How to Shave Your Head with Clippers

There's something liberating about shaving your head, and knowing how to shave it with clippers makes the process easy, efficient, and enjoyable.

Learning how to shave your head bald with clippers is simple.

But let's be clear: when we say "shaving with clippers," we refer to buzz cuts. Even if we use a zero guard, you'll still have a bit of stubble left when using hair clippers.

If you prefer a smooth bald shave over buzzed, a rotary or foil shaver is the right tool for you.

How do you get started? Get your trusted pair of clippers, of course. If you don't have one yet, pick from our best balding clippers list to find one that suits you.

Read along as we discuss the step-by-step process of achieving a smooth, safe, and comfortable shave with hair clippers. We'll even talk about how to shave the back of your head, which can be challenging for most shavers.

Ready for a clean and comfortable shave? Let's get clipping!

How to Shave Your Head with Electric Clippers (Step by Step)

Shaving with hair clippers is easy if you're doing a buzz cut with similar lengths throughout your head. I've done it for 14 years now and switch from buzzed to bald whenever I get tired of a particular style.

A word of caution: If you're using balding clippers or one that shaves closely like the Wahl Aquablade 10 in 1 Trimmer, be careful and learn how to use them correctly. The blades on these types are pretty sharp and can cut you if you shave too fast or at the wrong angle.

Wahl claims the Aquablade shaves 60% closer than Wahl's standard clipper blades. However, the company also warns that this clipper cuts very close, and you may nick or cut yourself if you shave at the wrong angle against your head.

Here's the best technique for super sharp-bladed balding clippers and ordinary clippers as well:

• Cut at the right Angle. The blade should be flush against your head. This angle allows efficient cutting and prevention of nicks and cuts. Cutting at an angle that is too steep can increase the chances of injury. If you feel the guards are too sharp on your head, it means you're holding your clippers at the wrong angle.

• Use the Right Grip. Use an overhand grip when moving from front to back and an underhand grip for back-to-front strokes.

• Tighten Skin. Pull the skin taut when shaving; it's easier to get cut when your skin folds while your clipper is making a pass.

• Light Pressure. Use gentle pressure and avoid shaving too fast.

Here's how to shave your head at home with clippers:

#1 Choose the Best Clippers for Shaving Your Head

Freebird BeardSeries Trimmer - Best Versatile Trimmer

If you're looking for a beard trimmer that can double as a head shaver, Freebird's BeardSeries Trimmer is a good option.

Maintaining your beard and shaving your head (buzz cut) is more affordable since you don't need a dedicated tool for each task.

Remember, though, that it will take longer to shave your head since beard trimmers are narrower than hair clippers. You'll need more passes to finish shaving, but a few extra passes aren't much of a deal.

The BeardSeries Trimmer has a powerful 5,200 motor and sharp stainless steel blades that can cut through coarse hair without pulling and tugging.

Its 60-minute battery life is enough to groom your beard and shave your head in one go.

It also has a travel lock for easy grooming on the go.

For only $49.95, you'll get a trimmer and head shaver in one.

Buy from the Freebird website or on Amazon.

Remington ShortCut Pro - Best Hair Clipper for Buzz Cuts

For buzz-cut lovers, the Remington Shortcut Pro is the best hair clipper you can buy.

Its unique ergonomic design makes it easy to hold in your hand, and its extra-wide curved blade (57% wider than Remington's standard hair clippers) makes shaving faster and more precise.

Its stainless-steel blades are sharp enough to cut through coarse and curly hair without pulling and snagging. To make shaving easier, you'll get 40 minutes of cordless power and a 14-piece kit (shaver, travel pouch, nine combs, brush, charger, and oil).

Cleaning won't be a problem either; remove the washable blade port and wash it under running water.

You'll also get a 5-year limited warranty for extra peace of mind.

The Remington ShortCut Pro costs $59.99.

Buy from their website or on Amazon.

Freebird FlexSeries Pro - Best Head Shaver for Smooth Finish

The Freebird FlexSeries Pro is the much-awaited upgrade to the best-selling FlexSeries classic.

