I have decided to shave my hair tomorrow, but I have some questions I'd like to ask first:

Will disposable razors do the job and approximately how long will one last if used every morning?

Do I shave against or with the grain?

Do I have to apply shaving cream/gel every time I shave or will water work?

Do I have to apply aftershave?

How hard is shaving for an absolute beginner?

Is there something I should apply before I go out?

And the question I've always wondered..... - do bald people use shampoo?


P.S, I have sensitive skin that dries easily.

Hi,

1.  Disposable razors are a poor choice for head shaving.  Sure, they may work decently the first time or two, but you're probably getting more value (and almost certainly a more comfortable shave) if you get a nicer razor.  With some ingenuity you can make cartridges for 3, 4, or 5 blade razors last a couple weeks or even longer.  Check the forums for tips on making carts last longer.

2.  Since you say you have sensitive skin, you may want to try your first shave with the grain only.  Though once many of us get that far we want the baby butt smooth feel that can only be achieved shaving against the grain.  You just have to experiment!  Here's to no irritation...

3.  With cheaper shaving creams and most canned stuff you usually want to reapply before you re-shave a certain area.  With nicer creams and soaps you can usually just re-wet your head and keep going.  Try applying a shaving oil or plain baby oil under whatever cream you use and you should find that re-wetting will do the trick mostly.

4.  If you have sensitive skin that dries easily, you'll probably not want to use alcohol-based aftershaves.  There are plenty of great aftershaves and balms out there that are alcohol-free.  After I shave I do a few cold water splashes followed by a splash of witch hazel, and sometimes I'll use some Nivea Sensitive After Shave Balm.  Again, you just have to experiment and find the best routine for you!  Some guys use lots of prep and aftercare products and others find minimalism is the best way to shave.

5.  An absolute beginner as in never even shaved your face?  Not going to lie, you're going to cut yourself a few times.  It won't be bad.  Just be prepared with some TP or styptic pencils and you'll be fine.  If you have shaved your face before then shaving your head shouldn't be a big deal.  There are a few subtleties that you'll discover, such as small crevices you didn't realize you had and the skin on your head doesn't have as much "give" (not as pliable as your face).

6.  Always use sunscreen!  Any kind will do, though some guys on here will suggest not to use certain ones that contain certain chemicals (oxybenzone, etc.)

7.  I don't use shampoo.  Regular ole bar soap or shower gel for the head and face.  I'll exfoliate my head every other shave or so with some apricot scrub.