How to Shave the Back of Your Head With a Razor

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Shaving your head is an attractive look that you can achieve at home with electric clippers or a razor. Although shaving your own head is easy once you learn how to do, it may take time for you to perfect your technique. After you shave your head, take extra special care of your scalp to keep it healthy.

1. 1

   Remove the guard from your clippers for the closest possible shave. Although your shave won't be as close as a razor shave, it will give you a bald result with less friction. This means you're less likely to experience irritation and redness post-shave.^[1]

   • If you'd like a little bit of hair left, you can use a 1 guard.
   • You may want to lay down newspapers before you shave your head to collect the excess hair.

2. 2

   Clip your hair in the opposite direction of your hair growth. Normally, you'd shave your hair in the direction of the grain. However, this isn't necessary with clipping because you won't get as close of a shave as with a razor. Additionally, clipping hair with the grain is really difficult, as it's hard to clip the hair if you're moving the clippers over the top of your hair.^[2]

3. 3

   Start at the sides of your head where your sideburns begin. This is usually level with the middle of your ear. Place your clippers against your skin and move them upwards toward the crown of your head. Make several passes until you reach the area behind your ear.^[3]

   • If you feel more comfortable starting on a different section of your head, that's okay. Do what's easiest for you.

4. 4

   Move from top to bottom when shaving the top of your head. Position the clippers at the top of your forehead. Then, slowly glide them back toward the crown of your head. Stop shaving when you reach the back of your crown.^[4]

5. 5

   Shave from bottom to top when finishing up the back. Place your clippers at the nape of your neck. Next, slowly bring the razor up toward your crown. Continue working your way across the back of your hair until you've shaved your entire head.^[5]

1. 1

   Buzz your hair with a pair of clippers first, for best results. Remove the guard or use the 1 guard so your hair is cut very close to your scalp. This will reduce the resistance on your blade and help you get the closest shave possible.^[6]

   • As an alternative, go to a barber or stylist to get your hair buzzed short.
   • You can skip this step if your hair is already less than about .25 inches (0.64 cm) short.
   • You may want to put down some newspapers to collect the hair as you trim it, especially if your hair is very long.

2. 2

   Shave your head after a warm or hot shower so your hair will be softer. Warm or hot water opens your pores and softens your hair. This allows the razor to more easily slide over your head, so you end up with less irritation after your shave.^[7]

   • Don't worry about drying your hair after the shower, as wet hair is easier to shave. However, it's okay to pat your head to remove excess water if it's dripping down your face or otherwise bothering you.
   • As an alternative, run warm water over your head for a few minutes before you shave.

3. 3

   Use a new blade every time you shave your head to minimize irritation. A dull blade will cause more friction, which may leave your scalp red and itchy. Additionally, it can lead to clogged pores or ingrown hairs.^[8]

   • You can reuse your blade to shave other areas if you don't want to throw it away.
   • It's best to choose a razor with 3-5 blades, which will provide a better shave in a single pass. You don't want to run the razor over your head more than once, as this will cause irritation and possibly redness.

4. 4

   Apply shaving cream to your head so the blade slides over it easily. Work the cream into a lather, then slather it onto your head. Shaving cream helps you avoid a razor burn. Plus, it makes it easier to see where you've already shaved.^[9]

   • If you have very sensitive skin, you can also apply a shaving oil to your scalp before you apply the shaving cream. The oil provides an extra barrier to protect your scalp. Additionally, it allows the razor to more easily slide over your skin.^[10]

5. 5

   Slide your razor in the direction of the grain of your hair. Make firm, steady strokes from front to back. Do your best to make just one pass over each section of your scalp, as multiple passes will cause skin irritation.^[11]

   • Going with the grain will reduce irritation and lower your risk of ingrown hairs.

6. 6

   Start with the top of your head. The hair on the top of your head is usually thinner, so it's easier to shave. Place your razor at the back of your crown, then pull it forward toward your forehead. Continue making even strokes until the top of your head is clean-shaven.^[12]

   • In addition to your hair being thinner on top, you also can see the top of your head more easily than you can see the back. It's best to work from the easiest section to the hardest section because you'll develop a rhythm as you shave.
   • Use a handheld mirror to check your work, as necessary.

