Sly Bald Guys Forum
New Member Section => Introductions => Topic started by: Extol on July 23, 2012, 12:04:07 AM
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Hello everyone! First let me introduce myself. :)
I'm new here (although I think that's rather obvious? ;)) and I have been losing my hair since I was about 16. I am now 22 (I live in Georgia, USA btw) and it is getting to the point where I think about it multiple times throughout the day. About a week and a half ago I was scouring the internet (don't remember for what, but it did pertain to my balding) and came across this God send of a site. I've been a "lurker" since then, checking in everyday. I absolutely DIG the positive vibe from everyone here and how supportive everyone is.
I have been one who has been wanting to try Propecia and yadda yadda for a while now... but I don't think it is "practical" or it might not work as well as I think. Thankfully, through this site... I think I want to go completely "sly" and just jump right in. Mind you, I do have my hesitation on doing it... I think most people do. It is just such a drastic change, the thoughts run through your head about moles/a misshapen head and such.
Before I do this, I think I am going to get it cut (probably buzzed at a 1 setting) tomorrow or Tuesday, just to sort of "ween" myself into it. I know, I know, most of you might say "just take the plunge!" but as you know, though your advice is sound and genuine, people tend to go at their own pace, right?
I do have some questions... what is the best razor for the job? I am torn between the HB (using Atra blades) or using this "DE" razor thing I saw. I've looked into the HB a lot and think I'll be using that. I was wondering what the best "routine" was to go about shaving ones head. Do you do it in the shower in place of shampooing? Or when you're about to shave your face? Also, I do not want a shiny-ass dome piece. Nothing against it, I know plenty of you rock the chrome very well, but I just don't think the flashy is for me. ;) So,what would I do to avoid that? What is the best way to avoid completely butchering my head so I avoid razor burn?
AHH. Soo many questions. I'll end with those, I guess. When I think of more (I'm sure I will) I know I can count on you lot to feed me with perfect answers.
PS:
This is a picture of me taken about 10 days ago. You can see how far along the thinning and recession is (and how big my noggin is!) (I am on the bottom right of this particular picture and yes that is a Newcastle beer next to me ;))
http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/428908_4270418761259_756318945_n.jpg
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First off, welcome! If I was you I'd take the clippers down to a 0.5 (without any guard) this will give you a good indication of how you will look completely sly.
As for the razors, the headblade is a wonderful tool which I would recommend, its very easy to use. As for the DE (double edge) I wouldn't recommend for a complete novice as you will probably end up ripping your head to bits. There very sharp and require abit of experience in head shaving IMO, plus your head will be sensitive at the start so I would give the DE a miss for now.
As for razor burn, soak head in warm water first, always use a clean, sharp razor and go WTG on your first ten shaves, so your scalp gets used to the shaving. Finish off with something like Nivea sensitive post shave balm, it's really good stuff.
Good luck.
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welcome. get the balls and do it. you're gonna love it
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Welcome mate, you have certainly come to the right place my friend.
As Mark said, I'd start with the HB. The DE razor is for the veteran (having said that if you DE shave your face you could probably jump into that, but I don't think that is you).
The first few times you might want to shave at the sink just so you have the mirror to help a bit, otherwise just do it in the shower, I like to shave my head at the end of my shower because it gives me the most time to get plenty of hot water on my head to help open the pores.
The standard routine is pretty much:
-wash your head
- let run your head under hot water for 3min or so
-Apply your cream/gel of choice (I really like Headslick, but there are sooo many brands out there)
-Shave WTG (With The Grain)
-Apply some more cream/gel
-Shave ATG (Against the Grain)
-Rinse with cold water
-Apply moisturiser and aftershave/balm of choice.
When your head gets used to it you might even be able to cut out shaving WTG first.
There are some very simple rules to follow if you are going to become a headblader.
1.Do not apply any pressure on the blade, if you need to apply pressure put it on the rear wheel/glide.
2. TAKE YOUR TIME! You will find you get faster with more experience, but initially slow and steady will win the race.
3. Only shave in straight lines, if you start making hook turns and trying to go back to get a spot you missed you are going to cut yourself.
