Hi Steve,
Welcome to SBG. I've never been in your shoes but I would have been devastated to have started losing my hair at 16. I would have tried anything and everything back then. If you had a totally bald head back in the late 70's - early 80's, it was not the norm. Today, it is totally normal for a dude to have a smooth head. You won't be looked down upon. Sure it may take your friends and family time to get used to it, but you should give it the 30 day trial run. I'm almost at 60 days and loving it.
Steve - shave it smooth. It is a huge confidence booster and it gives the impression of confidence to everyone you meet. Good luck.