Sly Bald Guys Forum

New Member Section => Introductions => Topic started by: xnewyawka on June 08, 2007, 09:59:29 AM

Title: When do you know it's time?
Post by: xnewyawka on June 08, 2007, 09:59:29 AM
Hello Guys, I am new to SBG,  finally was able to login.

I came across this site about 2-3 months ago, and from that day on I have pretty much
been coming on every day. It has really opened my eyes.
I cannot believe all the wonderful encouragement and friendly banter that goes on.

I am 43, and I'm going through what seems like typical mpb symptoms. I an not in denial
and not in the second stage, but I feel I am on the abyss.
This week I (finally) buzzed down to a 1 on the sides, blended into a 2 on top, and I love it!.
I am going to try a 1 all around when this starts to get sloppy. I have seen some posters who used an even lower setting. Can anyone help with this, I need all the encouragement they can muster.
Thanks,

Newyawka
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Argyle on June 08, 2007, 10:06:53 AM
I have gone through 'phase two' and am now have pretty much no hair on top.  The MPB thing hit me quite hard at times as it has happened in my twenties, not an easy age i think, when you are looking for the right woman etc. 

However the one thing that i wish above everything else is that i had gone sly earlier.  I used to obsess about the speed my hair was going, the way it was going etc etc.  Now, I wont lie, i have the odd moment of hating it, but most of the time i am fine with the look.  Also any comments of your losing your hair have stopped.  I get the odd baldy comment from workmates but that is all in jest to which i inform them i can wear a hat whereas they would look ridiculous in a mask! 

My point however is that i have not yet read anyone post on this site saying that they regret shaving completely.  Lots of people with apprehensions before hand, but not a single person who has come back and said what a mistake.  That must tell you something. 

You sound pretty cool with the whole thing so sounds like the best way to go is to take it down slowly when you think you need to.  The minute you start worrying about it though, shave it, its the best way!! 

Good luck
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Stu on June 08, 2007, 10:35:09 AM
I'm glad you've joined us, Newyawka.  It appears that you already know that it's time because you've buzzed it down and will be at a #1 all over before long.  I imagine you already have found some relief just from doing that -- you don't have to worry about hiding your MPB.  You don't have to think in the back of your mind about whether people you encounter are making mental comments like 'man, that dude is really losing his hair; who does he think he's fooling trying to cover it up?'  I never think negative about an MPB guy who's buzzed it down.  But the people who do all sorts of crazy things to make their MPB look good (not possible), those are the people I feel sorry for.  When you take the final leap by shaving it off, you will be amazed at the unbelievable burst of freedom you will feel.  It's difficult to explain fully until you've done it yourself.  Good luck, welcome, and post a pic when you can.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Stu on June 08, 2007, 10:41:54 AM
My point however is that i have not yet read anyone post on this site saying that they regret shaving completely.  Lots of people with apprehensions before hand, but not a single person who has come back and said what a mistake.  That must tell you something. 

Argyle, I can't recall anyone regretting it either, and the apprehensions all fly out the window as ridiculous and a lot of wasted time.  By the way, you need to change your picture because everytime I see it, I get thirsty for beer.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2007, 10:44:18 AM
Welcome to the forum.You won't regret buzzing it down further
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Argyle on June 08, 2007, 11:17:59 AM
My point however is that i have not yet read anyone post on this site saying that they regret shaving completely.  Lots of people with apprehensions before hand, but not a single person who has come back and said what a mistake.  That must tell you something. 

Argyle, I can't recall anyone regretting it either, and the apprehensions all fly out the window as ridiculous and a lot of wasted time.  By the way, you need to change your picture because everytime I see it, I get thirsty for beer.

Yeah that was a great night in Grenoble
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Tyler on June 08, 2007, 12:49:04 PM
Newyawka, welcome to Sly Bald Guys!

I agree with Stew, it sounds like it's the right time for you.  Even if you don't like it, it will only take a couple of days to back to the length that you have it now.  You can do it bro!
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: KALBO on June 08, 2007, 02:17:21 PM
Welcome to SBGs, newyawka! 8) I echo everyone else's encouragement...and from the sounds of it, you are close enough already. Why not just do it? O0
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Paul on June 08, 2007, 02:24:48 PM
First, welcome to the forum newyawka, glad to have you with us.  Second..you know it's time when you have found this site and its awesome support network.  GO FOR IT, once you do you will wonder why it took so long. 
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: zzaapp on June 08, 2007, 03:04:12 PM
Welcome, newyawka,

They say, "There's no time like the present"

You can wait a long time for the "right time", but in the end, ya just gotta DO IT!!

