Women
A Woman's Guide to Shaving Your Head
August 29, 2025 • 8 min read
Thinking about shaving your head? Whether for a fresh new look, easier hair care, or a personal journey, going bald is a bold move many women embrace. Head shaving is more than just a style. It's a statement of confidence and freedom.
Our Ultimate Guide to Head Shaving for Women walks you through the whole shaving process. We'll cover everything from why women shave to the best tools, aftercare, the shaving process, and bald head problems you can encounter.
Why Women Shave Their Heads
Women shave their heads for all sorts of reasons. It's a powerful statement that can mean something different for everyone. Here are a few examples:
Expression of Identity and Confidence
For some women, a bald head is a way to express who they are. It's a bold look that screams confidence and self-acceptance. A shaved head shows that you are above the traditional beauty standards and want to show a unique style that's your own. Take a look at women who shaved their heads for a role.
Practicality
A shaved head is low maintenance. Remember, 'low maintenance' and not 'no maintenance', which is what other women may think. For starters, you'll spend less time washing, styling, and drying your hair. Great for women who are always in a rush and want a simple, no-fuss routine. Plus, you'll save money on hair products like shampoo, conditioner, and styling creams.
Wearing wigs may appeal to some, but they're hot to wear and aren't cheap. Applying those adhesives is tedious, and wigs may embarrass you when they fly off on a windy day.
Medical Reasons
Some women choose a bald head due to medical reasons. You might have alopecia, or you're undergoing chemotherapy.
Some medications cause hair loss; read about them in our comprehensive guide.
Should I Shave My Head?
Deciding to shave your head is a big decision. It will totally change your look. Knowing the Pros and Cons helps make the choice more straightforward.
Pros & Cons of Shaving Your Head as a Woman
Advantages of Shaving Your Head as a Woman
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Low Maintenance: A smooth head is a huge time and money saver vs. having long hair. You'll save time and money on hair products and salon visits. Your morning routine will also be much faster - think less than 5 minutes!
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Confidence Boost: A shaved head makes you feel bold and confident. It says to the world you're comfortable in your own skin.
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Unique Style: A bald head on a woman makes you stand out from the crowd; your facial features pop since attention is no longer on your long hair.
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Feels Amazing: Shaving frees you from the stress of balding and trying to chase the holy grail of hair growth that never exists!
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No Bad Hair Days: You can't have a bad hair day when there's no hair to look bad!
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Scalp Health: Shaving can help exfoliate your scalp, reducing build-up, scalp irritation, and dandruff.
Disadvantages of Shaving Your Head as a Woman
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Sunburn: Without hair, your head will be exposed to the sun. Sunscreen becomes a must-have when you're outdoors.
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Feeling Cold: In winter, your head will feel colder, but it's nothing that a beanie or winter hat can't fix.
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Social Reactions: Some people will have opinions about your look. Even to the extent of not being professional. It helps to have "thick skin" and confidence in these situations.
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Regrowth: Growing hair back can take time and be awkward before it fully returns.
Shaved Head Styles for Women
Even with less or no hair, you can still flaunt your style! Many women shave their heads completely, go for a buzz cut, or shave their sides. The possibilities are endless, and it's a chance to explore new and exciting styles. Check out our guide on shaved hair styles for women for more style choices.
Tools You'll Need
Investing in the right tools makes the process easier, safer, and more comfortable.
Electric Clippers/Trimmers with guards
Buying electric clippers or trimmers with guards is a good option for head shaving. You can use it for a buzz cut, a side shave, or cut your hair short before shaving it off completely.
The Freebird BeardSeries Trimmer is a good option here. It's compact, lightweight, and powerful enough to shave coarse and curly hair.
Freebird offers a 30-day trial and a lifetime warranty.
Manual Razors
If you want the closest shave, manual razors are your first choice. Although many electric head shavers can now shave as close (90%), nothing beats a manual razor regarding shave closeness.
Just be careful not to cut or nick yourself while shaving.
The Leaf Razor is a good option here. It's a plastic-free razor with a pivoting head, making it easier to shave without nicks. You can load up to three blades for a closer shave with fewer passes, which is great for sensitive scalps.
Buy from their website or Amazon.
Electric Shavers
An electric shaver is a good choice for a fast, safe, and comfortable shaving experience. Freebird's FlexSeries Kit for Women shaves close; you can dry shave in under 2 minutes. It's waterproof and has ScalpSafe blades that doesn't irritate sensitive skin. You also get gifts worth $50 (trimmer, exfoliation brush, body scrubber, cleaning brush).
Handheld Mirror
Adding a handheld mirror to your grooming kit is a must. You need a handheld mirror with your primary mirror to get a full view from different angles. It helps you see the back and sides of your head, so you don't miss any spots.
Good Lighting
Shaving with good lighting is crucial. It helps you see any patchy areas and ensures you don't miss anything. Install brighter lights in your bathroom if the lighting isn't bright enough to see clearly when you shave. With the right tools and setup, you'll feel prepared and confident in your shaving routine.
