How To Shave Your Head

Every Man Should Shave His Head Once.

The daunting day has come that every man dreads shaving their head. Most men shave their heads when they notice a receding hairline, loss of hair, or just when they want to try out a new look. Even though some men typically associate having a shaved head in the negative limelight, it has its advantages. For instance, for guys who are tired of trying out different hairstyles and grooming products to upkeep their hair, shaving your head can simplify your daily routine. It can also help you save money because you aren’t going to the barbershop as much anymore. Did we mention you are spending less on grooming products?

Perhaps the best perk to shaving your head is that you can easily do it yourself, no barber necessary. Yes, it can be a scary task to perform, especially if this is your first time shaving your head. As well as, not being too sure on how you will look once you make the big chop. But, most men have experienced this feeling and have soon learned that they look just the same once they shaved their head. Even a few stylish celebrities have engaged in shaving their head.

Celebrities Who Shaved Their Heads

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Now you probably don’t remember a time when Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson had a full head of hair, just because we’re so used to seeing him clean-shaved. However, early on in his acting career, Johnson had a head full of hair. Until 2010, when he cut it all off. This move turned out to be a great move after all, giving the star his signature look we all know him by today.

Bryan Cranston

Getty Images

Our beloved actor from Breaking Bad Bryan Cranston, would we love him anyway if he had a head full of hair? Sure, but his shaved head is what really made us root for Walter White. Of course he only shaved his head for the TV show, but we are glad he did.

Matt Damon

Getty Images

Another man we never thought we’d see with a shaved head? Matt Damon. This is why we were stunned when he appeared on The Today Show back in 2011 rocking the clean shaven look. And while this bold bald choice was unexpected, he undoubtedly pulled it off.

While having a shaved head is a low-maintenance hairstyle, there are quite a few steps that one must endure to make sure everything goes, smoothly, as it were. To help you out on your shaving journey, and prevent you from doing a botched job on your noggin, here are a few pointers to get you started on how to shave your head the right way.

Trim it Down

To ensure a comfortable head shave, make sure your current hair length is super-short. Use a pair of hair clippers to cut it down as low as you can. It’s best to remove the guard to get a closer cut, but if you don’t feel comfortable cutting your hair without the guard, then, by all means, use it as a guide. Remember, the point is to remove as much hair as possible to get a cleaner shave. It will help to prevent tugging of hair when using a razor. Try to trim your hair down in length to about 1/8 to 1/16 of an inch.

Wash Your Hair

As you would with your face or hair, wash up with your favorite shampoo or cleanser. We recommend Jack Black All-Over Wash for face, hair, and body. The sulfate-free wash contains jojoba protein, sea kelp, and shea butter, all of which are healthy and moisturizing to the skin. When washing your hair, it’s best to use warm water. This will allow for your hair to soften, and your pores will open. It will also get rid of any loose hairs. In return, this process will provide you with the most smooth and accurate shave possible.

Prep Your Scalp

The optimal time to shave your head is right after you shower. The steam from the hot water prepares the hair follicles and pores for a proper shave.  After your remaining hair is dry, it is wise to apply some pre-shave oil before shaving cream. The oil acts as an extra layer of protection against the razor blade to lower the risk of ingrown hairs or razor burns in some cases to those who have sensitive skin. It also gives a cleaner and smoother shave across your head, helping prevent any nicks and bumps.

Next step is to apply your shaving cream. Whether you prefer to use a gel or cream, both will work just as well. When applying the shaving cream, be sure to spread light and even layer all over your head. You don’t need a thick lather to do a good job.

Shave

The most important step is of course, shaving your head. Choose a razor that you will use for shaving the rest of your hair on your head. We recommend Dollar Shave’s Club 4 Blade All Terrain Bundle. Treat your head exactly as you would do your face when shaving. Pay close attention to your hair’s growth pattern and enlist medium to long strokes, and be careful not to apply too much pressure, so the razor naturally and comfortably glides over the skin.

Soothe Your Scalp

To calm and soothe the freshly-shaven scalp, rinse your head with cold water to close your pores and firm the skin. Next is to apply a thin layer of alcohol-free and antiseptic aftershave or post-shave balm. Using aftershave or post-shave balm will protect your skin from irritation and burn while offsetting any bacteria.

Never, ever forget the sunscreen. We recommend Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50, to protect your skin daily from the sun’s harmful rays. Remember the skin on your head is the same as the skin on your face, and might even be more susceptible to sun-related skin cancer, so protect it by all means necessary.

Maintain Your Clean Shave

While every guy is different, you will need to shave your head at least every one to three days to maintain a clean and smooth look. You will get the hang of it in no time.

Every man has their way or routine of how and when to shave their head and some men might prefer to use an electric shaver or even visit their local barber for a cut. Whichever way you choose to get your head shaved is totally up to you. The most important component of any shaved head is always confidence.