Please follow these 3 simple rules, I have heard many stories of people peeling their scalps like potatoes and I would hate for it to happen to anyone!
Umm, as for avoiding razor burn... I don't really have an answer for that, I have never really had the problem with my head. but I get it on my face, and just shave every couple of days to counteract it. But I hear that Witch hazel is an amazing thing. Also initially don't go hunting for that baby butt smooth shave every time, because if you keep going over the same spot that is when you are likely to get razor burn.
If you don't like the shiney look, just look for matte products. I hear people recommend matte for men, and Headblade have their matte headlube.
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Hello Extol.
Welcome to this forum. I agree with all the abovementioned advice.
I think it is a good idea to buzz your hair down to the lowest setting to gently get into it.
Also, it is definitely NOT a good idea to try a DE on your head unless you have first mastered it on your face.
First try to get it right with the Headblade, or any other good razor like a Gillette Mach 3, at the sink where you can see nicely and you can take your time. I reccommend jumping staight into the Headblade as this is an amazing contraption that does the job very well and speedily. (once you get the nack)
Good luck whatever your decision is.
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Welcome, and Good Luck!....stay away from the Propecia.....It's not worth losing your libido over trying to keep hair that you are ultimately going to lose anyway....
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Welcome Extol. Everything the other guys wrote above is appropriate. Just take your time. Enjoy the experience. The shave is great and the surge in self-confidence is greater.
Thanks for posting your picture. You've got an ideal head for Sly - no worries about that.
The only thing I will add which wasn't mentioned is the "30 Day Rule" which you've undoubtedly seen elsewhere. Commit to maintaining the Sly look for 30 days. Shave daily. There are so many benefits, and I don't know which is more important: It toughens your scalp which makes shaving easier (and more resistant to nicks), it gives you the repetition needed to learn the various maneuvers of shaving a new area and the areas which need special attention (for me, it's just above the ears and a bit back from the temples), it gives you time to adjust to the new look (and your opinion will change from 'surprise' to 'admiration' of the Sly), and it ensures you give it enough time for others to "meet the new you."
I'm excited for you. I can sense already that this will be an incredible change for you and that you are ready and eager to make the move.
Post back and let us know how it goes.
Glad you're here.
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I think I want to go completely "sly" and just jump right in.
Satisfy your curiosity and take the 30 day trial.
Consider using the headblade and have a look at this video to get some ideas on how to shave your head.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfQXnpcFPtE
Think you will be pleased with your new sly look.
And when you have shaved your head, don't mention it to other people. Wait for others to comments.
When I went sly, I acted like I had always been sly. Got fewer comments that way. And you settle into your new look more quickly.
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Welcome and enjoy. 8)
Your idea of going to a 1 setting is a good idea. You could then shave it down using an electric for the first time if you have a good razor.
You may want to try a regular razor like a Fusion at first as the HB can take some time to get used to. Whatever you use just take it real slow and easy. Don't force it.
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Welcome Extol.
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Welcome. I agree with the guys - get a HB and take it slow for the first few shaves. Congrats on giving propecia the well-deserved finger.
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Welcome to the site, it's good to have you here. I get what you're saying about the shine, before I shaved, I was dreading it... now I love it, so don't worry about it, it's good either way.
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Hey Extol ! Welcome to SBG !
Just remember to do what you have to;
Cuz the only person truly happy is you !
Yep ... you going in right direction with that hairloss detour in life. You sound like a fun guy, so treat this slight detraction with confidence and go Shorter, shorter, shorter ... SHAVED !
Make yourself better looking than those other guys ! Besides, their noses look like pickles !
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Hey Extol: Welcome 2 the sly fraternity. Glad that ya joined us. Keep us posted to your road 2 slyness.
WARHAWK O0
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Welcome to SBG Extol!