I found that, while it may seem like that last 1/16th is a big step, if you are comfortable with the #1,  shaved isn't much different to others around you. 

Go ahead and try it.  If you don't like it, it only takes a few days to grow a #1...
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: PigPen on June 08, 2007, 04:13:59 PM
Yeah, just do it. Oh, and welcome to SBG
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Professor Melon on June 08, 2007, 04:34:52 PM
 ;D Dear New. Argyle pretty well said it. You will not regret taking it down and then shaving it all off. This gives you a "take charge" position in your life. Many on this site have been there, and no one regrets accepting the inevitable. Just don't be seduced by pushers of rugs and transplants. I was wounded by a fall recently; you cannot imagine how eager I was to shave, to reclaim my bald identity. You'll come to it. Give it time. Re-adjust your aesthetic and you'll be fine. Let us know how you're faring. Professor Mellon
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: schro on June 08, 2007, 04:44:32 PM
I echo the sentiments expressed by Prof. Melon & everyone before.
Going sly is a cool feeling. You're kicking Mother Nature and heredity right in the cajones (ok, if she had 'em) and taking charge.

Go for it, I don't know anyone on this board that has regretted their decision to adopt the sly look.

Welcome!
Schro
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Razor X on June 08, 2007, 07:22:16 PM
How do you know when it's time?  You really don't, but the fact that you're asking the question means that the time is near.  Better to do it too soon rather than too late.  Once you reach a certain point in the balding process, it's not an attractive look on anybody and you just aren't going to look right until it's all gone (either through shaving or waiting for Mother Nature to very slowly make you completely MPB).

I always swore that I'd shave it all off once I got to that point.  I checked my scalp from every angle, under every type of lighting almost every day, and thought I was really on top of things.  Now I look back at old photos from that time and cannot believe how bald I was.  I really had no idea at the time that the thinning was as bad as it was.  Find some photos of yourself under some bright lights, or find an overhead shot of yourself and you'll know what I mean.

Believe it or not, it's a tremendous relief when the hair is finally all gone.  Don't postpone that relief any longer than you absolutely have to.

Good luck.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: SLYinKC on June 08, 2007, 08:42:37 PM
How do you know when it's time?  You really don't, but the fact that you're asking the question means that the time is near.  Better to do it too soon rather than too late.  Once you reach a certain point in the balding process, it's not an attractive look on anybody and you just aren't going to look right until it's all gone (either through shaving or waiting for Mother Nature to very slowly make you completely MPB).

I always swore that I'd shave it all off once I got to that point.  I checked my scalp from every angle, under every type of lighting almost every day, and thought I was really on top of things.  Now I look back at old photos from that time and cannot believe how bald I was.  I really had no idea at the time that the thinning was as bad as it was.  Find some photos of yourself under some bright lights, or find an overhead shot of yourself and you'll know what I mean.

Believe it or not, it's a tremendous relief when the hair is finally all gone.  Don't postpone that relief any longer than you absolutely have to.

Good luck.

I had almost forgotten what is was like to stand in front of the mirror trying to check to see to how bad the hair looked.  Sure am glad those days are over.... ::)
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: wpruitt on June 08, 2007, 09:02:53 PM
Welcome Newyawka.  Some good advice has been offered.  Take it !!
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Scott on June 09, 2007, 01:11:20 AM
Welcome Newyawka!  Some great advice has already been given, so all I'll add is that you'll soon have your hair to a #1 all over, and taking the step to go SLY is really not much further.  I was apprehensive at first, like I think everyone is or has been, but believe me, once you finally take that step and just do it, I think you will love it.  And besides, like Tyler said, you can have it grown back out like you have it now in just a few days anyway, so why not just go for it.  Just do it, you won't regret it!
Title: Re: Psyched for the next time!?
Post by: xnewyawka on June 11, 2007, 10:42:24 AM
Hey SBGuys,

First off, thanks for the warm welcomes.
Let me tell you all how amazing I feel about this new control I have over this thing.
It's like I'm suddenly free and now can't wait until I buzz down again.
All of you were correct and so far everyone loves the new "haircut".

