Head Shaving for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shaving your head is freeing: no haircuts, no bad hair days and a clean, confident look. The first few shaves can feel awkward, though. Follow these steps and you will get a smooth result with fewer nicks.

What you need

Hair clippers (if you are starting with longer hair)
A sharp razor – either a standard cartridge razor or one designed for heads
Shave cream or gel
A towel and a mirror, ideally a hand mirror to see the back
Alcohol-free moisturiser and sunscreen for aftercare

Step 1: Clip it short

If your hair is longer than a few millimetres, use clippers first. Trying to shave long hair clogs the razor and pulls.

Step 2: Soften the hair

Shave after a warm shower, or hold a warm, damp towel on your head for a couple of minutes. Soft hair and open pores make the shave far more comfortable.

Step 3: Lather up

Apply a generous layer of shave cream or gel. Work in sections so it does not dry out before you get to it.

Step 4: Shave with the grain first

Hair on the head grows in different directions, often swirling around the crown. For your first pass, shave in the direction the hair grows. Use short, light strokes and let the blade do the work. Rinse the razor often.

Step 5: Optional second pass

For a smoother finish, re-lather and shave across the grain. Only shave against the grain if your skin is not sensitive – it gives the closest shave but causes the most irritation.

Step 6: Aftercare

Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
Apply an alcohol-free moisturiser to calm the skin.
Use sunscreen every day – a freshly shaved scalp burns quickly.

Avoiding common problems

Razor burn – usually caused by a dull blade, too much pressure or not enough lather.
Nicks around the ears and neck – slow down and stretch the skin gently with your free hand.
Ingrown hairs – exfoliate gently a couple of times a week.

Gear up

HeadBlade makes razors and grooming products designed specifically for head shaving. Check the latest HeadBlade coupons before you stock up.