A bald head can be liberating. No more worrying about bad hair days, hat hair, or styling gone wrong. However, just because you no longer have hair, that doesn’t mean you’re totally off the hook when it comes to grooming. Whether you’re naturally bald or choose the hair-free lifestyle, you need to look after the skin on your scalp to keep it feeling and looking good. Wondering how to care for a shaved head? Our tips and tricks will help ensure your skin is healthy, your head is pristine, and you feel cool and confident.
Caring for Your Scalp 101
Cleanse.
One of the perks of a clean-shaven look is that you can spend less time getting ready in the morning. However, you do still need to cleanse your head regularly. Since your scalp and its pores will be exposed to the world, you may notice more dirt and oil build-up. During your shower, apply a dime-sized amount of a hydrating shampoo or facial cleanser, massage it into your scalp, and rinse away. Concerned about oiliness? Try a cleanser with salicylic acid to moderate your scalp’s oil levels and reduce shine.
Exfoliate.
Use a scalp scrub to gently break down product buildup, dirt, and oil. Exfoliating will also clear your pores, wash away dead skin cells, and prevent dandruff and acne. Plus, it’ll keep your head feeling smooth and soft.
Hydrate.
After hopping out of the shower, it’s time to moisturize. This will keep your scalp nourished and prevent dryness, flakiness, and itchiness. Apply a small dab of facial moisturizer or scalp balm (specifically formulated for shaved heads) to your scalp and rub it in. Use just enough to prevent dry skin — if you use a large dollop, you’ll end up with a greasy scalp. If you want a little shine, a standard moisturizer is fine, but if you prefer a matte look, try a mattifying moisturizer.
Apply SPF.
When you’re thinking about how to care for a shaved head, consider your scalp an extension of your face. To protect it from harmful UV rays, add a lightweight and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. If you’re going to be out in the sun, reapply the product every few hours. You could also use a hat to shield your head from sunlight.
Use Antiperspirant.
It’s easy to forget that hair soaks up sweat. On warm days, apply a gentle antiperspirant before bed. This gives the ingredients time to soak into the skin, so in the morning, you’ll be prepared to head out in the world without worrying about a sweaty scalp. During the day, you may wish to carry wet wipes or blotting papers to keep your head shine-free.
Shave Carefully.
A smooth shave is essential when you’re rocking a bald head. Use the following tips to keep your head sleek and healthy:
- As we mentioned above, use a scalp scrub to exfoliate before shaving. This will remove dead skin cells, unclog your pores, and soften the hairs so they’re ready to be shaved.
- Use a shaving cream or gel to further soften your hair and lubricate your skin. This will help the razor glide over your head, reducing the risk of irritation.
- Choose a sharp razor that easily pivots and maneuvers over the contours of your head. A palm-held razor designed for shaved heads may be your best bet.
- Rinse the razor frequently to unclog the blades and prevent skin irritation. Avoid tapping the razor against the sink or wiping it on a towel, as this can harm the blades.
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Learning how to care for a shaved head isn’t very complicated or time-intensive, all things considered. It’s certainly far less maintenance than a head full of hair! With a little effort and the right products, you can keep your dome in tip-top shape.
Looking for a barber shop that promises good vibes and a quality cut? If you live in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma, stop by your neighborhood Hudson / Hawk. In our modern, comfortable spaces, people of all ages enjoy stylish haircuts and good conversation. We offer a variety of cuts — from zero fades to shear cuts and everything in between — as well as shaves, beard grooming, and waxing. Book your next haircut today.