Since shaving my head in 2009, I've received several questions about it from people. There seems to have been a resurgence of interest recently so I figured I may as well compile the frequently asked questions for your reading pleasure.

Did you shave your head by choice (i.e. why did you do it)?

As an awkward, scrawny, and nerdy child, I looked to the movie and television screens for aspirational male figures who were the living embodiments of those qualities opposite to how I perceived myself to be. In the Hollywood scene, these were badasses like Patrick Stewart, Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, and Dwayne Johnson. I was fortunate to look decent with a shaved head so I've decided to keep up the look.

See the quiet confidence of these men...

Do you save a lot of money by having a shaved head?

I probably do save money relating to getting haircuts and purchasing products for styling my hair. On the flip side, there is the cost of an increased frequency for shaving (more shaving products, replacement razor cartridges, etc.). I now make purchases in bulk :P

How often do you shave your head?

I've experimented over the years and my preference is now to shave once every other day. It's worth pointing out that I've talked to folks with shaven heads who shave with a frequency ranging from once/twice daily to once-a-week. Don't take this as a recommendation for how often to shave; it's a matter of personal preference. 

How long does it take?

My current routine of shaving my head + face takes about 15 minutes and it's a highly meditative practice. If in a rush, it can be done in five, but that carries the risk of making mistakes (e.g. uneven shave, cutting myself).

Which products do you use? Do you use that zamboni thing? 

Over the years, I've experimented with so many different products and routines. I'm very happy to have settled into a comfortable shaving routine now with specific products that I keep in stock. Always on the look out for new ones, but the bar is set pretty high.

The brands I've come to prefer are HeadBlade, The Art of Shaving, and Gillette. I also use argan oil, but haven't found any particular brand I prefer. As an added note, Clinique products are pretty great too.

As for that Zamboni thing... you're probably thinking of the HeadBlade ATX. No, I don't use it, but I've heard very positive reviews.

Isn't it faster if you use an electric razor to shave your head?

Yes, during my first year of shaving, I used two different types of electric shavers. I've discontinued this because I find the shave to be inconsistent and irritable. There are many people I've talked to who swear by it.

Do you ever get sunburns on your head?

Yes, three times, and they were all terribly uncomfortable experiences. Happened once at home and twice while I was travelling: in the first few months of having a shaved head (during the summer), once while hiking in Thailand, and later again hiking in Taiwan.

Probably TMI: one admittedly cool thing is the sheet of skin that peels off afterward.

Does it get cold? You know, most of your body heat is lost through your head!

Yes, but not as much as you think. I wear hats to protect my head from frigid climates like any other person would. One thing I have noticed is that I now have extremely high standards for headwear (e.g. ). Most of the headwear that apparel retailers carry feels inadequate and I shop at specialty stores.

Can I touch your head?

Maybe. Thank you for asking. It will depend on how I'm feeling. The answer is most likely to be no; I don't like my head being touched. I can understand your curiosity and sincerely appreciate you asking for permission. 

Please note that it's rude and creepy to go and touch a person's head without their consent. I imagine you'd feel similarly about a person randomly stroking your hair without your consent.

Random post, but hope you learned something new and enjoyed the post!

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Photo of me and my good friend. Joshua no hair and Joshua plenty hair.