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Jeez! I didn't expect such a quick response. Guess I should have. :)
I like everything everyone has said so far (hello to all of you! too many to name individually! :))
I went and got my hair cut today. I don't think I look too bad, head isn't horribly misshapen, and I seem to only have a couple pesky moles that are tiny... but what's this I hear about burning them off? Is it expensive?
Well, here's the pics:
http://s11.postimage.org/oay54rw76/IMAG0027.jpg
http://s15.postimage.org/z69l4gem2/IMAG0025.jpg
http://s15.postimage.org/8jx4fhaey/IMAG0023.jpg
(^ I don't think I ever realized how thin it was on top!)
My only concern is I seem to have a weird sort of ridge/bump on the very top of my head. You can see it in picture #2 and slightly in #1. I don't know if it is normal or what, or if I am exaggerating it in my own mind lol.
Anywho, I showed my friend's dad today (as he was rocking the horseshoe) the HeadBlade. He usually doesn't bother shaving his head, but when he saw how easy the HeadBlade was he ordered it on the spot. I thought that was pretty neat.
But yeah, it's late here, I haven't thought of anymore questions to ask (yet) but I'll check back tomorrow. :) thanks again for the great responses guys. I don't think you all realize how helpful this forum is to many many people.
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EXTOL---- man you must be joking right :/O a "bump"on your head i don't see any and i have two big scars on the back of my head and still i get to shave and not make a"blood bath ;D p.s. man you don have a bump you will look jut fine O0
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I don't see any bump either mate. There is nothing wrong with a bump or anything like that anyway, I think it just adds character ;D
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I looked at the photos before I read the rest of your message about "the bump."
My first reaction when looking at the pics was that you've got a perfect head for going Sly. Then, after reading your message, I went back at the photos again.
Sorry ... I don't see anything that should give you a moment's concern.
You've got a skull that's going to look great and be easy to maintain.
Enter the World of Sly.
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Bumps, ridges, scars, knots, moles....whatever...those are the very things that make our heads uniquely ours....trust me we've heard it all before....you're running out of excuses! Just kidding, but what have you got to lose by going sly?
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Go for it all the way - - -It is a wonderful being shaved bald and the look is "IN"
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and I seem to only have a couple pesky moles that are tiny... but what's this I hear about burning them off? Is it expensive?
Welcome to SBG forum.
If you live in the UK, removing the moles should be free with the NHS.
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Hey there again Extol
Some cool replies here...don't give the contour of your head a second thought, it will work out fine, you will see.
From an aesthetic point of view my moles were a slight obstacle initially but I quickly learned that moles are cheap, quick and painless to burn off.
The link to the HeadBlade clip that Mr Jules posted is certainly worth a click.
Enjoy the journey, once you take it all off... ;D
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I think you'll look 10x better SLY. Shave it off.
As far as a bump or ridge...I don't think you've got anything to worry about. I've got a slight ridge/bump in my head. David Beckham does too (as do many other male stars).
Accept it, embrace, and others will as well. O0
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Yeah I guess you guys are right. I might be exaggerating it in my own mind and it probably isn't as bad as I think it is.
In any case, I am unemployed. Do you think being sly will hinder my chances on getting a job? A lot of people in this world are pretty biased and for no reason at all.
Also, I looked into the moles thing. You can actually get them removed for under a hundred bucks, so I'm pretty stoked at that.
I had a question about sunblock and such. If I wear sunblock and were sly, I am thinking my head would be unable to tan with the rest of my body... or am I inaccurate in that assumption? I saw HeadBlade makes a sunscreen, but I was wondering what you fellas use. I live in Georgia, so it is hot as hell here. I used to live in NY so it is quite killer. :p I know for the winter time I will probably look into a beanie, but for now I would like my head to tan with the rest of my body haha.
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Easy questions, easy answers.
Job-wise, I don't think that's an issue. They're hiring for skills. Dress and act appropriately, enjoy your elevated sense of self-confidence and all should go fine. There have been many threads on this issue lately and I don't recall any of them indicating there had been a drawback at an interview.
