Sly Bald Guys Forum

Discussions About Being Bald => To be or not be...Bald => Topic started by: Jack Daniels on October 15, 2011, 05:17:48 PM

Title: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Jack Daniels on October 15, 2011, 05:17:48 PM
Hey there,

Firstly I have to say this forum is excellent - I've been reading a few threads and the positivity is overwhelming.

As for me, I'm thinking about shaving my head, I'm interested to hear opinions though.  :-\

[Sorry for the bad quality]

(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg850.imageshack.us%2Fimg850%2F5074%2Fimg0000n.th.jpg&hash=94ed5953a44fff988582ce7994ae4d677ad3733b) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/img0000n.jpg/)
(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg404.imageshack.us%2Fimg404%2F6625%2Fimg0001rc.th.jpg&hash=7996edb18ffee8dd7c863fdd35d8b24aea134c69) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/404/img0001rc.jpg/)
(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg692.imageshack.us%2Fimg692%2F619%2Fimg0006lrdfi.th.jpg&hash=4e5343eafdda5cc253f531b95fa2762f16b9ff6f) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/692/img0006lrdfi.jpg/)
(https://www.slybaldguys.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F733%2Fimg0008uc.th.jpg&hash=197d078bf333ee1e0fcfb45b145ff3ddba73dfc5) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/img0008uc.jpg/)

If it happens that you guys think I should go sly, well, I'm a little lost as to where to start!

What sort of products would I need? What things should I look out for? Assume I know nothing, because I know about that much!
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: BaldHDbiker on October 15, 2011, 05:35:55 PM
Welcome and enjoy the forum.

I'd recommend cutting your hair cut down with clippers to get the majority of the hair off. If you have some home you could do it yourself or go to a barber and have them do it.

Then you can easily shave it bald with either a conventional razor or an electric. I use electric myself as it does a great job and is easier.

Remember it's only hair and if you don't like it after 30 days you can grow it back. :)
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: DCdome on October 15, 2011, 06:49:30 PM
Get a close buzzcut first.  That'll give you a pretty good idea of what you'll look like shaved.  If you like it, the next step is obvious.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Jack Daniels on October 15, 2011, 08:14:15 PM
Thanks for the replies.  :)

I think I'll go to get it cut short the next day I'm able.

Some of the things I'm curious about:

If I get a manual razor, are there any other products I should get - or are there any ideas anyone would recommend.

Up until now I've only shaved my face - are there good products for a post head shave?

Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: BaldHDbiker on October 16, 2011, 08:37:12 AM
Many guys use the Headblade. If you go to their website they have a video on how to use it which would be helpful for their product or any other conventional razor.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Paul the Headblader on October 16, 2011, 08:38:59 AM
I think you should go for it :)
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Jack Daniels on October 16, 2011, 09:22:11 AM
Thanks, I will check out the headblade. I'm currently looking into the best way to proceed, things to use etc.

I think I'll cut my hair short soon, then depending how that is, maybe shave fully.

I have went through years of anxiety over this, but for some reason my biggest concern right now seems to be "Will my head be cold."  :XX
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Mikekoz13 on October 16, 2011, 09:33:45 AM
Welcome to the Forum, JD!

Yes your head will be cold!! Get some nice hats!

I'm a headblader...... a word of caution about the HB. If you decide to use one, go slow and do NOT push down on it.
 It takes a little practice to get used to it.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: tomgallagher on October 16, 2011, 10:03:26 AM
Welcome to the group. Keep it simple at first. A good blade and some good shave cream and just take your time.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: D.A.L.U.I. on October 16, 2011, 10:04:47 AM
Based on the pictures you've provided I think you're right on target about where and why you're going.  It won't be long until you're deep into the "combover" mistake.  Cutting it shorter will stop that.  You'll probably also find that you will look younger--it's a common result of getting rid of long hair when mpb develops.  If you shave it down, well, you've read the posts here, it's a wonderful experience for almost every guy that's embraced the idea.  
Once you've gotten it buzzed you will also probably start wondering what you'll look like if you take it to the bone--that's the itch, so scratch it.  If you don't like it it will grow back, or at least all the hairs that weren't programed to drop out already.  
Glad you found SBG-- O0
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Jack Daniels on October 16, 2011, 10:50:47 AM
I appreciate the replies from everyone.  O0

I've taken the advice onboard about the Headblade etc - As stupid as it may sound I always thought shaving you head was a more complex thing. I imagined lotions etc being needed... quite honestly I'd never really thought about it!