Towels
Keep a few towels handy. You can drape one on your shoulder and use it as a hair catcher, and another for cleanup. Lastly, you'll need another towel to pat your head dry after shaving.
Moisturizer
A moisturizer is a bald lady's new best friend. You must apply it daily to keep your scalp from getting dry and flaky. You can choose from our list of the best bald head moisturizers.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is also non-negotiable now that you have a shaved head. When exposed to the sun, your scalp will burn quickly, so make it a habit to put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
How to Shave Your Head: Step-by-Step
Before you start shaving, you need to know the proper steps:
Prep
Wash your hair and scalp with warm water and a gentle cleanser. This opens pores and softens hair. Pat dry head gently.
Apply shaving cream or Freebird's Soothing Shave Gel to help protect your scalp and allow the razor to glide smoothly over your head.
Trim
Use a hair clipper or trimmer to trim hair to the shortest length. This makes shaving easier without pulling and tugging.
Shave
Use your electric shaver or manual razor with light pressure. Shave in the direction of hair growth first. Carefully shave against the grain for a closer shave and see if your scalp handles it well. If not, stick to shaving with the grain.
Use your mirrors to check for missed spots. To be sure, run your fingers through your head and check for stubble. Make enough passes until the head is smooth (if you're going for completely bald).
Use clippers and guards for a buzz cut or side shave, depending on how long you want your hair. Use mirrors to see if you have an evenly shaved head.
Post-Shave
Rinse with cool water to close pores. Pat your head dry with a towel. Don't rub to avoid irritation.
Aftercare
Your shaving routine doesn't end when you pat your head dry. Most people don't know how to take care of their shaved head. Aftercare is a big part of the shaving routine.
Moisturize
Keep your head hydrated by moisturizing daily. Freebird's Refreshing Scalp Moisturizer is a good choice. It revitalizes your skin and provides lasting hydration. Freebird offers a 30-day trial, so you have nothing to lose.
Sun care
Don't forget to apply sunscreen or wear hats whenever you're outdoors. The sun can damage your exposed scalp, so protection is a must.
Common Problems & Solutions
Razor Burn
To prevent razor burn, use a quality shaver and a shave gel. Always use a clean razor and be gentle. If you get razor burn, use a cold compress or a soothing balm with aloe vera.
Check out our article on how to prevent razor burns to learn more.
Razor Bumps
You can prevent bumps and ingrown hairs by using a good shave gel and a clean, sharp razor. Exfoliating your scalp once or twice a week also helps eliminate dead skin cells that can trap hair.
Read our guide on how to prevent razor bumps for added information.
Dryness
Moisturize your scalp daily to keep it hydrated. Use a gentle, alcohol-free lotion. If your head feels tight, it's a sign it needs more moisture. For more tips on scalp dryness, read our comprehensive guide.
Nicks & Cuts
If you're using a manual razor, there's a higher chance of nicks and cuts. If you get a small cut, apply pressure with a clean cloth. Clean the cut and keep it protected. Our guide on nicks and cuts can help you here.
Using an electric shaver like the FlexSeries Pro can help avoid nicks in the first place because the blades are less exposed.
Accessorizing Your New Look
Who said bald women can't be fashionable? Now that you've got a bald canvas, you can up your style game by wearing hats, earrings, and the right clothes.
Check out our bald women fashion article for more tips.
The Bottom Line
Shaving your head is a big decision and can be a freeing experience. Many women say it gives them a fresh start, freeing them from the daily stress of hair care and the pressure to fit traditional beauty standards.
With the right tools and a good shaving routine, you'll surely enjoy your shaving experience.
FAQs
How Often Should I Shave My Head as a Woman?
You can shave as often as you want to maintain your look. For a smooth feel, most people shave every one to three days. You might want to shave more often to get used to the routine.
Should I Shave with or Against the Grain?
For the closest shave, you can try shaving against the grain. If you have sensitive skin, try shaving with the grain first to prevent irritation. You can then do a second pass against the grain for a closer feel.
How do I Prevent Razor Bumps/Ingrown Hair?
You can prevent bumps and ingrown hairs by using a good shave gel and a clean, sharp razor. Exfoliating your scalp once or twice a week also helps eliminate dead skin cells that can trap hair.
How to Protect My Scalp from the Sun?
Using sunscreen every time you're outdoors protects your head from the sun. A hat is also a great way to shield your skin from the sun's rays.
Can I Use the Same Razor for My Face and Head?
You can use the same razor for your face and head. Rinse it off after each use and keep it clean to avoid spreading bacteria.
Will Shaved Hair Grow Back Thicker or Darker?
No, shaved hair will not grow back thicker or darker. This is a common bald head myth. The hair just feels coarser because you're seeing the blunt end of the hair.
Can You Wax Your Head?
Yes, you can wax your head for a smoother, longer-lasting result. Keep in mind that waxing can be painful and may cause irritation for some women.