Sunblock/sunscreen. Central Florida reporting here, so I know what you mean. I just use Coppertone the same as I use for my face and arms, etc. When I initially shaved I made it a point to spend about 20 minutes outside in the morning and late afternoon to allow some color to develop. Didn't take long for things to match up.
I dunno ... new Sly hairstyle, maybe new pants/shirt for interviewing, new job ... new life. Could be awesome!
Best to you.
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time 2 shave it off!
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Your head looks fine to me. I say, go for it!
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Let me say that from the pics you shared, your head is ripe for the picking...I mean shaving. You have nothing to worry about. It will all turn out for the better. Trust us.
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Thanks for the continued responses guys. :)
I ordered a HeadBlade Sport, the matte, and HeadSlick.
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Gotta admit I am kinda nervous though!
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Everyone is the first time, trust me O0 Just remember to take your time, your head wont be used to it. Expect a few nicks the first time. And take some happy snaps :D
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@Extol. Don’t worry, it’s OK to be nervous, and perfectly natural. Going Sly is like when your friends tell you to jump off the bridge into the river below, you get very apprehensive, even terrified perhaps, but once you take the jump, you like it so much that you cannot wait to do it again.
I must admit the non matching color of the dome and face can be a little hurdle in the beginning. Try to spend about 15 minutes in the sun every day, but not in the danger hours which are between 11:00 and 14:00. When your head color reaches the same as the skin color, then apply the sunscreen. By applying sunscreen now, your nut will stay white for a longer time than you may be happy with. Just be very careful.
I would not worry about the job interviews you will no doubt face. Dress neatly, shave, be well groomed and most important, be confident, or at least "act" confident, even if you are not deep down inside. An employer wants the job done well done; he or she is not overly concerned about a "hair style" these days.
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Thanks guys.
I have a question about the matte... if I use it, and say, spend a lot of time outside that day, will I sweat it off? If I intend to be outside most of the day, should I not even bother putting the matte on?
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Extol-don't over think this just avoid the strongest sun and enjoy man -you are free ;)and stay away from the mosquitoes or bring some repellent O0 you are alright man !
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Gotta admit I am kinda nervous though!
Sometimes people mix nerves and excitement. You might actually be excited about shaving your head. Make sure you have a steady hand when you get the razor out. Enjoy the experience.
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I have a question about the matte... if I use it, and say, spend a lot of time outside that day, will I sweat it off? If I intend to be outside most of the day, should I not even bother putting the matte on?
After shaving your head, always apply some kind of moisteriser. Sun block or matte or something else. Otherwise your skin will dry up. Adding matte will give an extra smooth feel, too. Sure your newly sly head will look pale. Give a few months and it will be all nice and blended tones.
The matte will stay on your head all day.
Go for it and have fun.
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Nice to know! So if my head dries out, does that mean I have to apply a moisturizer multiple times a day? Or does the matte do a pretty good job keeping my head moisturized? I'm waiting for my shipment to get here... don't really know when that will be, I presume by Monday or so.
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So if my head dries out, does that mean I have to apply a moisturizer multiple times a day? Or does the matte do a pretty good job keeping my head moisturized? I'm waiting for my shipment to get here... don't really know when that will be, I presume by Monday or so.
Absolutely no need to apply moisturiser multiple times a day. Once is enough.
My tip for you: ice cub on the smooth head after your shave. Cools the head and tightens the pores for extra smoothness. Make sure you pat your head gently dry with a towel. Don't rub with the towel as you may stretch the skin on your head.
And after that, apply an astringent. This tones the skin and reduces razor irritation. And makes your head feel great. Personally, I use an alcohol based hand santiser.
And after all of that, apply the matte.
Then leave the house with best sly look in town. Don't worry if you keep staring at your reflection in any shop window. Most sly guys to that, too.
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I read somewhere, don't remember the thread, but warhawk said he puts this "Witch Hazel" stuff in the freezer? Would that work as well as an astringent?
It sounds pretty interesting.
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I read somewhere, don't remember the thread, but warhawk said he puts this "Witch Hazel" stuff in the freezer? Would that work as well as an astringent?
