The decision to going bald is a personal one.
A few guys I know made that choice at one point in their lives and never regretted it.
Are you ready?
The best tool and most cost-effective one is the razor. And in this guide, I’ll show you 4 of the best razors for shaving your head.
These shavers vary, and choosing one will depend on your preference.
Don’t worry, I’ll have a section on choosing the right razor for your head and what to look for.
So you’ve decided to shave it all off.
Whatever the reason you have for going bald, it is a liberating experience.
There’s no need to buy shampoo or any of that anti-dandruff crap.
It certainly looks better as opposed to having a bald spot.
Going bald has a lot of benefits, which I’ll not go into detail in another article.
Here are 4 of the best razors for shaving your head
The options you’ll see are will vary from cartridge to safety razors. I’ll also include purpose-built shavers for shaving the head.
1. Gillette Fusion ProGlide
One of the safest options and the easiest to use would be a Gillette cartridge razor.
While I’m not a big fan of Gillette when it comes to shaving your beard, this can be quite a useful tool for the scalp.
The flexible head is excellent for different contours on your head.
One advantage that the Fusion has is the pivoting head that allows for a forward, backward, and side to side movement.
Shaving your head provides a unique challenge because of its shape. Shaving the head with its round shape and contours is hard.
Avoid cheap disposables
Using a cheap disposable will require more passes because it’s rigid. Plus, these products use substandard blades that aren’t as sharp.
The flexibility of a Gillette cartridge decreases the time needed because of its flexible handle that can pivot left, right, up, and down.
5 blades will shave fast
Gillette’s Fusion ProGlide has this flexible head and 5 blades that glide on the head. If your priority is a quick shave, then spending the few extra bucks for this product will be worth it.
The Flex handle also allows this to shave the hair off hard to reach areas on top of the head or behind the ears – areas that a fixed head razor will have difficulty shaving.
The biggest issue here would be the multi-bladed design that could potentially cause irritation if you go over an area more than once.
But if you shave every other day, the irritation issue shouldn’t be an issue.
What makes the Gillette Fusion ProGlide a great option?
1. Shallow learning curve: The flexible head makes this tool forgiving and idiot-proof so some extent. Not only will it pivot back and forth, but it’ll also go from side to side, giving it flexibility not found in other products in this list.
2. Efficient: This razor has 5 blades so it’ll cut close without having to go over an area several times
3. Flexible head: The Gillette Fusion head can flex like no other razor can and allows this to shave difficult areas faster without having to change your grip multiple times.
Some not so good points
1. Price: Refills will cost over $20, and it will add up over time if you shave every other day
2. Irritation: This razor has 5 blades, and using this every day can irritate the scalp. Make sure to prep well using a shaving cream after a hot shower.
There are different ProGlide variants, and these include:
Refills are available in Amazon that range between $23 and $50 in Amazon.
The reason for this is its pivoting head that can go from side to side. This enables it to reach areas a stiff headed razor won’t be able to like the area behind the ear.
2. HeadBlade ATX All-Terrain Razor
At first glance, you’d think that this is an All-Terrain Vehicle.
But it isn’t, it actually is a razor for shaving your head.
I’ve seen lots of gimmicky products over the years, but this one seems legit getting a lot of praise from forums and blogs.
Unique design
This product was design in a way that makes shaving as simple as rubbing your head.
It has a cartridge blade attached to a spring mounted adapter.
This device is attached to a body shaped like an ATV with two wheels behind the blade.
In a way, this product is similar to a cartridge razor, but the difference lies in how you use it.
Here’s a product demo…
The most significant difference would be the length of strokes. In a cartridge razor, you’d typically use short strokes, but with this product, you can use long strokes with very little pressure. Less pressure equals less irritation.
Good ergonomics
Don’t let the product images online fool you, this product is quite small.
It has a rubberized loop on top where the middle finger rests. The ring and pinky rest comfortably on the frame at the back. There’s also a slot for the pointer, so it is comfortable to use.