I'm on the fence as to whether to try this now, or wait until spring comes around. Once I've tried it though I'll update people on the various stages.

Thanks again guys.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: D.A.L.U.I. on October 16, 2011, 11:41:16 AM
I'm on the fence as to whether to try this now, or wait until spring comes around.

Found this wisdom on the internet:

carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero  8)
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Acme on October 16, 2011, 12:33:51 PM
I'm with saintc.  You're balding which isn't a great look especially for a young guy.  Since your hair is rather long now, I'd buzz real close first just to get a little feel for it and then shave.  Remember, bald is different than buzz.  You will most likely be much happier bald than balding and it really does feel good.  And it's great not having to worry about if your hairs get messed up or if someone is looking at the bald spot.

I haven't been through a winter yet but I wouldn't worry about the cold.  Just do it when you feel you're ready and get a hat.  You won't have to worry about the hat messing up your bald head.

I have a head blade but still haven't tried it because the regular razor seems so easy and I'm worried about the learning curve.

Welcome to the group.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Laser Man on October 16, 2011, 12:53:22 PM
This is my first experience with cooler weather and the answer is "yes, your head will be cold". It's not bad, though. You just notice the cooler air and breeze more. Personally I like how it feels.

I started shaving with a HeadBlade, but now use a Fusion. Take the advice about not pushing down on the HeadBlade. You can get nasty cuts if you push down.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: kevin on October 16, 2011, 01:09:33 PM
If you are wanting to keep your hair, you could try doing what I call an extended high and tight cut.
I'm a norwood 3 and at the moment, I keep my hair on top but shave the sides to a 2 or so. I feel that keeping the side hair trimmed and shorter than the hair on top can make your hair look better. It's almost like a high tight haircut but with the hair on top cut longer. 
 

If not, give it a go shaving. You can try it and if you don't like it or get bored of the look you can always grow your hair back.
Or if you love it, you have found a new style and worrying about hairloss is over.

All the best.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Paul the Headblader on October 16, 2011, 01:11:54 PM
I've just shaved 3 times as far.
I'm using a gillette blue 3 and I'm damn fine with it.
And about the cold weather...a hat/beanie is just fine, I'm wearing on as I write :)
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: valldo on October 16, 2011, 01:52:51 PM
I would encourage you to do it, if you don't like it your hair will grow back for sure.....at least if you don't have too many Jack Daniels :x! :x!

I use the Headblade, you will need to get used to it but if you shave on a regular basis you will get to a routine pretty soon. Your head is definetely going to feel the cold....I do...but the feeling and look of a freshly shaved, shiny dome is just too much to cover it, although I have to admit sometimes I have to do it, was in Finland last winter and had to cover even my face.......
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: nuts on October 16, 2011, 03:08:38 PM
One of the nice things about having a bald dome is that you really experience the elements.  Its great when water runs over your bare scalp and you feel the breeze blowing or the sun touching your scalp.

It's like a new world.  Embrace it.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: Slynito on October 18, 2011, 02:49:28 PM
It's becoming one with with everything mother nature can throw your way....just do it! It's reversible!   :)
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: kalbo on October 18, 2011, 07:08:31 PM
Welcome to the brotherhood. First you have to be decided and committed to give sly a try. Then visit a barber and have your head buzzed with bare clippers. When you get home, bring out the shaving cream and razor. I hope you enjoy the right of passage. Best regards.
Title: Re: Thinking of shaving, would like some advice.
Post by: theebaldguy on October 19, 2011, 04:55:23 AM
Your head is definetely going to feel the cold....I do...but the feeling and look of a freshly shaved, shiny dome is just too much to cover it, although I have to admit sometimes I have to do it, was in Finland last winter and had to cover even my face.......

The nice thing about Finland is there's always a sauna to warm you back up! ;)

One of the nice things about having a bald dome is that you really experience the elements.  Its great when water runs over your bare scalp and you feel the breeze blowing or the sun touching your scalp.

It's like a new world.  Embrace it.

This ^
You may also find yourself on the receiving end of a head rub from the ladies, if you're lucky.  :@`