takes time. It can be discouraging and annoying so set a goal in your head or find a picture of the beard you want. So when you do get frustrated you can remind yourself of what you are going for. Just don't give up on it!