How to Shave Your Head With a Straight Razor

Straight razors were once the primary way for men and women to shave. Today, there are far more options on the market, but some still use a straight razor in order to get an old fashioned, close shave. Most shaving aficionados will tell you that the only way to get a shave that lasts, with no nicks or bumps, is to use a straight razor. However, if you are not practiced in using a straight razor, it may be difficult to get a close, nick-free shave on your first try. Practice makes perfect with this straight razor technique, and you will get better at it with time.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric razor or scissors
• Towel
• Shampoo
• Shaving cream
• Shaving brush
• Barber's hone
• Hydrogen peroxide

1. Shave or cut your hair with an electric razor or scissors to about 1/2 inch from your scalp.

2. Prepare your scalp. Take a hot shower and rub your hair vigorously with shampoo. Rinse your head with warm water and towel dry your hair.

3. Apply shaving cream to your scalp. Consider heating up the shaving cream by running the bottle under hot water. Use your fingers or a shaving brush to apply the shaving cream in a circular motion.

4. Run the straight razor across your scalp at a 20-degree angle. Be careful not to cut your skin, but get as close a shave as possible. Shave with-the-grain of your hair. Re-apply shaving cream and shave again.

5. Rinse your scalp with cold water. If you have any cuts, dab them with hydrogen peroxide.

Tips & Warnings

• Sharpen your straight razor with a barber's hone before every use.
• Ask someone to help shave the back of your head the first few times--it is very easy to nick yourself, even if you're careful.

Resources

• Nashville Knife Shop: Straight Razors
• The English Shaving Company: Straight Razor Shaving Tips