I get ingrown hairs. Should I be concerned about shaving my head?

ANSWER:

Even if you are prone to ingrown hairs on your face, you shouldn’t be intimidated by shaving your head. First of all, head-shaving and face-shaving can be very different experiences. One reason is because the hair on your head -- as opposed to the hair on your face -- typically follows a more uniform growth pattern, making it easier to shave with the grain.

That being said, you can still approach your first head-shaving with caution by beginning with a small area that’s easy to cover up, such as the neckline. Prep the area in the same way you’d prep your face, and shave with the grain -- never against it. Follow up with a thorough rinse and an application of aftershave balm, and then wait it out. Any shaving irritation will be visible within two to three days.

If there isn’t a reaction, try again and shave a larger area, or even the entire head. But remember, no matter which part of the face, neck or head you shave, always stay with the grain.

For more tips on how to reduce the chance of ingrown hairs while shaving, check out “How to Avoid Razor Bumps."

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