Whether you're planning on shaving your head for personal, appearance or medical reasons, using the right techniques can give you the best results possible. Dr. William Sears, pediatrician and Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine notes that the elevated amount of blood vessels on the head and scalp means that head cuts will bleed more than cuts elsewhere on your body. Shave carefully to avoid nicks and cuts when achieving the smooth and bald look.
Step 1
Trim your hair down to an eighth of an inch or less prior to shaving. An electric razor or set of clippers works effectively, although you may need a friend or family member to help you reach the back. The shorter your hair is, the less drag and pull you'll experience while shaving.
Step 2
Wet your head completely, using the hottest water you can stand. Hot water will help to soften the hair and make it easier to cut, while it penetrates your pores to make shaving a smoother experience, notes HeadShaver.org. If possible, plan to shave your head at the end of a shower, when the steam and heat has had ample time to soften your hair. When you begin to shave, start where the hair is the softest, around your neck and ears. This gives extra time for the heat to soften the areas where hair is coarser around the crown.
Step 3
Apply a good-quality shave cream or gel to your entire head. Shaving essentially removes the outermost layer of skin, which is why you can end up with razor burn, especially on sensitive skin. If you have especially sensitive skin, layer a moisturizer and a shave cream for more cushioning and protection from razor burn and bumps.
Step 4
Shave in the direction of the hair growth, says HairFinder.com. In some cases, you may have to shave in several different directions depending on the area of your head and any cowlicks you may have. Shaving against the grain may get you a closer shave, but it also cuts the hair below the surface of the skin, leaving you susceptible to ingrown hairs.
Step 5
Avoid going over the same area more than once. Use long, even strokes to get the best results, according to AskMen.com. Going over the same area may cause irritation.
Step 6
Apply a good-quality moisturizer to your entire head after you've finished shaving and dried your head. Avoid using aftershave, which contains alcohol and can leave you with a dry, flaky scalp. Instead, look for a moisturizer containing vitamin E that can soothe your scalp after you shave.
Things You'll Need
- Razor
- Shaving cream
- Hot water
- Moisturizer
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