Shaving and Skincare Tips for Bald Heads
A bald head is certainly easier to maintain than a flowing mane. No need to worry about bad hair days, burning your scalp with the hair dryer, or bed head! But before you buzz, you should know that the moment you decide to go hairless, it's all about your scalp. And that needs just as much attention as the rest of your skin.
According to dermatologists and hair experts, shaved heads have their own set of grooming concerns, including dryness, dandruff, and sunburn.
Here's how to rock that badass bald head while keeping it smooth, healthy, and protected!
ARE YOU READY TO GO BALD?
For some guys and gals, going bald is all down to choice. However, since over two thirds of men experience hair loss before the age of 35, others decide to go bald as a way of embracing the expected.
Before you buzz, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're making the right decision. For starters -- maintenance.
"While shaving your head bald is clean and crisp, it does require more upkeep to maintain the look," says men’s grooming expert Jason Biggs of Babe of Brooklyn. Think moisturizer and SPF -- extra steps in your routine! He adds that going bald isn't right for everyone.
"Men of color, particularly African Americans, experience ingrown hairs due to the hair being cut down to the skin," says Biggs. "When curly/coarse hair grows back, it sometimes grows back into the skin, causing bumps, irritation and infection." Ouch!
If you're prepared to take care of their scalp and without the risk of ingrowns and infection, go ahead and take the leap! Then be sure to follow our skincare tips for scalp care.
SKINCARE TIPS FOR BALD HEADS
Cleanse Right
First things first, make sure you're using a gentle cleanser or shampoo to clean your scalp. Just because you don't have hair doesn't mean you should stop washing. Dirt, oil, and grime still accumulate on your head!
Since bald heads are prone to dryness, we recommend looking for a hydrating formula like Truly's Super Fruit Shampoo. It's made with coconut oil, argan oil, and tea tree to soothe, seal in moisture, and promote long-lasting hydration.
Shave Right
Head shaving comes with its own set of rules. To avoid irritating your scalp skin and ending up with razor bumps, it's important to use the right products and technique when shaving your hair.
If it's your first time and you're starting with long-ish hair, trim your hair as short as possible with clippers before going in with a shaver. It'll make your job waaay easier! Next, apply a pre-shave oil to provide an extra layer of lubrication and to your skin. With more lubrication comes more protection from friction and skin irritation.
When it comes to choosing a razor, you'll need to consider your hair type. If you have straight hair, opt for a three-blade razor. Those with coarse, thick hair should stick with a single blade razor to avoid nicks and cuts. Experts recommend using a new razor every time you shave your head.
Next, apply a generous dollop of shaving cream, shave gel, or Truly's Happy Hairless Shave Butter! This will soften the hair and provide a surface with enough slip to allow the razor to glide over and achieve a close shave. Remember to rinse the blade after every stroke to wash away excess shaving cream and hair.
And whatever you do...always do it in front of a mirror to guarantee a safe, smooth shave!
Apply a Moisturizing Oil
After showering or bathing, while your pores are still open, slather on a hydrating oil to moisturize your head. It's especially important to moisturize after shaving your head, as this is when it's most prone to dryness and irritation.
Opt for a soothing post-shave lotion or oil (or both!) to calm and condition your scalp. If you have sensitive skin, coat your head in aloe vera gel to soothe and prevent irritation or razor burn.
Start by applying a thin layer of Truly's Hemp Facial Serum to the top of your head. This formula contains a hydrating, redness-reducing blend of hemp oil, vitamin A, green tea, and jojoba oil for smooth, clear skin. Follow up with Truly's Face Cream to seal in lasting hydration.
Indulge in the Occasional Scalp Scrub
Next time you exfoliate your face, take it up a few inches and treat your scalp to an invigorating scrub. Regular massaging and exfoliation stimulates blood flow and sloughs away the buildup of dead skin cells to keep your scalp skin toned, soft, and glowing.
Add Truly's Matcha Scrub to your scalp care routine to drive out dry skin, blemishes, fine lines, and discoloration. It's an optional step in the head care routine, but it's one worth adding in every once in a while.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important thing for bald people. Since your scalp is directly underneath the sun, there's a high risk of sun damage if you don't use sun protection.
Experts advise bald heads to wear a good sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to protect the scalp from UV rays that may cause sunburn, premature aging, and potentially even skin cancer. Reapply it every few hours for maximum protection. Another way to protect yourself from sun exposure is by wearing a hat when outdoors.
Rocking a bald head? Good for you! It's actually becoming really common nowadays for both guys and gals to rock this style.
To maintain your bald headed beauty, we recommend establishing a scalp care routine to keep the skin on your head healthy, soft, and glowing. While bald heads may seem low maintenance, they still require your attention.
Sure, you'll no longer deal with bad hair days, but you'll be even more exposed to UV rays. Thankfully, you can maintain a healthy, happy, beautiful bald head with a few simple skincare tips. Try them, stick to them, and stay consistent. The dedication will pay off!
