There is a lot of head shaving going on in the world. Whether you’re a dad who is going bald, a friend who’s supporting someone going through cancer treatment, or a guy like me who’s just doing it to fit in, it’s important to know what you’re doing Want to shave your head, too? Here’s how.
Preparation
Shaving is easiest with the shortest hair possible. If you are coming down from a full head of hair use scissors to cut off the length then use a beard, head or body hair trimmer at its closest setting/comb. The shorter this hair is the less irritation you will experience.
It’s best to start shaving after a shower when pores are open and the skin is exfoliated. If you didn’t take a shower, simply wet and massage your head with a damp, warm towel.
Cover your head in the shaving lotion or gel of your choice. There is not a definitive or special product needed.
Equipment
Any basic razor can be used, but the straight handle made for your face, body, or legs can be difficult to control when getting to the back of your head.
Headblades are extremely popular among our bare-headed friends. They come in a range of prices online, extra blades can be bought locally.
Technique
Wet your razor blade with warm water. Begin shaving at the top of the head pulling the razor backward from the top of the forehead to the top of the neck. Try to use long strokes.
Let the razor do the work, you don’t need to apply pressure. Pressing the razor into the skin will encourage bumps and cause cuts, which are much more painful on the head than the neck.
The first few times it will be awkward to navigate the back of the head, so go slower with this area.
After the top and back of the head is shaved begin tackling the sides. Long strokes are good here too but the ears make things difficult.
The skin around the ear is looser and folds form round the ears. With your free hand pull your ear down and forward to tighten the skin behind it as you shave.
After shaving, gently wipe your head with a warm, damp towel to grab any extra shaving cream or hair follicles.
Care
Feel free to use a skin soother. A basic non-pore clogging lotion, aftershave or even aloe vera will work. This helps soothe the skin and makes it softer—important as you’re probably in for a lot of head rubs for the next few days.
The skin on the back of your head is going to need the most attention. The first few shaves will most likely leave razor burn. If you develop razor burn then wait a few days for it to calm down before you shave again. After a few weeks your skin will adjust to the new treatment and razor bumps should stop appearing.
How often you shave is personal preference. Most people shave every day to every third day to maintain a smooth look.
