Baldy

Man with a bald head
Photo: Napoleonka/Shutterstock
Q: My wife loves the bald head look on men and has been trying to convince me to shave off all my hair. I've always kept my hair fairly long - covering my forehead and reaching halfway down my ears - so going completely bald would be a huge change for me. However, my wife's birthday is coming up next week, and I'm thinking about surprising her with what she calls a "baldy."
 
Since it's summer and my scalp has never been exposed to the sun, I'm worried it might turn bright red the moment I step outside. Do I need to put sunscreen on my head? Should I use regular sunscreen, or is there a special type made specifically for scalps?
 
A: Your instincts are absolutely right to be concerned about sun protection. Your scalp has likely had little to no sun exposure over the years, which means it's going to be extremely sensitive to UV rays. Without proper protection, you could end up with a painful sunburn after just moderate sun exposure, regardless of your natural skin tone.
 
The good news is that you don't need any special scalp-specific products, though they do make them if you prefer. You can use the same sunscreen you'd put on your face, or pick up a facial sunscreen if you don't already have one. Look for something with at least SPF 30 for adequate protection.
 
Many men with shaved heads swear by spray sunscreens because they're lightweight, absorb quickly, and are easy to reapply throughout the day. You can keep a small bottle in your car, gym bag, or desk drawer for touch-ups. The spray format also makes it simple to get even coverage on the curved surface of your head without missing spots.
 
Keep in mind that your newly exposed scalp skin is going to be as sensitive as a baby's skin. It's been protected under your hair for years. Start with shorter periods in the sun and gradually build up your tolerance. Consider wearing a hat for the first few weeks, especially during peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM.
 
One practical tip: when you first get your head shaved, you might notice your scalp looks paler than the rest of your face and neck. This is completely normal and will even out over time with careful sun exposure and proper protection.
 
Your wife is going to love the surprise, and with the right precautions, you'll be able to rock that bald look confidently all summer long. Just remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours when you're outdoors, and don't forget about the back and sides of your head where it's easy to miss spots.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
How to shave your head bald
 
Do women like baldheaded men?
 
How can I make my bald head shine?
 
How should you wash a bald head, with shampoo or with soap?