Author Topic: first time, what do I need?  (Read 3209 times)

Offline BrianA

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first time, what do I need?
« on: August 05, 2008, 06:57:18 PM »
Now that I’m getting serious about shaving my head it’s time to go shopping. What do I really need? I mean, the basics to do a good job. I don’t know if I like being sly and don’t want to spend too much money. For instance, would disposable razors be ok? Or just the electric I use for my face? What kind of cream, after shave, ..., do you recommend?



Offline schro

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #1 on: August 05, 2008, 07:04:18 PM »
Definite NO on disposables, unless you want to gash up your melon.
Everyone has differing opinions, but there are a lot of guys (me included) that love the HeadBlade razor. Make sure you watch the video on how to shave at www.headblade.com.

As far as shave greams/gels, I used to use HeadSlick exclusively (and it's great), but I recently tried the Blad Guyz shave gel and absolutely love that stuff.

Good luck Brian and make sure you post a pic after you cross over to the sly side of life.

Schro


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Offline champ007

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #2 on: August 05, 2008, 08:41:35 PM »
Welcome BrianA,
Check some of the shaving routines in this section to get an idea, but as Shro said definately stay away from the disposables. A electric is ok but you will not be able to get the slick feel and could rash up from irritation.
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Offline slyinglide

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #3 on: August 05, 2008, 09:41:27 PM »
You can get alot of good people here telling you alot of good ways to do it, but you will need to figure out the best way for you.........read about other peoples shaving regimes and then plan your own attack route.  As time goes buy u can adapt your routine to what fits you.        BUT USE SHARP BLADES if you go manual
I was told to think outside the box, how did I get in the box in the first place?

Offline wpruitt

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #4 on: August 05, 2008, 09:42:19 PM »
Cajones!
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt

Offline dog20

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #5 on: August 05, 2008, 09:48:29 PM »
1. Hair clippers
2. Fusion razor
3. Soap/Shaving Gel/Aloe Vera
4. Courage
5.  Aftershave

Quote
GETTING GOOD HEAD

FIRST TIME HEAD SHAVERS, TAKE NOTE:

Remember, a shaved head is not for everyone. If you are extremely thin, have an oddly shaped head or scalp problems, then a bald head is probably not for you. If you decide to go for it, remember it will always grow back if you don't like it. Shaving your head will dramatically change your appearance and may take a bit of time to get used to. Many men look great with a shaved head. But to pull one off, you must have confidence in your look. Always shave your head for the first time at the start of the weekend to give you time to get comfortable with your new look (and get some color on your white scalp) before you face your friends and colleagues. Allow yourself a good half hour to get the deed done for the first time. If you think you're ready, here goes....

NOTE: THERE IS NOTHING MORE UNATTRACTIVE THAN A BALD HEAD FULL OF BUMPS, RAZOR RASH, AND IN-GROWN HAIRS. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU PREP THE SCALP, SHAVE PROPERLY, AND PROTECT AFTERWARD. DO NOT SKIP ANY OF THE STEPS BELOW. THE FIRST TIME YOU SHAVE, THE PROCESS WILL TAKE ROUGHLY 30 MINUTES. WITH TIME AND PRACTICE, YOU WILL GET THE ROUTINE DOWN TO UNDER TEN. GOOD LUCK.


STEP ONE: THE PRE-SHAVE (FOR FIRST-TIMERS)

The first step in shaving your head is to remove as much of the hair as possible. Using a hair clipper with no guard, buzz the hair off as close to the scalp as possible.

STEP TWO: PREP

Always shave your head after or at the end of a shower, to soften the hair, open the pores, and cleanse the skin. Your shower should last at least 10 minutes. During the shower, lightly soap a washcloth and with a slight pressure glide the cloth all over your head against the grain. This will lift the hair for easier shaving. Rinse your head and the washcloth remain in the shower for few additional minutes. Next, apply a good shave cream and let it stand for a few minutes to soften the hair even more. I swear by Metro Men's Grooming Ultimate Shave Cream. Stay away from gels or products which contain menthol, which will close your pores and stiffen the hair. Shaving cream is ideally applied with a badger hair brush to soften and lift the hair. Never skimp on the preparation. This is vital to a good head shave!

First time shavers should exfoliate the scalp before applying the shaving cream (veteran baldies, should exfoliate twice weekly). Use a loofa or special facial scrub.

STEP THREE: SHAVE

Always have a hand mirror available so you can check the shave from all angles. You don't want to miss anything. Also, shave your head at the sink and make sure you have bright lighting. Proper lighting very important.

