I have worn without shaving. It depends though how much, long, or dense your hair is. For me personally, I leave my own sparse hair intentionally because it actually adheres better to the Got2b glue method of attaching. The hairs stick to it like anchors. What is the reason you do not want to shave? I didn't either, but now I will buzz my head with a buzzer without a guard on. U can try it on your head see what a bond you get, If your hair interferes than buzz or shave it. One thing to keep in mind, if your using something like tape over ur own hair.. its harder to take the unit off cause your hair will really stick into the adhesive.. So dont pull it off or ull be in alot of pain and rip out your hairs.