I am going to be leaving my job here.(takeover) I believe it should be the end of this week(they haven't let us know the exact date-very frustrating.)
I am going to use that time off to experiment a bit. I am thinking maybe go down to buzz with no guard. From most I see on here , you will really be able to see what your noggin' will look like shaved.
I am psyched for this. This morning while shaving I was so tempted to take my Mach III up a bit higher on the burns.

Anyway, thanks again for the encouragement, looking forward to more. I can use all the help I can get.

PS- Paul, nice Sporty!

NY
 
Title: Re: Psyched for the next time!?
Post by: BALDANDRE on June 11, 2007, 10:49:07 AM
I am going to use that time off to experiment a bit. I am thinking maybe go down to buzz with no guard. From most I see on here , you will really be able to see what your noggin' will look like shaved.
I am psyched for this. This morning while shaving I was so tempted to take my Mach III up a bit higher on the burns.

Ok, I'm not being a pusher here...but during your "experiment", do yourself a favor, take out the mach 3 and shave your head clean and smooth...dude you will love it!

Why go almost all the way, a total shave is 2 days away from an unguarded buzz...

do the deed dude...YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT! O0
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: warhawk on June 12, 2007, 09:11:23 AM
baldandre is right!!!  man..... what r u waiting 4???  as nike useD  2 say "just do it".  i GUARANTEE that u will like the new look.  the 1st thing that u will say is "man.... i shoulda done this a long time ago"'.. ..... anyways.... just my 0.02 worth.  keep us posted and welcome 2 the sly fraternity.

WARHAWK O0
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: BALDANDRE on June 12, 2007, 09:38:38 AM
baldandre is right!!!  man..... what r u waiting 4???  as nike useD  2 say "just do it".  i GUARANTEE that u will like the new look.  the 1st thing that u will say is "man.... i shoulda done this a long time ago"'.. ..... anyways.... just my 0.02 worth.  keep us posted and welcome 2 the sly fraternity.

WARHAWK O0

OK, Warhawk...time's up bro....time to show your balded mug!

You preach the sly well my friend, but to motivate others you've gots to show the dome!!!! 8)
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: warhawk on June 12, 2007, 10:16:54 AM
i HEAR ya baldandre...... i definitely will this month.  my brother-in-law will b visiting me and wifey this month from orlando and he will help me post my avatar of my new sly look.  i'm NOT a computer genius. so.... in anything i do... i want it 2 b right.  and i don't want 2 mess up my initial avatar.  when it comes 2 computers..... i just luv 2 surf and do research.  my b-i-law is a computer geek and he will help me w/ the debut of my pic.  so look out WORLD.!!!!  all eyezzz will b on me!!!  and by the way... i want 2 shout out that i luv being sly!!!!!!!

WARHAWK O0
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Leigh_12play on June 12, 2007, 11:35:45 AM
Welcome newyawka O0, once you go Sly you wont want to go back...
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Beer Barron on June 24, 2007, 10:08:03 AM
Welcome Newyawka!
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: PigPen on June 25, 2007, 02:38:56 PM
When you start asking this question.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: BALDANDRE on June 25, 2007, 02:51:27 PM
When you start asking this question.

No truer words have been spoken O0
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: BigJimW on June 25, 2007, 04:24:16 PM
You're in New York, right? Well you have a great built in excuse if needed. I'm in Rhode Island so we're in the same season.  O0

Judging from your enthusiastic post here, it will not be needed. But it's a "plan B" if the shave does not make you look better.

It's summer. Just shave it clean, give it a good rub with some aftershave, look in the mirror, and behold.

I am quite certain you will like the results.. No, you may LOVE the results. Thats all that matters on a personal standpoint.

But if things DON'T go according to plan (if you do not like the look), just say you want to keep cooler this summer, and grow it back during the season in the fall.

There you go. Your rational to shave for the season. It worked for me when I buzzed it down last year, and it was my backup excuse if I looked like a total Conehead from SNL if it didn't go according to plan when I gave it a total shave.

But since everyone loves it, I didn't have to use Plan "B". ;)
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: jusbnme on June 25, 2007, 04:42:24 PM
Just do it bro!!! 
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: tomgallagher on June 25, 2007, 05:47:03 PM
It's only hair dude. Do it.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: BigJimW on June 25, 2007, 06:36:27 PM
It's only hair dude. Do it.