It sounds pretty interesting.
Close... I put mine in the fridge. Believe it or not... I had some members placing it in the freezer and it actually froze. With that said... witch hazel in the fridge works great. The coolness gives an added closing of the pores to make U smooth longer. Witch hazel is also good for the skin because it's an astringent.
WARHAWK O0
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Great! Thank you. I'm curious about this Witch Hazel stuff.
So in theory,
Shave head
Ice cube
Witch Hazel
Apply the matte
and I'm ready to swoon the ladies, aye? ;)
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I read somewhere, don't remember the thread, but warhawk said he puts this "Witch Hazel" stuff in the freezer? Would that work as well as an astringent?
Witch hazel is an example of an astringent.
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Great! Thank you. I'm curious about this Witch Hazel stuff.
So in theory,
Shave head
Ice cube
Witch Hazel
Apply the matte
and I'm ready to swoon the ladies, aye? ;)
I have lead a thirsty man to some natural spring water. It is up to you to drink it. Stay thirsty bro. ;)
WARHAWK O0
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Just waiting for my supplies to get here and I'll be doing the 30 day challenge... :)
A friend of mine was shaving his head with an electric razor the other day and the guard fell off it (lol). He's naturally thinning out like I am, so now I am getting him to order the HeadBlade and take it all off since I think he looks ten fold better now.
Well on my way to recruiting more baldies. O0
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Just waiting for my supplies to get here and I'll be doing the 30 day challenge... :)
Keep us posted.
Not only will you have a new a whole new look, but you will have fine smooth head. It's a terrific feeling which you can only find out by shaving your head.
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Welcome to the site!
I just came across your thread, saw your picture, and realized that you're practically my twin. Our hair (in terms of recession and thinning) and head shape are very similar! I think you'll really like the "sly" look. Although I haven't gone completely sly yet, I've been shaving with no guard for a bit now, and have come to really appreciate how much this how helped my self-esteem. I can finally stop obsessing over my hair.
Good luck!
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Nice to know I have a twinnie out there lol.
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Ok I just got an email saying everything has shipped... has anyone ordered from HeadBlade online before? If so, was it pretty quick?
Sadly the tracking link isn't working for me. :/
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I hope it all arrives earlier so you can be on your way to sly freedom sooner.
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I got headblade directly, and I think it took just over a week for US to Aus, so I would say it is pretty quick!
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Good to know. :)
I expect it here in a few days. I have told all my friends and family I would be doing it... no negative comments except a funny look from my mother. Guess she'll have to get used to it. :P
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Hey there Extol. That's the spirit!
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Extol ... prepare to be awestruck!
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Extol ... prepare to be awestruck!
^
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You have no idea. I keep refreshing my tracking info. :/
Nervous, excited with anticipation... curious, most of all.
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I can guarantee that you'll not only be amazed with how good it looks, but how good it feels!
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Yo Bro. WELCOME!
Im new myself
Day 17 actually
I have a huge social group and Im very popular
To my surprise ...... I made the Biggest deal about taking control of my head
Most people dont say much at all. Just a few words
What I have learned about being Sly is .....
You close the nightmare of wondering what people think.
IT DOESNT MATTER!!!!
Its really about whats Inside your head and not whats On Top!
I and all my New Friends here have figured that out.
Im still in disbelief my hair is gone but NOBODY seems to care but me
For the few that just wont leave it alone ..........
My advice is to Look People in the Eye and say things like " It was time for my hair to go"!
And just like that you, get control of the moment.
Go For It!!!
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When people ask these days I just rub my head and look around at the ground and so "oh s@#!, I think I lost it"
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Yea Beardman
I like that
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When people ask these days I just rub my head and look around at the ground and so "oh s@#!, I think I lost it"
Along the same lines, I just roll my eyes up and ask "It's gone?"
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Haha! Very nice I'll have to keep all those one-liners in mind. I always say you should be able to make fun of yourself.
