8 Common Mistakes Bald Men Make When Caring for Their Scalp

Let’s face it: going bald isn’t just a look; it’s a lifestyle. And while embracing the smooth dome might feel liberating, forgetting about scalp care can turn your confidence into chaos. From irritation to sunburns to a desert-dry shine, neglecting your scalp is like taking a Ferrari to the car wash but never bothering to wax it.

Ready to avoid those cringe-worthy mistakes and give your head the love it deserves? We’re diving into the eight most common scalp care slip-ups that bald guys make, and how to fix them, fast.

The 8 Most Common Scalp Care Mistakes Baldies Make

Dry Shaving a Sensitive Scalp: A Recipe for Disaster

No two scalps are created equal. Some can tolerate a dry shave like a champ, while others get irritated and scream in agony when shaving dry. 

I learned this the hard way when transitioning from hair clippers to a rotary shaver. I got so excited that I dry-shaved immediately right out of the box. I noticed that the back of my neck felt like it was on fire after the shave. It was my first experience with razor burn, and I didn't want it to happen again.

Dry shaving on a sensitive scalp can lead to an angry, irritated scalp that feels like it has been through a war zone.

Solution: Opt for a wet shave using a high-quality shaving cream or gel. A study shows improvement of scalp condition by using a scalp moisturizing lotion.

After my own run-in with razor burn, I started applying pre-shave oil before every shave, paying extra attention to the sensitive area at the back of my neck. This simple switch spared me from further irritation and left my scalp feeling smooth and healthy.

Not Moisturizing After Shaving

Not moisturizing after a shave is like finishing a marathon and forgetting to hydrate - what were you thinking? Our freshly shaved scalps need soothing and hydration to prevent dryness and irritation.

Solution: Always apply a soothing moisturizer after shaving your chrome dome. Freebird has a refreshing scalp moisturizer that's designed for our bald scalps. It helps soothe and hydrate newly shaved scalps and fights aging.

Pick one up for as little as $11.65 per bottle.

Using Body Soap Instead of Shampoo for Cleansing

Body soap makes your body smell fresh but as its name implies, isn't designed for your scalp. Using body soap on your head can strip away natural oils, making your scalp drier than a piece of burnt toast.

Solution: Invest in a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo or cleanser that cleanses your scalp without the harsh chemicals that can irritate and dry out your smooth dome. Freebird has a gentle scalp cleanser you can use for daily scalp cleansing. You can pick one up for as little as $11.65 per bottle, and it does a good job of deep cleansing your scalp from dirt and oils.

Skipping Sunscreen: A Bald Mistake

If you're bald, skipping sunscreen outdoors is like leaving the house without pants! You shouldn't do it. The sun can wreak havoc on our exposed scalps, leading to uncomfortable, painful burns and long-term damage if you're not careful. A study shows that men with male pattern baldness have a higher risk of getting skin cancer.

Solution: Don't forget to apply an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen outdoors. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. For extra protection against those harmful UV rays, wear a hat after putting on sunscreen.

Forgetting to Exfoliate or Over Exfoliation

Just because you can't see them doesn't mean they're not there! Dead skin cells and product buildup may not be visible to the naked eye, but they can clog hair follicles and lead to scalp dryness. Over exfoliation is also a mistake, too much can cause redness, irritataion and inflammation.

Solution: Exfoliate once or twice weekly and keep your scalp healthy and happy. Think of it as giving your scalp its own spa day. It will thank you for it.

Wearing Tight Hats

Wearing tight hats will keep you warm and protect you from the sun, but it can also create tension on your scalp, leading to scalp pain and discomfort. 

Solution: Choose looser-fitting hats and give your scalp some breathing room. 

Neglecting Hydration from Within

It's easy to forget that what you put into your body affects your scalp health, too! Not drinking enough water can dehydrate you, resulting in a dry and flaky scalp.

Solution: Drink at least eight glasses of clean water throughout the day. Staying hydrated keeps your skin and scalp looking great and healthy.

Ignoring Signs of Irritation

Sometimes, we brush off discomfort as a minor issue, but ignoring signs of irritation can lead to bigger problems.

Solution: Pay attention to your scalp's signals. If you notice persistent redness, flaking, or itching, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment before things escalate.

The Bottom Line

Proper scalp care is essential for baldies. By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be on your way to achieving a healthy scalp, which every baldie longs for. This knowledge empowers you to take control of your scalp health. 

FAQs

Is it Okay to Use Body Lotion on My Scalp?

While it may seem convenient, body lotion isn't formulated to meet the unique needs of our scalps. Stick to products designed specifically for bald heads to avoid irritation.

Why is Sunscreen Important for a Bald Scalp?

Without hair, a bald head is directly exposed to harmful UV rays, which cause sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier against these damaging rays.

How Often Should I Exfoliate My Scalp?

Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week. This helps remove buildup and dead skin cells while promoting a healthier scalp.

What Happens if I Don't Moisturize My Scalp Regularly?

Failure to moisturize leads to dryness, flakes, and irritation - none of which are ideal if you aim for that smooth and healthy look!

Can Dehydration Cause Flakiness on My Scalp?

You bet it can! Dehydration is like that uninvited guest who overstays their welcome—it brings all sorts of unwanted issues, including a flaky scalp. When your body doesn’t get enough water, it can lead to dryness not just on your skin but also on your scalp, making it feel like a desert up there. So, keep that water bottle handy and aim for at least eight glasses a day to keep your scalp happy and hydrated

Are There Specific Ingredients I Should Avoid?

Oh, absolutely! When it comes to scalp care, some ingredients are like that friend who always shows up late—just not worth the hassle. Here’s what to steer clear of:

• Sulfates. These bad boys are great for making things sudsy but can remove natural oils leaving scalps dry and irritated.
  
• Fragrance. Who doesn't want to smell good after shaving? The problem is some baldies get irritated with synthetic fragrances.
• Alcohol. Alcohol can dry out your skin fast. You may consider products with alcohol if you have super oily skin and you want to control it a bit.
• Harsh Exfoliants. Scrubs with large granules may do more harm than good. They may cause micro tears in your skin.

What if I Notice Irritation or Redness?

If your scalp starts looking like a stop sign, it’s time to pay attention! Irritation could be a sign that something isn’t right—maybe you need to switch products or adjust your routine. Don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist if things don’t improve; better safe than sorry!