If you have large hands, you may not be able to fit the middle finger through the loop.
Getting the hang of this should not take long, even with the difference in technique.
Make sure to watch the videos to get you up to speed.
Out of the box, this product comes with HB4 razor, but you can also use the Gillette Atra Plus and Schick Ultrex blades as alternatives.
There are two different color options – the yellow/black combo and the all-black combo. Another option is buying the full set that includes the shaving cream and extra cartridges.
However, that option will be more expensive – at close to forty bucks!
What makes this a good option?
- Intuitive design: This product explicitly designed to shave your head.
- Time saver: If it takes 10 minutes to shave with a cartridge razor, this will take around 2 minutes.
- Compact: The compact size will not take a lot of space at all (this product is literally the size of a small toy). If you make a lot of business trips, this can be a great travel companion, and since it doesn’t have a motor, it will not suddenly buzz inside your luggage and alert the TSA.
- Shallow learning curve: it doesn’t take long to learn how to use this, but make sure to watch the video for the proper grip and technique.
- Easy to change blades: this product is similar to a cartridge in that it uses a cartridge and HeadBlade makes it easy to replace these
Not so good points
- You may experience a few nicks and cuts during the first few shaves.
- It will not shave as close as a cartridge or safety razor, but HeadBlade did this to make it smoother and less irritating.
- The need to buy an adapter if you want to use regular cartridge refills, otherwise you’re stuck with the refills Headblade sells, which is slightly more expensive.
- Maybe a little tricky to use around the ears.
If you want something that’s easy to use and you like gadgets, this is the razor for you. It also makes a perfect gift if you’re running out of ideas.
3. Safety Razor
Photo of an old Gillette safety razor. Yes! Gillette used to make them.
The safety razor is having are gaining popularity in the market, thanks to Video Bloggers like Nick Shaves and GeoFatBoy.
One significant advantage a safety razor has over a Gillette cartridge would be an irritation-free shave when done right.
You’ll have lots of options like the Merkur Classic 2-piece (or the 34C) or the Parker 99R. Both are mild razors, which make it very safe to use on your mug.
Since it has only one blade, their minimal risk of irritation provided that you follow the time tested principles that men use over centuries.
Shaves closest
This will cut closer than any electric, cartridge or disposable out there. But you’ll have to learn how to use this tool the right way.
This is not something that I’d recommend for absolute beginners because of the thick head that could result in a lot of nicks.
It is easily the cheapest option when it comes to cost and trumps a cartridge and electric razor easy.
Using a safety razor requires focus and a steady hand because you will need to hold it at a 30-degree angle. Failure to do such will result in a bloody mess.
Master technique first
Before using this on your head, master the procedure on the beard first. And don’t forget to prep your scalp before shaving, such as taking a hot shower and applying shave cream.
These are essential steps to ensure a comfortable shave. Another thing to consider would be the blades to pair up with these razors.
There’s no such thing as the best blade because each of our skin types is different. Some men would prefer a not so sharp blade because they may have sensitive skin.
Others with wiry hair may need something sharp, so your mileage may vary.
Great safety razor for shaving your head: Merkur 34C
This is a favorite in the wet shaving community because of its non-aggressive design that results in a comfortable shave. And this same comfort is translated on the scalp.
The thick handle and knurling help give it a reliable grip. Weight is also another plus, so you don’t need to apply a lot of pressure.
It has a short handle which makes it easy to handle in tight areas. If you need something with a longer handle, then take a look at the Merkur 38C.
What makes this a great razor is its versatility. And when I say this, I mean you can pair this with different blades depending on your skin and hair type.
Men with tougher, hard to cut hair can use a sharp Feather blade. For men with sensitive skin, a smooth blade like a Personna is a good option.
What makes a Merkur 34C a great option?
Great bang for the buck – after an initial investment of around $34, you don’t need to spend much afterward because DE blades are cheap.
You can get a decent blade for less than 10 cents per. This means you can replace it pretty much every day and still spend less than a cartridge refill.
