Have you ever looked in the mirror with a razor in hand, wondering if a clean shave might shave off a few years or add more? This is a common dilemma faced by newbies and veteran head shavers.
The impact of a shaved head goes beyond appearance—it's about confidence, style, and how people see you.
Let's answer the question, "Does shaving make you look younger or older?" and learn about the benefits of shaving your head.
Get ready for some surprising insights that may change how you see your reflection.
Do You Look Older or Younger When You Shave?
The age-old question of whether you look younger or older when you shave your head is a mixed bag. Generally, those who have shaved it all off, including me, believe they have turned back the clock.
Bald Looks Better Than Balding: Younger
With 50% of males losing their hair due to pattern hair loss, we must answer the question does shaving your head bald look better than balding?
Yes.
I am in the late stages of male pattern baldness, so comparing what I looked like with a McDonald's logo or horseshoe at the back of my head, I'll say I definitely look better and, yes, younger with a smooth dome.
Some think that baldness is associated with old age, but when you observe those sporting a clean-shaven look, they look clean, neat, and young compared to those who are bald on top with hair on the sides.
Look at those who do combovers or maintain their horseshoe patterns; they look older.
This photo of George Costanza shows what I mean.
Balding makes you look old (some say 10 years older) because it highlights thinning hair and your receding hairline. Shavers with graying hair (a sign of aging) will look younger if they shave their head.
Shaving it all off removes these signs of aging.
Adding a beard like Costanza, may give you a different look but it can make you look older.
Highlights Facial Features: Younger
Shaving your head puts the spotlight on your face compared to when you had those precious locks that used to hog all the attention.
Without hair, your eyes, nose, and chin are front and center.
A strong jawline, high cheekbones, and defined features are often seen as signs of youth and vitality.
Shaving your head highlights these youthful attributes, making you look younger and fresh.
Shows More Confidence: Younger
A study shows that men with smooth domes are perceived as more dominant, taller, and stronger.
When you exude confidence, you naturally appear more vibrant and youthful.
Scars and Imperfections: Older
If you have noticeable scars or blemishes on your scalp, shaving your head can draw attention to these imperfections. If scars are more prominent, this could detract from the youthful appearance you're hoping to achieve.
Cultural Perceptions of Baldness: Older
In some Eastern cultures, baldness is associated with wisdom and maturity, which may lead to wrong assumptions about age.
In African tribes, tribal leaders or elders may shave their heads as a sign of their status and wisdom within the community.
The Practical Benefits of Shaving Your Head
Low Maintenance
Bad hair days, removing tangles, and styling are now a thing of the past when you decide to shave it all off.
You also don't have to worry about dealing with messy hair after sleeping or wearing a hat.
Time and Cost Savings
Using today's electric shavers, shaving only takes 2 minutes. Your daily grooming routine may be cut in half, freeing up time for other activities.
Shaving also saves money on barber visits and expensive hair styling products. For your new grooming routine, you should start investing in scalp moisturizers and shaving cream.
Unique Identity
A shaved head can make a memorable impression on others. It's common for people to remember the baldie who confidently walked into the room versus the many ordinary-haired individuals who attended the same party.
I've been shaved for over 14 years, and people think I haven't aged a bit since I've had this look. Of course, I need to maintain my weight; I look older when I put on the extra pounds.
Click on the link to read our comprehensive guide on the benefits of shaving your head and balding gracefully.
The Bottom Line
Shaving your head generally makes you look younger and better. If you are part of the minority who look older shaved, try to improve on other factors that make you look older, like wearing a beard, not being in shape, the way you dress, having poor skin, etc. Shaving and being bald is just one aspect; most head shavers look younger than when they were balding.
Getting in shape, exfoliating of your scalp, shaving your beard, eating well, and adding vitamins and supplements are just some things you can do to look younger with a shaved head.
If you are still deciding whether or not to shave your head, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages, that's according to a 14-year head shaving veteran.
You don't have to be scared to death about shaving your hair. If you feel it doesn't suit you, you can grow it all back in a few months anyway.
You can start with a buzz cut if shaving is too aggressive for you.
But before you start shaving, you must learn how to shave your head first.
FAQs
How Often Should I Shave My Head?
Shaving frequency depends on how fast your hair grows and how smooth you want your scalp to be. For many, shaving every two to three days works best to maintain a clean and neat look.
Will I Feel Colder After Shaving My Head?
Most head shavers say their heads feel colder after shaving their heads. The lack of hair exposes our scalps, making us more sensitive to heat and cold. I wear a beanie to bed to keep my bald head warm at night.