7. 7

   Do the sides of your head next. Place your blade just above the side patch of hair. Then, pull your razor down in an even stroke, stopping once you reach the top of your sideburns. Once you finish the first side, switch to the other side and repeat.^[13]

   • The hair on the sides of your head is thicker than the hair on the top, but it's also still visible when you look in the mirror.
   • Check your work in your handheld mirror as necessary.

8. 8

   Shave the back of your head last, as it's the hardest. Position your blade at the back of your crown, then pull it down toward the nape of your neck. Make slow, even passes with your blade until your head is completely shaved.^[14]

   • Take your time, as you likely won't be able to see what you're doing.
   • Use your small handheld mirror to check your progress. It's helpful to take a look after each pass with your razor, but this isn't necessary.

9. 9

   Rinse your blade in hot water after each pass with your razor. This keeps your blade clean and free of hair buildup. A clean blade will cause less irritation and is less likely to clog your pores.^[15]

   • While it's best to rinse your blade in running water, it's also okay to rinse it in a clean cup of hot water.

10. 10

    Pull your skin taut to minimize wrinkles and grooves. Use your free hand to lightly pull down on your skin near where you're shaving. This will make your skin temporarily smooth. Since a razor provides a closer shave, it's best if your scalp is as smooth as possible. Otherwise, you're more likely to nick or cut your skin.^[16]

1. 1

   Rinse your scalp with cold water after you shave to close your pores. Step into the shower for a quick rinse. Not only will this seal off your pores, it will also rinse off any little hairs that stuck to your skin as you were shaving.^[17]

   • You don't need to shampoo your head, but you can use a mild shampoo or soap if you would like.

2. 2

   Apply aftershave to your freshly shaved scalp to reduce irritation. Opt for an aftershave lotion or balm if one is available. These formulas are better for the sensitive skin on your scalp than splashes. However, an aftershave splash is better than going without it.^[18]

   • If you're going to be shaving your head often, it's a good idea to invest in an aftershave that's formulated for your scalp. You can find these products near the shaving supplies at your local department store or online.

3. 3

   Use a styptic pen or alum block to treat any nicks or cuts. Look over your head to check for spots that may be bleeding. Apply the styptic pen or alum block to the nick or cut. This will stop the bleeding and disinfect the wound.^[19]

   • You can find a styptic pen or alum block at your local drugstore or online.

1. 1

   Wash your head daily with a gentle soap or shampoo. Put a pea-size amount of cleanser in your hands and work it into a lather. Then, rub the lather into your scalp to clean away the sweat and grime that naturally build up over the course of the day. Rinse with warm water.^[20]

   • Dandruff shampoo can help with dry scalp, if that's a problem for you.^[21]
   • Avoid using harsh cleansers on your scalp, as it's more sensitive than the rest of your skin.
   • It's best to limit your showers to once a day so you don't dry out your scalp.

2. 2

   Apply a moisturizer to your head at least twice a day. You can use face or body moisturizer, but it's best to use one formulated to protect your scalp. Slather it on in the morning and evening, especially if you've just taken a shower.^[22]

   • Moisturizer helps prevent dry patches and wrinkles. Additionally, it helps your scalp look freshly shaved for a longer period of time.
   • If you're worried about shine, look for a moisturizer labeled as matte.

3. 3

   Protect your head from the sun using sunscreen or a hat. Choose an SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen, and apply it at least 15 minutes before you leave home. Additionally, re-apply your sunscreen every 2-4 hours while you're outdoors. As an alternative, you can wear a hat for sun protection.^[23]

   • Your shaved head will be very vulnerable to sunburn, which can cause skin damage, pain, and skin cancer.
   • Follow the recommendations on your particular sunscreen when deciding how often to re-apply it.

4. 4

   Put antiperspirant on your scalp before bed if excessive sweating is an issue. Normally, your hair collects the sweat beads that form on your head from natural perspiration. Unfortunately, sweat has nowhere to go but down if there's no hair there to catch it. Luckily, antiperspirant offers relief if your sweat is bothering you. Simply apply it to your scalp before bed to allow it time to soak into your skin.^[24]

   • Spray on antiperspirant is the best option for your scalp, but you can use a stick or roll on if that's all you have.
   • It's okay if you shower in the morning. The antiperspirant will still help control sweat because it's already soaked into your pores.

