Sly Bald Guys Forum

Discussions About Being Bald => 30 Day Rule / Beginners Section => Topic started by: t3ase on March 02, 2011, 03:45:03 PM

Title: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 02, 2011, 03:45:03 PM
I've thought before about shaving my head bald (by choice) but never had the follow through. At the beginning of this year I moved to a new state, got enrolled in school, and have lately needed a bit of a "be somebody" push. Well, after being bored for a bit this morning, I started googling "what would I look with my head shaved?" and similar things for quite a while. After seeing some sites with simple answers, one or two that'd photoshop your photos for a price, I thankfully ended up on this forum. I was surprised at how helpful everyone is around here during my reading, especially when it came to helping indecisive people decide to do it.

Despite so many times of trying to cover my hair with my hand or stare and try to imagine being bald, I took the advice this morning and just did it.

At 10:53a I set up the bathroom with clippers, a razor with backup cartridge, gel, and a camera to capture a photo every 3 seconds. Almost nearly an hour later, I was the new me and I already dig it. I can't wait to get it a bit tan (yes, I know, SPF35+) and start truly enjoying it. No cuts, no incidents, just a nice new shiny dome.

As for the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m137lm2GEWQ

Stills before and after (let me know if they don't show up and I'll upload them elsewhere):

Before: https://s-hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/183940_1746705160385_1621489599_1663751_7396499_n.jpg
Middle: https://s-hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/183784_1746112585571_1621489599_1662810_159900_n.jpg
After: https://s-hphotos-snc6.fbcdn.net/188941_1746709280488_1621489599_1663755_1036024_n.jpg

I'm definitely going to do the 30 days but I already dig it so I'm pretty sure I'll be slick for a while. Thank you all for your very helpful posts and I'll continue to be a member here for sure.

Now to remember to go pickup some sunscreen and something to wear under my motorcycle helmet.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: sailor61 on March 02, 2011, 04:29:30 PM
welcome to the forum.   looking good.  and the video was cool - did I count that you lathered and scraped 4 times?  just be careful you don't get your scalp irritated.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Razor X on March 02, 2011, 09:18:05 PM
Looks fantastic!  Congratulations on taking the plunge.  O0
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: -Doug- on March 02, 2011, 09:44:47 PM
Awesome transformation and awesome video! Welcome!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 02, 2011, 11:41:27 PM
welcome to the forum.   looking good.  and the video was cool - did I count that you lathered and scraped 4 times?  just be careful you don't get your scalp irritated.
Honestly, I didn't keep track. All I knew is that I wanted to take my time and do it right, without gouging my head or something. I knew if I was bleeding out anywhere or had any scabs, it'd take away from my confidence when it came to showing in public. From now on it obviously won't take that much time or that many "rinse and repeats." I will take note of your words though and make sure I keep it down so it takes less work.

I did follow the video with a shower and Nivea After Shave Balm on the head. So far no issues minus the occasional goosebumps from coldness. Feels incredibly strange but that shower previously felt GREAT.

I appreciate all the replies and comments so far. I had class tonight (my first truly public outing) and had a moment or two of self consciousness as I passed out test results to a class full of students for the teacher. I swear I heard a "because they're scared" at one point when I called names of those absent weren't replying and I asked to myself out loud "Really?"

However, even if they did say it, I felt okay with that considering I'm going to school to be a cop.

All in all, I have to say for those thinking of doing it:

Ya know, you can sit here and read everybody saying "JUST DO IT" as I did this morning. It won't matter what they say until you, yourself, know. And it's not a sudden epiphany where it all becomes clear, it's more of the fact you realize "hey, what the hell, I'm reading this forum so why NOT?!" I really don't personally recommend this for those with deeper self-esteem issues as-is. Shaving your head will NOT solve those issues and may, in fact, make those issues worse. However, that said, if you feel even just "okay" with who you are (read: you don't have be the most confident guy out there) and you're considering it, do it. You really have NOTHING to lose, minus the hair. I know reading it makes you feel one way but when you're going through the process, it's so different. Again, if you've just got an ounce of confidence in ya before you take the plunge and shave it all off, you're going to make it.

It may be rough for a little bit depending on how receptive you are to people (or on the other end of that: how paranoid you are) but you gotta throw that confidence you had before shaving back in your own face and say "ya know what, I'm doin' this" even if those times may come where you feel a bit outta place.

I won't say it's a spiritual rejuvenation or a cleansing, as I don't believe in that stuff. You won't add any confidence to your life if you had none to begin with when you shave everything. However, if you find that little bit that you have (or a lot in some cases) and use that as your foundation for doing it, I think anyone can pull this off.

It's weird the first day as you're passing cars in a parking lot and looking over to see yourself. Looking up at security camera displays and noticing no hair. It's not that its HARD, its just that its different. You're missing something that has been around you for years. Its a hard break up but as we all know, even breaking up with the one you thought you loved the most something else comes along and steals that spot right back.

Keep your head up, keep it shaved, and smile even if you're in line at the store looking up at yourself in the security TVs. You'll make it and in doing so, you'll be able to look back and know that you made it to a point that some people would love to have the balls to get to. That, in itself, is a confidence boost.