1. Close shave without irritation: Thanks to its single blade design, a safety razor will shave close and yet not irritate the skin. This is an excellent option for men who may have a sensitive scalp.
2. Flexibility: One significant advantage a safety razor has over a cartridge or disposable is the ability to choose a specific blade to fit your needs. Need a really close shave?
Then opt for something like a Feather blade that’s as sharp as can be.
Need something smooth?
Then an Astra or Personna might be a great option.
Why this may not be for you?
1. Learning curve: This tool isn’t something an absolute newbie can use. You’d have to hold the razor in such a way that it maintains around a 30-degree angle, or you’ll risk a lot of blood loss. But mastering it is worth the effort because of how close it can shave without irritation.
2. Time: It takes longer to shave with a safety razor because of its stiff head. You’ll need to carefully maneuver it around the different contours. The single blade design means you’ll need more passes for a close shave. So that takes time, which some of you might not have.
Gillette Mach 3
Here’s another Gillette on this list. This time it’s the Mach 3 by Gillette.
This is the first multi-bladed (3 to be exact) that Gillette introduced to the market more than a decade ago. And it’s still a favorite among men and even some women because of the combination of comfort and closeness.
Not as much irritation
With just 3 blades, it won’t irritate the skin as much as a Fusion. And this is an excellent alternative if you don’t have time to spend learning the intricacies of using a safety razor.
Mach 3 is much easier to clean because there’s more space between the blades.
It’ll last longer because of that feature alone.
Like the Gillette Fusion, this is another option for men (or women) who’d want something easy to use.
Availability shouldn’t be an issue as this product is available in most groceries and pharmacy outlets in North America.
What makes this a great option?
1. Easy to use: Anybody can use this out of the box. If you don’t want to spend the time needed to learn how to use a safety razor, this is another good alternative.
2. Sharp blades: One thing that separates the Mach 3 from cheap disposable razors is the sharp and durable blades. You’ll get more mileage than any other disposable.
3. Comfort strip: Formulated to help soothe the skin while shaving. And it has a micro-fin feature that helps hair follicles stand.
4. Diamond coating: All three blades have diamond coated blades that protect it from corrosion, helping it last longer.
The downsides
1. Expensive refills: Even if the Mach 3 refills are cheaper compared to the Fusion, it is still costly compared to a safety razor.
Shaving creams for shaving your head: Some great options
Having a good quality razor is only one part of the equation. The thing you need is good shaving cream. You actually have different options – shaving cream, shave gel, or shaving soap.
All three accomplish the same thing, which is adding a layer of lubrication.
Depending on the product you buy, some will create lather, and others don’t. Whether or not you want something that lathers will all be personal preference.
Consistency will also vary depending on the ingredients. What’s essential is buying something that contains natural ingredients.
If there’s one thing you should avoid, it would be aerosol shave gels in a can. These products contain alcohol that could potentially dry the skin.
Okay, with that out of the way, let’s have a close look at three good quality shave creams for the head.
Both these products don’t require a shaving brush to apply. Some men prefer to use one, while others don’t just to save on time.
1. Cremo Cream
Cremo Cream is unlike any other shave cream out there.
Unlike traditional shave creams that have a thick lather, Cremo will not lather after the initial rubbing.
It contains slick molecules that’s when mixed with water becomes very slippery without the lotion feel.
With this on your head, the blade will literally glide over skin, protecting it from razor burn.
Another advantage of a latherless cream is visibility. You can clearly see areas that need more shaving.
All you need is a pea-sized drop to cover your head. For best results, use hot tap water to activate it.
When you feel like it’s drying out, sprinkle some hot water to reactivate.
In terms of value, it’s hard to beat this. A tube will cost less than $6, and that will last for 3 months.
If you shave every other day, this will work great.
Cremo also uses natural ingredients like Macadamia seed oil, Calendula extract, lemon extract, papaya extra, and olive leaf extract. It does not contain any parabens, so it’s safe for long term use on the skin.
