There are a few things to keep in mind. At least these are the things I keep in my mind (a scary place, to be sure).
-- Every couple of days you should exfoliate your scalp before you shave. This will get rid of dead skin cells and remove a barrier between the blade and the skin. I don't do it every day, just every other day. When I started doing this my shaves got a lot smoother and more comfortable.
-- Use a good after shave. For myself, I really like the Bee Bald Heal. I find it very soothing and doesn't leave my scalp feeling oily.
-- If you're going to be out in the sun use sun block. The SPF level is up to you but I usually go for 25. That protects your dome, but lets in just enough to get some color.
-- If you live some where that gets cold, for Pete's sake, get a hat! You'll need it.
PS: I don't think anyone here thinks you're a jerk. By your posts you seem like a pretty genuine guy.