How to Shave Your Head

Wet shaving isn’t just for your face anymore. You might know how well it works to give you a smooth chin, but it works equally well on your head. Don’t fear the blade when shaving your head, embrace it. If you are a world class athlete shaving time off your races by shaving hair off your body or a couch jockey fighting the receding hairline by removing the hair altogether, we have some tips for getting a smooth shave – no matter where you apply the razor.

Steps for Shaving your Head:

Step 1: Use a hot towel

Just like the iconic barbershop hot towel shave, your head too can benefit from the effects of a hot cloth. Wet a towel with hot water, wring, and wrap around your head while you prep for your shave. The heat from the towel opens the pores, exposes more of the hair follicle to the blade, and softens your stubble. 

Step 2: Create your lather

Getting adequate lubrication and protection is so important when scrapping a blade over your head. It is essential that you create a rich, thick, creamy lather. It doesn’t just help you see where you’ve been, that froth is providing moisture and slickness to protect you from the steel. Using a bowl/mug (or even palm/head), take a nickel-sized amount of your favorite cream on the head of your favorite shaving brush and whip! The brush doesn’t just whip up the cream, it also exfoliates the skin and raises the hairs for a smoother, closer shave.

Step 3: Shave

Now you are ready to ply the razor. A long-handled safety razor with your favorite blade is an excellent choice for the longer reach. With a soft touch, shaving against the grain will give you a close, smooth shave. This will be rather individual, as everyone’s hair grows differently. You might want to start shaving with the grain until you get the hang of it. On a second pass, you might want to try against the grain. Make sure you are aware of moles, bumps, or dips that will need extra attention or avoidance. Shave along the contour of your head, folding back your ears to avoid nicks.  

Step 4: Apply Aftershave

After you have completed your shave, rinse your head (the towel comes in really handy again!). And apply your favorite after shave tonic/splash. Since you’ve just finished running a blade over all the skin on your head, it is highly recommended that you take some care with your finishing products. Don’t just rinse and forget it. An aftershave is imperative for cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your post-shave skin. Unless you have extremely dry skin, a splash is probably best, as a balm could be too greasy.

Tips & Tricks for Shaving Your Head:

• The biggest mistake that people make is to rush. Please, please, please take your time. (No reason to carve yourself like a turkey!) Pay special attention to moles or other raised areas on your skin. Slower is better in this case. You won’t regret it.
• The longer handled safety razor is helpful for the longer strokes on your head.
• You can use these same steps for shaving your face.