Preparing your head for the bald shave If you’ve never shaved your head, or it’s been a while, a little preparation goes a long way for a clean, smooth shave. First of all, you’ll want to keep the area you’re shaving in clean. Lay down cloth or newspaper so it’s easier to clean. Use an old t-shirt or poncho to keep the hair off your clothes. You are going to be working on all sides of your head, so if you feel you have to be able to see, make sure you set up a pair of mirrors. Use scissors to cut very long hair, and move to clippers to crop your hair as short as you can – usually a quarter of an inch is optimal. Try to use with a guard or guide and be careful not to get the teeth into your scalp. At this point you probably resemble a marine recruit who just had an appointment with a drunk barber. Don't worry; it'll all be gone in a little while. Prior to shaving, get your head as wet as possible. It’s easiest to shave after a shower. A wet scalp will reduces the chance that you'll suffer from razor bumps or ingrown hairs. Apply a shaving lubricant and get it worked in as well as possible by using a shaving brush or your fingers. Massage it in a circular manner, stimulating your scalp.