2. HeadBlade HeadSlick
The HeadBlade HeadSlick comes from the same makers of the HeadBlade razor. Like the Cremo Cream, this product does not lather like traditional shaving cream, but it has a lotion-like texture that you may or may not like.
Unlike the Cremo Cream, HeadSlick is formulated for your head. It does not contain any parabens or alcohol, which makes it suitable for the skin.
This shave cream is exceptionally slick and economical – a bottle will last up to 100 shaves. So if you shave every other day, it’ll easily last up to 5 months.
It is water-soluble, so blades will rinse off quickly. If you’re buying the HeadBlade razor, then consider getting this because both are designed to work with each other.
This product also contains menthol, so expect a cooling, tingly sensation.
Shaving your head the right way: A how-to guide
Now that you know the right tools to shave your head let’s now move on to the how-to.
Don’t be intimidated by the prospect of shaving the hair off your head.
With the right tools which I’ve shared with you and the proper technique, it shouldn’t be hard.
The process will take some getting used to, but once you’re up to speed, it’s going to be a smooth process.
1. Trim off long strands of hair down to stubble using a clipper without the guard.
2. Take a hot shower before shaving and not after. Hot water will help soften hair follicles, making it easier to shave. Having a bath also helps remove any dead skin and other contaminants that can hinder the razor.
3. Apply shaving cream to add that layer of lubrication to help the razor glide. Make sure your head and hands are hydrated with hot tap water during application.
4. Shaving time!
Always start shaving with the grain. (1) That means you begin cutting from the top of your head, going down the front. Use slow and light strokes, don’t apply any pressure. (2) After doing the top, move to the sides, start from the top going to the ears. (3) The last step during the first pass is doing the back with the grain. This means from the top of the head going down.
5. Rinse with hot water and then soap with a hot towel in preparation for the second pass (optional).
6. If you’re going for that smooth bald look, then do a second pass against the grain, so do everything opposite. This means from the front going to the back, sideburn area to the top on both sides, and the neck to the top of the head on the back.
If you’re feeling any irritation going against the grain, just go across the grain. This means going from side to side.
7. Do another rinse to remove excess shaving cream and check to see if there are any hairs left.
8. Lastly, apply post-shave to soothe any irritation or razor burn. Preferably use something with UV protection if you’re going outdoors.
The verdict
There you have it 4 different tools for head shaving at your disposal. Choosing one will depend on your preferred skill level and budget.
Why the Gillette Fusion?
A Gillette Fusion is our number one choice because of the flexible head that pivots sideways as well as back and forth. This flexibility makes this razor very easy to use on a contour filled area like the scalp.
Reaching areas behind the ears isn’t an issue as well, thanks to this feature—a couple of points – irritation and cost. Refills cost more than $20, and it adds up over time if you shave every day.
It may cause irritation.
The 5 blade cartridge can cause irritation if you shave every day, but this product requires very little skill to use. That’s the tradeoff you should think about before purchasing this.
HeadBlade is a unique option that’s easy to use
The HeadBlade All-Terrain shaver is another option for men who’d like to try something different. It’s the most unique of the razors here with a finger grip that resembles an ATV.
Even if it requires a different technique to use, it’s still easier to learn compared to a safety razor. The refills are also cheaper compared to Gillette.
A safety razor is good, but…
A safety razor would have made it to the top of the list of it were easy to use, but it isn’t.
Using this product will require a skill level, but the benefits are worth it.
In the hands of a skilled shaver, not only will this product shave close, it’ll do it without irritation because it only has one blade.
It’s also the cheapest because a decent blade will cost less than 10 cents!
For shaving the head, the Merkur 34C is an excellent option because it’s not overly aggressive, but make sure to take all the necessary steps before shaving.
Mach3 will have less irritation and cheaper.
If the Gillette Fusion is too expensive or irritating, then you can opt for the milder Mach 3.
It lacks the side to side movement of the Fusion, but it won’t cause as much irritation because it has fewer blades.
And the refills are also cheaper, so it’s something to look at.
Recommended Reading
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