How to Shave Your Head with a Safety Razor (Smooth, Irritation-Free Guide)

Shaving your head can be liberating - no bad hair days, no constant trims, just a clean and confident look. But if you’ve ever tried shaving your head with a regular cartridge razor, you’ve probably dealt with razor burn, missed spots, or bumps on the scalp.

Switching to a safety razor changes everything. With the right prep and technique, you can get a closer, smoother head shave, and save money while doing it. Here’s how to do it right.

Why Use a Safety Razor for Head Shaving?

Most people assume head shaving requires expensive cartridges or electric shavers, but the truth is, a single-blade safety razor is often better for your scalp:

• Closer shave: One sharp blade cuts cleanly at skin level

• Less irritation: Fewer blades = less friction, fewer ingrown hairs

• Lower cost: Double-edge blades cost pennies each - no subscriptions

• Better control: Weighted razors like the Rockwell 6S glide effortlessly over the scalp

• Built to last: Stainless steel razors like T2 Stainless Steel are durable to keep for life
  

Step-by-Step: How to Shave Your Head with a Safety Razor

1. Prep Your Scalp

• Shave after a shower or apply a warm towel to soften hair

• Exfoliate lightly if you have longer growth to prevent ingrowns

• Lather generously with a shaving soap or cream (try Rockwell Shave Soap for a rich, protective lather)
  
  

2. Use the Right Razor Setting

• If using an adjustable safety razor, start on a low setting (1 or 2) and slowly increase the blade gap to find the most comfortable setting

• Usually, a medium setting of 3 or 4 works best for most of the head

• Switch to a lower setting (1-2) for sensitive areas like the back of the neck or temples
  
  

3. Shave in Sections

• Top of the head first: Work front to back in short strokes

• Sides and temples: Use a gentle grip and follow hair growth direction

• Back of the head: Use your free hand to feel for missed spots
  
  

(Tip: The weight of Rockwell razors means you don’t need to press down - let gravity do the work.)

4. Rinse and Re-Lather for Missed Areas

• After your first pass, rinse and check for rough spots

• Re-lather those areas instead of dry shaving to avoid irritation
  

Post-Shave Care for the Scalp

Shaving your head leaves skin exposed, so post-shave care is essential:

• Rinse with cool water to calm the skin

• Apply a moisturizer to prevent dryness

• Use sunscreen if you’re heading outside - bald scalps burn easily!

Choosing the Best Rockwell Razor for Head Shaving

All Rockwell razors work for head shaving, but here’s how to pick:

• Rockwell 6S - Premium stainless steel, six adjustable settings for ultimate control

• Rockwell T2 Stainless Steel - Twist-to-open design, infinite adjustability, perfect for quick blade changes

• Rockwell 6C - Budget-friendly option with the same adjustable system
  
  

Pair with a 100-Pack of blades for up to three years of shaving for less than the price of a single cartridge refill pack.

Final Thoughts

Shaving your head with a safety razor might sound intimidating, but it’s simpler and more comfortable than you think. With proper prep, a gentle hand, and the right tool, you’ll get a smooth, irritation-free scalp shave every time.

Ready to upgrade your shave?
Shop Rockwell Razors and make your head shave a daily ritual you actually enjoy.