Freebird upgraded the Pro with the following features:

• Adaptive, quieter motor

• Longer 90-minute battery life

• Larger hair capture chamber

• IPX7 waterproofing

• Enhanced four blade system with independent foils

• Travel lock

• Three-level LED battery indicator

• Anti-slip coating and rubber grips

• Two-part blade system (easier cleaning)

The Freebird tradition of giving away $60 worth of freebies continues with the FlexSeries Pro. You'll get:

• An Upgraded Precision Clipper

• 3, 5, 7mm Safety Guards

• An advanced Nose & Ear Trimmer

• A Micro Cleaning Brush

Get one now for only $69.95.

Buy from the Freebird website or on Amazon.

#2 Choose a guard based on how close you want to shave.

Pick the guard length that you want. If this is your first time shaving and you're having second thoughts, starting with a longer guard length allows you to try it out and let it grow out if you don't want to continue shaving.

Use a balding clipper or remove the guard for the closest shave.

I always shaved with a zero guard because I want the closest buzz I can get for a neater and cleaner look.

#3 Begin Shaving

Generally, we dry shave using hair clippers.

Before shaving, remember to apply the previously shared techniques about the right angle, grip, pulling skin, light pressure, and slow pace.

Shave with the grain if you have sensitive skin; if not, you can go against the grain for a closer shave.

Begin shaving in sections. You can start at the sides of your head and then proceed to the top of your head.

Lastly, shave the back of your head.

Shave from bottom to top by placing clippers at your nape. Slowly shave toward your crown. Continue until you've shaved the entire back of your head.

If you're not confident about your shave, that's what the hubby is for. You can always ask your wife or a family member to help you shave the back of your head.

#4 Rinse and Clean Blades

Use your shaving brush to clean the blades and remove hair clippings. If you have a waterproof clipper, rinse the blades under running water to remove hair buildup.

#5 Check For Missed Spots

Run your hand through your head and check for missed spots or uneven areas. You can use two mirrors to see the back of your head or ask the hubby to check.

#6 Rinse Your Head

Rinse your scalp with cool water to remove all cut hair and soothe the skin.

#7 Moisturize

Apply a moisturizer or aftershave to hydrate the scalp and reduce irritation like razor burn. Exfoliation is another step you can add to your routine for a healthier scalp.

To learn how to shave the right way using rotary shavers or manual razors, click on the link and read our comprehensive guide.

Still undecided if you'll go to your barber or DIY? Click on the link to help you decide.

Why Shave with Hair Clippers?

Less Chance for Irritation

Some head shavers get irritated if they shave too close, so using a foil or rotary shaver is out of the equation. With hair clippers, you can buzz with a zero guard and get a neat and clean look without razor burn or razor bumps.

Personal Preference

Some head shavers prefer buzzed with a bit of stubble over bald.

The Bottom Line

Shaving your head with hair clippers is a skill you need to master for a smooth and comfortable shave every time.

With the proper steps, techniques, and tools, you'll ensure that each shave leaves you feeling fresh and looking sharp.

FAQs

Can I Use Regular Clippers to Shave My Head?

Yes, you can use regular or standard clippers for shaving your head. We've read about shavers using dog clippers, and they worked, but we don't recommend them for hygienic purposes.

Balding clippers are the way to go if you prefer a closer shave.

Should I Shave My Head Wet or Dry When Using Clippers?

Generally, a dry shave is done with hair clippers. Wet hair is hard to cut evenly because it clumps together and may not feed properly into the blades.

What Angle Should I Hold the Clippers to Avoid Cuts?

To avoid cuts while shaving with clippers, shave at an angle where your clippers are flush on your scalp with blades pointing downward or upward (depending on if you shave with or against the grain) and the tip of the guard lightly touching your scalp.

How Can I Safely Shave the Back of My Head?

Using a handheld mirror with a wall mirror at your back helps you see the back of your head while shaving.

Start from bottom to top beginning at your nape until you've shaved the entire back area of your head.

Check for missed spots with your mirrors and make extra passes for an even shave.

Can I Use a Beard Trimmer to Shave My Head?

Yes, you can use a beard trimmer to shave your head but it may not be as efficient as regular clippers due to the smaller blade size.

If you don't mind the extra passes and want to save up on buying a dedicated hair clipper, a beard trimmer like the BeardSeries Trimmer is a good beard and head shaver for you.

Check our article on beard trimmer for head shaving for more information.

How Often Should I Shave My Head?

It depends on your preference or how fast your hair grows. Some shave daily, while others every three days or weekly.