Use a clean, sharp razor such as the Gillette Mach3. Start by shaving WITH the grain (the direction the hair grows). This will minimize cuts, irritation, in-grown hairs and razor burn. Glide the razor down the sides and back and then from back to front on top. Avoid applying pressure (you don't want nicks or cuts) and rinse your blade often. Take it easy, pay attention, and be patient. You don't want to rush or get clumsy during this process.

After completing the shave, apply a small amount of lather to your hands and rub your entire head, checking for rough spots (sometimes you can't see them), especially behind the ears and on the back of the neck. Shave over any missed places. If you must have a closer shave, re-lather and shave lightly against the grain. Remember, shaving an area over and over can cause razor burn, so try to avoid it. If you cut yourself, apply a moist alum block on the area to stop bleeding. After shaving, close the pores with a rinse of cool water.

If using a shaving brush, always hang the brush to dry with the bristles facing downward.

Shave your head daily. The process will be easier if you do.

STEP FOUR: REPAIR AND PROTECT

You will need to hydrate and protect the skin. Finishing with a good gel or balm is key to leaving the skin soft, smooth, and protected..

Remember, you should always wear sunscreen on your head. The skin on your head is more sensitive and very susceptible to skin cancer. First time shavers will want to get some color on their scalp. I recommend the use of a self-tanning cream rather than exteneded sun exposure. With time, your scalp will develop color and you will not have to apply self-tanning cream Be sure to buy a high-quality self-tanner and test it on a hidden part of your body to make sure the color looks natural. You don't want to walk around with a big, orange, bald head! : )

MAINTAIN I




Shaving your head daily or every other day will ensure better results and keep you looking fresh. Always mositurize and apply a good sunscreen. Headshaving is so common now, several companies now make products just for bald guys. Ever seen a bald guy shampoo? No. Well, here you go
« Last Edit: August 05, 2008, 09:58:46 PM by dog20 »



Offline BrianA

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #6 on: August 06, 2008, 12:52:08 PM »
Definite NO on disposables, unless you want to gash up your melon.
Everyone has differing opinions, but there are a lot of guys (me included) that love the HeadBlade razor. Make sure you watch the video on how to shave at www.headblade.com.

As far as shave greams/gels, I used to use HeadSlick exclusively (and it's great), but I recently tried the Blad Guyz shave gel and absolutely love that stuff.

Good luck Brian and make sure you post a pic after you cross over to the sly side of life.

Schro

Thanks, I’ll post a pic unless I have too many cuts.

Offline BrianA

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #7 on: August 06, 2008, 12:56:22 PM »
1. Hair clippers
2. Fusion razor
3. Soap/Shaving Gel/Aloe Vera
4. Courage
5.  Aftershave

Quote
GETTING GOOD HEAD

FIRST TIME HEAD SHAVERS, TAKE NOTE:

Remember, a shaved head is not for everyone. If you are extremely thin, have an oddly shaped head or scalp problems, then a bald head is probably not for you. If you decide to go for it, remember it will always grow back if you don't like it. Shaving your head will dramatically change your appearance and may take a bit of time to get used to. Many men look great with a shaved head. But to pull one off, you must have confidence in your look. Always shave your head for the first time at the start of the weekend to give you time to get comfortable with your new look (and get some color on your white scalp) before you face your friends and colleagues. Allow yourself a good half hour to get the deed done for the first time. If you think you're ready, here goes....

NOTE: THERE IS NOTHING MORE UNATTRACTIVE THAN A BALD HEAD FULL OF BUMPS, RAZOR RASH, AND IN-GROWN HAIRS. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU PREP THE SCALP, SHAVE PROPERLY, AND PROTECT AFTERWARD. DO NOT SKIP ANY OF THE STEPS BELOW. THE FIRST TIME YOU SHAVE, THE PROCESS WILL TAKE ROUGHLY 30 MINUTES. WITH TIME AND PRACTICE, YOU WILL GET THE ROUTINE DOWN TO UNDER TEN. GOOD LUCK.


STEP ONE: THE PRE-SHAVE (FOR FIRST-TIMERS)

The first step in shaving your head is to remove as much of the hair as possible. Using a hair clipper with no guard, buzz the hair off as close to the scalp as possible.

STEP TWO: PREP

Always shave your head after or at the end of a shower, to soften the hair, open the pores, and cleanse the skin. Your shower should last at least 10 minutes. During the shower, lightly soap a washcloth and with a slight pressure glide the cloth all over your head against the grain. This will lift the hair for easier shaving. Rinse your head and the washcloth remain in the shower for few additional minutes. Next, apply a good shave cream and let it stand for a few minutes to soften the hair even more. I swear by Metro Men's Grooming Ultimate Shave Cream. Stay away from gels or products which contain menthol, which will close your pores and stiffen the hair. Shaving cream is ideally applied with a badger hair brush to soften and lift the hair. Never skimp on the preparation. This is vital to a good head shave!