5. 5

   Shave when re-growth becomes noticeable. It's easier to shave hair when it's less than .25 inches (0.64 cm) long, so try not to let it grow longer than this. However, you don't want to shave your head too often, as this can cause irritation.

   • Try to shave your head no more than once a week. If weekly shaves still cause irritation, try going a little longer between shaves. As an alternative, you could add a shaving oil to your routine or apply moisturizer more often.

Add New Question

• Question

  How do I keep my shaved head (my hair's shaved right off to the skin) as close as when I've just shaved it all the time. Also, how do I also get rid of the visible 'hair line' around my head? Thanks

  

  Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.

  

  Professional Hair Stylist

  Expert Answer

  

  Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

  If you shave your head 1-2 times a week it will keep stubble to a minimum, but depending on the texture, color, and density of your hair it may not be possible to prevent a shadow. Conditioning the scalp with oils will help the hair feel softer and appear less noticeable.

• Question

  How often should one shave his head? Should I shave every month?

  

  Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.

  

  Professional Hair Stylist

  Expert Answer

• Question

  How do I shave my head if I am a girl?

  

  The steps are the same for people of any gender, you don't need to do anything differently.

• Question

  Will shaving my head help get rid of lice?

  

  Yes. Lice can only live on hair. If you have no hair, the lice will have nowhere to live. You have to shave it completely, though.

• Question

  Could a girl shave my hair for me?

  

  Yes, if she has experience shaving and you trust her. Though shaving is easy, it is also easy to get cut, so make sure she knows what she is doing.

• Question

  Can I use my pet's clippers?

  

  Not a good idea. It's easy to nick yourself with clippers, especially if inexperienced with them, and an infected cut doesn't look good on a shaved head.

• Question

  Are there any perks to shaving my head?

  

  You won't have to worry about washing, combing, and styling your hair (though you may want to put sunscreen on your head). And you'll swim faster!

• Question

  Where does the hair go? Is it OK to send it down the drain?

  

  No, it will clog the drain. If you're doing it above a bathroom sink, line the sink with a couple of paper towels before you begin, and dispose of the hair in the rubbish once you're complete.

• Question

  Is it possible to shave my head with scissors?

  

  No, because it won't remove all the hair from your scalp. Only clippers can do it and then use razor and shaving cream.

• Question

  How do I heal my cuts, razor burn, etc?

  

  Use a styptic pen, for cuts. Rub on aloe vera, to soften so you can prevent razor burn. If razor burn already occurred rub a thin layer of aloe vera onto the area that it occurred. (if aloe vera isn't available use coconut oil or lotion.) If you need more info, scroll up to #6 on "How to get rid of razor burn fast."

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• If this is your first time shaving your head, it's likely your head will be paler than the rest of your face. To prevent this, you can cut your hair very short a few weeks before you shave your head. This allows the skin to get a little more tan.

• Keep a towel or washcloth nearby so you can wipe away any shaving cream that starts to drip down your face.

• Exfoliating your head before you shave can reduce the risk of clogged pores on your shaved head. Rub a face or body scrub into your scalp, using circular motions. Then, rinse your head completely.^[25]

• Don't shave your head more than you need to in order to maintain your look. If you shave too often, your scalp may get irritated.

• Never use chemical depilatories, such as Nair, on your head, as these are extremely harsh on the skin and are dangerous if they come into contact with your eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Clippers
• Comb (optional)
• Handheld mirror to check progress (optional)
• Newspapers (optional)

• Clippers (optional)
• Razor
• Hot water
• Shaving cream
• Shaving oil (optional)
• Handheld mirror to check progress (optional)
• Newspapers (optional)

• Aftershave
• Cold water
• Styptic pen or alum block

• Gentle soap or shampoo
• Moisturizer
• Sunscreen
• Hat (optional)
• Antiperspirant (optional)
• Razor

About This Article

Article SummaryX

To shave your head with electric clippers, start by removing the guard on the clippers, which will give you the closest shave possible. If you want to leave some hair, use a 1 guard. Then, starting with the sides of your head, clip your hair in the opposite direction it grows in. When you finish the sides, shave the top of your head, working from your forehead to the back of your head. Finally, shave the back of your head by going from the bottom to the top. For more tips from our Cosmetology co-author, like how to shave your head with a razor, scroll down!

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How to Shave the Back of Your Head With a Razor

Source: https://www.wikihow.com/Shave-Your-Head

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