7 Tips for Caring for a Bald Head, According to Experts

Embrace Being Bald

For some people, going bald is a matter of choice. But seeing as how over two thirds of men experience some degree of hair loss before the age of 35, others choose the bald look as a more practical way of embracing the inevitable. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick explains that male pattern hair loss stems from certain hormones, namely dihydrotestosterone, that can cause the hairs to change into smaller hair follicles, in a process known as miniaturization (aka the follicles shrink).

"Some medications, external damage, and some autoimmune conditions can also cause balding, but are much less common reasons," adds board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian.

And while a growing number of people opt for treatments such as strengthening shampoos, minoxidil lotion, and oral medications to either slow down the process or stimulate the regrowth of hair, the number of bald heads out there today is a clear indication that just as many men are happy going hairless altogether. 

Consider Your Hair Type and Texture

Barber and men's grooming expert Jason Biggs says the first thing to keep in mind before joining the bald heads club is maintenance: “While shaving your head bald is clean and crisp, it does require more upkeep to maintain the look.” While this mostly comes down to moisturizer and SPF, it’s still an extra step in your routine. Also, you may want to consider if your hair type lends itself well to a bald look. “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.” So, if you think any of the above applies to you, it’s best to consult with your barber first. 

Additionally, the process of shaving can also lead to irritation, inflammation and ingrown hairs. Its important to educate yourself on gentle shaving creams and high quality shavers and blades to minimize risk of irritation. 

Keep Clippers on Hand

Before you even think about taking a razor to your head, celebrity hairstylist. Andrew Fitzsimons recommends trimming your hair as short as possible with clippers. This is to ensure the razor stays close to the skin for a more even cut. Biggs also advises placing a hot towel on your head to open the pores and soften up the hairs. Lastly, apply a pre-shave oil to provide an extra layer of lubrication and protection to your skin. We like Malin + Goetz Multipurpose Facial Cleansing Oil ($38) for its dual purpose action to cleanse and prep for a shave. You'll want to keep clippers handy for touch-ups as needed.

Use a Fresh, Clean Razor

When it comes to choosing a razor, Biggs says to keep in mind that the less curly your hair is, the more blades you can use when shaving. For example, if you’ve got straighter hair, a standard three-blade disposable razor should be sufficient to get the job done. But for those with coarse, curly hair, as well as sensitive skin, Biggs recommends a single-blade razor: “This prevents extra irritation by just using a single stroke and not cutting the hairs too close.” To avoid nicks and cuts, Fitzsimons recommends using a new razor every time you shave your head.

Perhaps the most important step? Shaving cream. “You need to soften the hair and provide a surface with appropriate slip so you can achieve a close shave,” says Fitzsimons. He also recommends rinsing the blade after every stroke to get rid of excess shaving cream and hair. “You'll want to have plenty of mirrors available. Maybe consider getting a handheld mirror as well, to ensure you haven't missed any spots,” he adds.

If you don't use shaving cream, Nazarian recommends an unscented conditioning cleaner or gel. "These help to soften and prep the skin and act as a lubricant," she says, noting that great options include Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel ($4), and Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash ($7). "I also prefer disposable razors with no more than two blades. They offer a good close shave, with minimal risk of irritation."

Follow Proper Shaving Aftercare

Each time you shave your head, it’s important to follow with proper post-shave care immediately afterward to avoid ingrowns and razor burn. Biggs recommends refreshing skin with a cold towel and applying a soothing moisturizer or jojoba oil to calm and condition your freshly shaven scalp. If you’re a first-timer or prone to irritation, a healthy dollop of aloe vera gel also works wonders to soothe and prevent irritation or razor burn and promote overall skin health. 

Maintain a Skincare Routine for Your Scalp

As far as ongoing maintenance is concerned, Fitzsimons suggests treating your scalp like the rest of your body. “After all, your scalp is skin! That means you'll want to bring elements of your facial skincare routine upwards,” he says. At the very least, this means washing with a dab of shampoo, as dirt and oils can still build up on a bald head, and using a daily moisturizer to maintain healthy, hydrated skin.

Never Skip Sunscreen

It's our favorite mantra, but it bears repeating: always finish your skincare routine with SPF. To keep your scalp healthy and looking it's best, you should wear sunscreen every single day (and be sure to apply enough sunscreen).

"Hair often acts as a barrier and shield from sun, and without it, risk of burning and cumulative damage is greater. Exposure to environmental damage is much greater for a shaved head—the ultraviolet radiation hits the scalp directly, and can lead to premature aging and skin cancers," says Nazarian. She adds that skincare that would have normally stopped at the face should now continue to include skin on your scalp. "That includes antioxidants, sunscreen, and use of sun protective clothing, such as hats. And while a scalp sunburn is unpleasant on its own, constantly exposing your bald head to skin-damaging UVA and UVB rays can lead to the same signs of aging as the face, including hyperpigmentation, irritation, and loss of firmness."