First time shavers should exfoliate the scalp before applying the shaving cream (veteran baldies, should exfoliate twice weekly). Use a loofa or special facial scrub.

STEP THREE: SHAVE

Always have a hand mirror available so you can check the shave from all angles. You don't want to miss anything. Also, shave your head at the sink and make sure you have bright lighting. Proper lighting very important.

Use a clean, sharp razor such as the Gillette Mach3. Start by shaving WITH the grain (the direction the hair grows). This will minimize cuts, irritation, in-grown hairs and razor burn. Glide the razor down the sides and back and then from back to front on top. Avoid applying pressure (you don't want nicks or cuts) and rinse your blade often. Take it easy, pay attention, and be patient. You don't want to rush or get clumsy during this process.

After completing the shave, apply a small amount of lather to your hands and rub your entire head, checking for rough spots (sometimes you can't see them), especially behind the ears and on the back of the neck. Shave over any missed places. If you must have a closer shave, re-lather and shave lightly against the grain. Remember, shaving an area over and over can cause razor burn, so try to avoid it. If you cut yourself, apply a moist alum block on the area to stop bleeding. After shaving, close the pores with a rinse of cool water.

If using a shaving brush, always hang the brush to dry with the bristles facing downward.

Shave your head daily. The process will be easier if you do.

STEP FOUR: REPAIR AND PROTECT

You will need to hydrate and protect the skin. Finishing with a good gel or balm is key to leaving the skin soft, smooth, and protected..

Remember, you should always wear sunscreen on your head. The skin on your head is more sensitive and very susceptible to skin cancer. First time shavers will want to get some color on their scalp. I recommend the use of a self-tanning cream rather than exteneded sun exposure. With time, your scalp will develop color and you will not have to apply self-tanning cream Be sure to buy a high-quality self-tanner and test it on a hidden part of your body to make sure the color looks natural. You don't want to walk around with a big, orange, bald head! : )

MAINTAIN I




Shaving your head daily or every other day will ensure better results and keep you looking fresh. Always mositurize and apply a good sunscreen. Headshaving is so common now, several companies now make products just for bald guys. Ever seen a bald guy shampoo? No. Well, here you go

Sounds more difficult than I thought but thanks for posting it.

Offline Kojack

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #8 on: August 06, 2008, 01:36:46 PM »
Its definately something you'll get better at as time goes by.
Don't expect a perfect job your first time, and honestly if you have someone that can assist you. Use them to help get those hard to see spots. It might see harsh and you might not like the results at first. My advice is stick with it a week or so. Get used to the shaving and get used to the new look.
Remember to never take my advice seriously (unless I'm being serious) and you'll do alright.

Offline schro

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #9 on: August 06, 2008, 01:48:08 PM »
In the package, the HeadBlade comes with a little plastic cover on the blade. I actually practiced shaving with the guard on before I shaved my head for the first time. I honestly feel it helped me avoid those rookie nicks and get used to the motion of keeping the little plastic nub on the back of the blade (the "Classic") or wheels (Sport edition) in contact with your head.

One piece of advice...avoid nicking your ears. They bleed like an uncapped oil well.


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Offline Bolohead

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #10 on: August 06, 2008, 01:54:22 PM »
1. Hair clippers
+
2. Fusion razor
+
3. Soap/Shaving Gel/Aloe Vera
+
4. Courage
+
5.  Aftershave

=

Confidence

Offline FClef

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #11 on: August 06, 2008, 01:58:30 PM »
If you go the way of the sly then you have crossed over into a new dimension where you join the ranks of men everywhere that have embraced their inner bald.

Know this, at first your scalp will be majorly tender from shaving. Do not panic. I really only started a few weeks ago and the overall irritation I first experienced has now gotten to a manageable level. Take note of what people suggest for post-shaving after care. I would avoid the rubbing alcohol suggestions though unless you like being in the fetal position and screaming for your Mommy. :o After care is just as important as the before shave preparation.

You will have to learn the contours of your head and the best way to shave them. No one here can tell you how to do that part of it because everyone is different.

Most of all be patient. If you have problems, ask here. These guys are terrific and have great ideas and are willing to help you.
« Last Edit: August 06, 2008, 09:18:56 PM by FClef »
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Offline Kojack

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Re: first time, what do I need?
« Reply #12 on: August 06, 2008, 05:30:22 PM »
Know this, at first your scalp will be majorly tender from shaving. Do not panic. I really only started a few weeks ago and the overall irritation I first experienced has now gotten to a manageable level.

Truer words were never posted.
Remember to never take my advice seriously (unless I'm being serious) and you'll do alright.

 



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