What is epilation?
Epilation is the process of removing hair from the root. This method can provide longer-lasting results compared to shaving. Here are some common types of epilation:
Types of Epilation:
Tweezing: Using tweezers to pluck individual hairs. It's precise but time-consuming.
Epilators: Electric devices that use rotating tweezers or discs to remove multiple hairs at once. They can be used on various body parts as well as the scalp.
Benefits of Epilation:
Long-lasting results: Hair takes longer to regrow because it is removed from the root.
Finer regrowth: Repeated epilation can lead to finer, softer hair, and eventually traction alopecia.
Smoother skin: Epilation removes hair from the root, resulting in very smooth skin.
Shinier and healthier skin: You will notice a brilliant and healthy shine appear as you clear the hair.
Considerations:
Pain: Epilation can be painful, especially for beginners. Pain will to decrease with regular use.
Tips for Epilation:
Exfoliate: Before epilating, exfoliate the skin to remove dead cells and reduce ingrown hairs.
Warm Shower: Taking a warm shower before epilation can open up pores and make hair removal easier.
Moisturize: After epilation, apply a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin.
Overall, epilation can be an effective method for longer-lasting hair removal with the right technique and care.
How do I start epilation?
1. Get the right tools:
The first thing you will need is a good pair of slanted Tweezerman tweezers, these are the gold standard for hand tweezing tools. Cleanse your dome and decide where you want to start balding from first. I recommend the temples and the crown. Start as a pace that works for you and be consistent. Hair is always growing, so consistency is key. I recommend hand tweezing to start, as it creates diffuse thinning which will make epilation easier down the road. Pro tip: incorporating this activity with a partner can be a lot of fun in the bedroom, or with an internet friend as well. You will quickly find that hand tweezing is a very enjoyable activity.
2. Electric epilation:
I recommend going with a trusted brand, Braun. I particularly recommend the Braun Silk Epil 9 Epilator, as it is a fantastic updated model of previous versions. Once you have thoroughly thinned your hair with hand tweezers, move on to electric epilation. It will be painful at first, but the body adapts quickly. No one ever said good things were easy! I have used breath work to get past the pain, deep inhales, and extended, long hissing exhales. Breath work is powerful, do not underestimate. At first, start with "tap tap tapping" motions to further the diffuse thinning, and before you know it, you will be clearing full paths. After you finish your session, rub an ice cube on your head as well as a soothing oil or ointment. (sweet almond oil, triple antibiotic cream etc). I would stick to weekly epilations until you reach your goal.
What is "The Bowl Method"?
Epilating a perfect shape on the back of your head can be difficult for many due to several factors including not being able to see well. Using a bowl of your preferred size, you can easily and successfully get a great dip shape every time. First, place the bowl to the desired height on the back of your head. Use a white eyeliner pencil to trace around the bowl. Next, remove the bowl and check out the sketched in shape of your new dip to see if you are happy with the placement. Once happy, place bowl back on to the line, take a razor and shave right around the bowl. Next shave everything below the shaved line, leaving only hair that will be epilated. This will leave you with a foolproof guideline for the perfect shaped MPB. Every time!
Aftercare for Epilation?
It is important to take care of your skin after epilation sessions. This includes keeping the skin clean and soothed. I like to use Witch hazel and cotton rounds to tone the skin and sweet almond oil to sooth it. This ensures your skin stays healthy, shiny and helps avoid ingrown hairs.
How do I explain my new look to the people around me?
Embracing your new bald look can be a positive experience, and communicating it with confidence is key. Here's how you can explain your new look:
1. Be Honest and Direct: Simply share that you decided to shave your head as a personal choice, or that you "are bald now". No one can contest that fact. Also, baldness is natural and happens to billions of people. Honesty often resonates well, and people appreciate straightforward explanations.
2. Confidence is Key: Own your decision with confidence. When you project self-assurance, those around you are more likely to respond positively and supportively.
3. Mention the Empowerment Aspect: If applicable, express how the decision to go bald has empowered you. Talk about the confidence and freedom you feel with your new look.
4. Share the Styling Choice: Explain that you see it as a stylish choice that suits your personality and lifestyle. Mentioning the modern and timeless appeal of a shaved head can help others understand your perspective.
5. Humor Can Help: If you're comfortable, add a touch of humor to lighten the conversation. A well-placed joke can make the discussion more casual and enjoyable.
Remember, people's reactions may vary, but most will likely appreciate your honesty and confidence in embracing your new appearance.
Remember- Ultimately, you don't owe anyone anything. Your life is for you.
What is the Norwood scale?
The Hamilton–Norwood scale is used to classify the stages of male pattern baldness. It is one of the widely accepted and reproducible classification system for the male pattern hair loss. The stages are described with a number from 1 to 7 with a type A variant for the cases with anterior involvement. In other words, it breaks down your balding progression on a level from one to seven, seven being the baldest. For those that are looking to enhance or increase their balding, this is a great format to follow.


Shaved heads and bald by choice has always been somewhat of a turn on for me. I'm still undecided whether I should take the plunge or not but if I eventually do, is it better to go to a barber for that first shave or do it at home?