Anyway, now I'm ranting but yeah...

It's nice. It's definitely nice.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: The Scottish Ambassador on March 03, 2011, 01:53:17 AM
Well done. looks gr8  O0
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: marty22 on March 03, 2011, 06:02:00 AM
welcome and great job!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: CraftyGuy on March 03, 2011, 09:17:27 AM
Welcome!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Bilko1 on March 03, 2011, 01:36:27 PM
Very cool video. Loved the transformation.
You really suit the bald head. I wouldn't be too bothered about other folks reactions whether good or bad.

Keep the look, bro.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: baldjoeg on March 03, 2011, 02:34:37 PM
T3ASE,

Your dome looks great.

Welcome to the forum.

Baldjoeg
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Razor X on March 03, 2011, 03:59:20 PM
It sounds like you are at serious risk for being bald for a long time.  Sounds like you are digging the new look already, but after 30 days there's no way you'll want to go back to having hair.   ;)

Most guys are afraid to shave a full head of hair.  It's a shame that they'll never know what they're missing. 
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: wpruitt on March 05, 2011, 06:17:30 AM
Looks good !
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 09, 2011, 12:18:39 AM
Sorry, I was away in Vegas for the weekend.. Definitely had an interesting time there with no hair. ;)

I appreciate the feedback everyone. I'll be lurking and posting here for a while it seems.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: beardedbaldgerman on March 18, 2011, 07:48:58 AM
Great video! Great look!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 19, 2011, 01:01:47 PM
Not sure I ever really had a true doubt but I'm now officially hooked and it's only been a little over two weeks in.

A week or so ago we were at the local Albertson's (grocery store) which given that we're in a smaller town has the basics but not a lot of "extra goodies." To my surprise, there was a HeadBlade Sport sitting in the cartridge refill section! A new gadget  that is actually useful?! :@`

Last night I placed my first "product" order with HB.
HeadSlick Shave Cream - I've heard good stuff about this and wanted to try it out.
HeadWash - So I didn't *need* this but it matches everything else and supposedly smells good.
HeadLube Lotion Matte - I've been using Aloe as a post conditioner after I left my balm in a hotel. Interested in seeing how "matte" it really makes it.
HeadShed Lotion - Another "what the hell, why not" purchase to replace the face scrub I've been using a bit too much of given it's price.

Now just to research more on the cartridge replacement options and pick out some new blades.

Cheers to everyone here and keep 'em slick!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: -Doug- on March 19, 2011, 05:54:26 PM
Quote
HeadSlick Shave Cream - I've heard good stuff about this and wanted to try it out.
HeadWash - So I didn't *need* this but it matches everything else and supposedly smells good.
HeadLube Lotion Matte - I've been using Aloe as a post conditioner after I left my balm in a hotel. Interested in seeing how "matte" it really makes it.
HeadShed Lotion - Another "what the hell, why not" purchase to replace the face scrub I've been using a bit too much of given it's price.

HeadSlick Shave Cream - This is the best shaving cream out there IMHO. I use it on the dome and face.

HeadLube Lotion Matte - I just got some earlier this week. It does help to reduce the shine - which I like. It also seems to do well as a moisturizer too. My head wasn't flaky later in the day.

HeadShed - I haven't used this lately but it is good stuff. It isn't as thick or pasty as some of the other scrubs on the market.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 19, 2011, 06:09:38 PM
Nice! Thank you!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: balddaniel on March 20, 2011, 10:57:09 AM
t3ase,

Great video you just so happen to look great both with or without hair.  Although I like the bald look better.  You are friggin hot  >:D
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on March 21, 2011, 03:46:05 AM
t3ase,

Great video you just so happen to look great both with or without hair.  Although I like the bald look better.  You are friggin hot  >:D
My roommate and his partner agree with you, just as the girl I've been trying to talk to forever but never had the balls to until last night. My confidence finally kicked in and I took the plunge and messaged her. She digs the (lack of) hair and I doubt I would have talked to her without this little kick of confidence. It's worked out great so far.

I appreciate your thoughts. :)
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Seraphim on March 31, 2011, 02:07:15 PM
Great job t3ase! I jumped in myself just 2 days ago. I have been thinning for years, add psoriasis to it....and enough was enough. Although I had been warned against it, I used my Gillette Super-Speed DE after using clippers with no guard. Best idea ever, 30 or so minutes and not a nick nor irritation. The wife is not loving it so far, but hey...she didn't marry my hair...lol. I guess SWMBO will just have to deal for the moment. I love it, and everyone has been very positive so far. Thanks for a cool thread to make my first post O0
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: ed.baldie on March 31, 2011, 03:21:09 PM
looks fantastic man!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on April 03, 2011, 11:55:30 PM
Welp, it's been (over) 30 days now and I'm still rocking the slicktop.

Observations:
My confidence has improved a huge amount, just as everyone said it would.

Friends and family weren't as discouraging as I thought they'd be, in fact everyone supported it. My Mom had a bit of a "WOW" moment (literally) when I was on the phone with her as she watched my time lapse video.

