1. Cut it. The first step in shaving your head properly is to get out your scissors. Beginning with a razor will result in an uneven shave and can become a skincare nightmare. So, your first goal is to use your scissors to cut as much hair as you can. Once you’ve completed this step, get into the shower and wash off all the newly cut hair.

2. Trim it. After getting out of the shower and drying your hair off, the next step is to use an electric beard or hair trimmer. Make sure the trimmer is clean so the blade will cut evenly. If your trimmer is dirty, use some rubbing alcohol to sterilize it. Next, set the blade to its lowest setting. Run the trimmer from the front of your head toward the back to make sure all the hairs are cut in the same direction. Finish by getting into the shower again to remove all the cut hairs.

3. Shave it. When it’s time to get out the actual blade, the first thing you need to do is prep your skin by opening up your pores. The best way to do this is to run a washcloth under hot water for a few seconds and then apply to your head. Next, coat your head evenly with shaving cream; use a cream designed for sensitive skin, such as ZIRH Shave Cream, because the skin on your head is delicate. Make sure to wash the razor often, keeping it clean for an even shave. Finally, splash on some aftershave to soothe and cool your head. Use a good quality aftershave like AHAVA Men’s Soothing After Shave Moisturizer.

4. Finish it. Finally, use a hand mirror to examine your entire head, making sure you didn’t miss any spots. Also, check the condition of your skin: If there are any red spots, bumps or areas of discomfort, keep an eye on them over the next few days to ensure they heal properly. If not, you may want to use a healing cream like Murad Man Razor Burn Rescue or consult with a dermatologist.

5. Protect it. Shaving regularly along with daily exposure to UV rays can lead to a dry, flaky scalp—and with a bald head, flaws are impossible to hide. Your scalp is also more susceptible to sun damage than other spots. To protect and hydrate your scalp, apply moisturizer every morning, ideally one that includes SPF, such as Coola Total Body SPF 30 Unscented. If you don’t have a lotion that does double duty, make sure to use a separate sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. A sunburn on your scalp can be excruciating. And in the event of prolonged sun exposure, wear a hat.

See also:

Picking The Right Razor for You

10 Steps to a Perfect Shave

Battle Against Razor Bumps