Best quote (and advice) ever.   :)
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sgt. Pate on June 26, 2007, 08:35:14 AM
newyawka,

First of all welcome!

July 4th is coming really soon... Independence Day!  You asked “When do you know it's time?” well… THAT’S THE TIME!

Your freedom awaits you bro!

~Sarge~
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: herronm on June 26, 2007, 08:59:46 AM
Good advice from Sgt. Pete.  That way you can always remember your anniversary.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: xnewyawka on June 26, 2007, 03:28:57 PM
Thanks for the welcomes and encouragement.
I have been using the motto "sly in July" and I think you are right Sarge!
That would make a great Independence Day and as herron said it would be an easy to remember anniversary.

Ok, I have my Mach III , what is a good shave gel for first timers?
I am using Gillette mach 3 comfort gel on my face.
Any other recommendations? Especially for afterward.

Thanks again guys!
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Paul on June 26, 2007, 04:46:31 PM
Hey bro..think that using HeadSlick for the first time would make the shave much easier and more enjoyable.  Use an exfoliant, (I use St Ives Apricot Scrub) before the shave , your HeadSlick, then a good cold water (or try Lances ice cubes) rinse and then a little Bald Guyz moisturizing gel to finish up.   Then for an afterwards get out there and get your first compliments and head rubs O0
Title: Re: Psyched for the next time!?
Post by: JohnMont on June 26, 2007, 05:35:08 PM

 This morning while shaving I was so tempted to take my Mach III up a bit higher on the burns.


Give in to that temptation ! then it will be all over (or rather , just beginning).  Then tell me about it, and maybe that will give me the push to do it too!
John
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Stu on June 26, 2007, 11:05:57 PM
I agree with Paul.  Headslick is awesome, lasts a long time, and works great for your face too.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sgt. Pate on June 27, 2007, 07:54:18 AM
That's awesome bro!  "SLY in July"!

I'm a die hard HeadBladder too.  CVS, Rite Aid and others carry HeadBlade products but you can get just as good of a deal going direct and getting a "Sly Bald Guy" discount!

Make your Independance Day truely special and get a HeadBlade too!

Get a HeadBlade Sport, some HeadSlick and HeadLube (Glossy or Matt).   O0

~Sarge~
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Razor X on June 27, 2007, 03:09:47 PM

I'm a die hard HeadBladder too.


 ???
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sgt. Pate on June 27, 2007, 04:03:22 PM

I'm a die hard HeadBladder too.


 ???

I am a die hard Headbladder also.  Is that better?   :*))
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Razor X on June 27, 2007, 06:31:01 PM

I'm a die hard HeadBladder too.


 ???

I am a die hard Headbladder also.  Is that better?   :*))

Um, no, not really.  I think what you mean is you are a HeadBLADER, not a HeadBLADDER, right??   ::)

Just kidding around with you.  Minor spelling error but it just kind of struck me as funny.   ;D
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: weswyatt on June 27, 2007, 07:48:23 PM
Go with what you're comfortable with - but takin' it ALL off is nice!
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sgt. Pate on June 28, 2007, 11:34:11 AM

I'm a die hard HeadBladder too.


 ???

I am a die hard Headbladder also.  Is that better?   :*))

Um, no, not really.  I think what you mean is you are a HeadBLADER, not a HeadBLADDER, right??   ::)

Just kidding around with you.  Minor spelling error but it just kind of struck me as funny.   ;D

Oh sure... NOW YOU TELL ME!   :*))

But while we're on the subject I do have this prostate issue!   :'(
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sooner Steve on June 28, 2007, 03:53:19 PM
CVS, Rite Aid and others carry HeadBlade products but you can get just as good of a deal going direct and getting a "Sly Bald Guy" discount!

Hey Sarge:  Do you get that discount every time you order or just the first time?  Just curious.
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Sgt. Pate on June 29, 2007, 08:21:53 AM
CVS, Rite Aid and others carry HeadBlade products but you can get just as good of a deal going direct and getting a "Sly Bald Guy" discount!

Hey Sarge:  Do you get that discount every time you order or just the first time?  Just curious.

I believe every time!  Ty man, is that right?   :-\
Title: Re: When do you know it's time?
Post by: Tyler on June 29, 2007, 01:30:52 PM
I believe every time!  Ty man, is that right?   :-\

Yep!  $#!zzle