In any case, still waiting for delivery on my things. I suspect Monday or Tuesday, I guess. The tracking link doesn't give me very good details >:(
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Well... I did it. :P
http://s13.postimage.org/our18o9k5/IMAG0054_Peter.jpg
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I think it really works for you.
How do you like it?
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Looks great.
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Thanks FrontierGuy and Itall.
Well, FrontierGuy, I am not sure. But of course, I guess I just have to see it more. Gonna get it some more color and get rid of these moles and I'd probably be more happy with it. :p
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great!
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Thank you lol.
Feels funky. :D
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No negative comments as of yet, but I know my mom definitely dislikes it.
Also, I am not sure about my beard, I guess I can shave it off, see how it looks like that since it'll grow back, but I'm not sure what to do with it. :p
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I think you look great. I'd advise to keep the beard -- I think it looks good on you.
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Looks great. Keep the beard, too.
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Well... I did it. :P
http://s13.postimage.org/our18o9k5/IMAG0054_Peter.jpg
O0
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Thanks guys. I do really like my beard lol.
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Congrats, Extol! Looks much better.....You are now officially a Sly guy!...If you don't feel comfortable with a beard (which I think enhances your head), you could always go down to a goatee.
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I was considering giving the goatee a shot, but I've had a beard consistently for about... 2 years now. It's almost a part of me. I have a very round face, so it sort of helps me out. I also read on websites that certain face shapes (like mine) are better suited with a beard when being bald. So that the eyes are drawn more to the face. I don't have a distinguished chin. :P
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Well... I did it. :P
http://s13.postimage.org/our18o9k5/IMAG0054_Peter.jpg
U look like a natural. Congrats on your new look.
WARHAWK O0
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Thanks! Now to get that Witch Hazel stuff...
Which reminds me... where can I find that? Also, how long do I do the ice rub for?
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Most Drugstores sell Witch Hazel (look in the medicine aisle). I rub an ice cube until it melts.
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Thanks! Now to get that Witch Hazel stuff...
Which reminds me... where can I find that? Also, how long do I do the ice rub for?
You can find witch hazel in any drug store or super market. It is located near the rubbing alcohol. When I perform the ice cube rub on my face and dome. I use one cube for face and one cube for dome until the ice cube melts. Also... place the witch hazel in the fridge for an added "boost". The coolness of the witch hazel and the ice cube rub closes your pores better.
WARHAWK O0
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Thanks for clarifying you guys. :)
My head feels... rubbery? lol
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My head feels... rubbery? lol
I agree. It's a very weird feeling that no one but a Sly guy would understand.
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I will admit, the whole... ritual of shaving my head was interesting, definitely more enjoyable than my face... it's so strange!
I'll see if it loses its luster as time goes on. :p
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Congratulation!
Looks great, the bald look suits you.
Hope you'll keep it and I don't think you'll get bored of it.
Shaving is very therapeutic and addictive in the same time.
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Thanks. It suits you as well. I dig that color purple you have on in your profile pic. I'll have to keep that color in mind since it seems to go well with... sly. 8)
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Thanks. It suits you as well. I dig that color purple you have on in your profile pic. I'll have to keep that color in mind since it seems to go well with... sly. 8)
Thank you!
What I've noticed since I went sly: I haven't excluded anything from my wardrobe; everything goes great with Sly.
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Congrats ! You are meant to be sly 4 life ! Looks so much better than see-thru or worrying when the rest on top will fall out ! Rejoice !
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Thank you!
What I've noticed since I went sly: I haven't excluded anything from my wardrobe; everything goes great with Sly.
Good to know. I just really like that color purple I guess haha! :p
Congrats ! You are meant to be sly 4 life ! Looks so much better than see-thru or worrying when the rest on top will fall out ! Rejoice !
HAHAHA the "see-thru" part made me laugh, because that's so true.!
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Way to go Extol. Give it some time, you'll get used to it. Keep the beard too. O0
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Well done Peter. Happy to finally see the face...I mean the head behind the name. You look really good bald. I say keep the beard, works well with the smooth dome. Hope you stay sly.
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Thanks again you guys, I truly appreciate it.