The time it takes to shave is becoming less and less but I've also found I enjoy it and feel like I'm "unwinding" when I do it. Kinda of a "me time" thing.

Other people (those I don't know) seem to have changed the way they interact with me. This is somewhat hard to explain, it just seems as though I'm treated a bit differently in a good way. Maybe it's my inner confidence showing or maybe it's how I now look. I've been told I'm now quite a bit more intimidating looking. I do carry my head up a bit higher and my chest out a bit more these days, though. Still trying to work this one out and figure what exactly is going on.

I'm single and I've noticed my "target demographic" for what I'm looking for has also changed. This may also have to do with confidence or the fact I recently moved to Cali and am changing all together. I don't know but I will say I'm getting a LOT more attention from the "puma" and "cougar" age ladies than I did before. At lot more extended smiles and a bit more attention from them, and I'm diggin' it.

I do dislike spending so much time shaving thinking I got every angle to reach up a bit later and feel some stubborn stubble. Ninja hair.

I absolutely love the feel of a pillow, especially if I leave the window open right above my bed and it's nice and chilly when I get there. Aloe vera is also a nice touch, not to mention the smell.

I had to stop wearing my Under Armor skullcap due to the marks it left on my head from being trapped between it and my helmet. No problems wearing the (motorcycle) helmet without anything so far. I do keep my head well covered in HeadLube, Aloe, and or sunscreen as needed so maybe that helps?

Anyway, thought I'd post a few photos taken tonight. I appreciate everyone's support around here and thanks for being so open and welcome with the help you give everyone. Nice to see a (seemingly) civil place like this.

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/199566_1805647073896_1621489599_1749406_6418907_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/207253_1805647193899_1621489599_1749407_5535386_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/196251_1805647353903_1621489599_1749408_3133348_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/199323_1805647833915_1621489599_1749409_7238725_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: sailor61 on April 04, 2011, 07:24:55 AM
Hey - welcome to the over 30 gang. Great post.

Looking at the new pictures I understand why you're drawing the attention; sly is an incredible look for you.

Excellent turn of phrase; ninja hairs.  Know them well and HATE the little ba%^*rds!     Nice relaxing shave, think everything is great, get out of the shower, dry/cool down, run my hand over the top and DAMN......

Next addition to the collection of shaving gear I've accumulated has to be some cheap disposable razors that don;t have any sort of lube strips on them. Something I can leave on the shelf over the sink to nail those little buggers and not end up with the slime the lube strips can and do leave behind...Not to hijack but anyone reading this able to suggest a decent razor for the job?
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Chromeo on April 04, 2011, 02:15:19 PM
Nice video!  You looked good with hair but totally SLY without it!!!  O0
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: balddaniel on April 04, 2011, 03:26:39 PM
Ok so your new pics are figgin fantastic.  You are so attractive, pretty soon you will have to beat the ladies off with a stick  :)
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: ed.baldie on April 04, 2011, 04:33:49 PM
I'm gonna have to agree with balddaniel...you are amazingly sexy either way, but sly you look crazy hot!  O0
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: marty22 on April 04, 2011, 05:05:25 PM
both of you rock the look.
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Razor X on April 04, 2011, 07:42:35 PM
Has it been 30 days already?   :o
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: BALDANDRE on April 04, 2011, 08:15:32 PM
Bro...you look awesome...it's so cool to see a full haired guy discover that being bald is and can be so much of a cooler look and life than with hair!!!!
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: Tyler on June 05, 2011, 01:33:37 PM
After 3 months, how is your Sly journey going?
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: t3ase on June 21, 2011, 05:58:09 PM
Sorry, I got notified of your reply a while back and have been meaning to get on here. Surprised you kept track.  p!m*

I kept it slick for quite some time but lately have been letting it grow out a bit. This is ONLY due to me having less job interviews (fsck me) and not wanting to burn through cartridges just for me to sit at home and apply for jobs. When I do get out to apply in person, I just clean up a bit. Any interviews I go to, I'll clean up and shave it all off again. The boost it gives me is worth the effort.

Once things pick back up for me and I'm working or at least getting out more, I'll keep it up. Like I said, I just can't afford to burn through cartridges right now just to look sexy for myself.  ;D

All in all, it's been a very great experience. I've already talked to several around the city about shaving and my youtube video still gets hits and I'm receiving messges from people all over. I know of at least one person that took the plunge after we talked but I don't see his posts anywhere here, although I did mention the board.

It's definitely a life altering decision and one I should have made sooner.

I'm already now known as "the bald guy" to some of my acquaintances. Doesn't bother me a damn bit and in fact, I quite like the title. :)
Title: Re: Jumped right in...
Post by: balddaniel on August 15, 2012, 11:50:37 AM
I know how you feel.  I moved from CA to Florida 2 months ago.  Had an interview that went great and then a second that also went great.  They are sending my name to HR to finish up the paperwork.  If everything goes through as expected I start on August 13st.  I went to both interviews sly and smooth.  You are right about the confidence level mine went through the roof.  Best of luck to you.  I really love your video.  Keep it up handsome. 

Daniel