When you shave your head, you need the best sunscreen for bald head protection during periods of high ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.
Some guys forget that when they shave their heads, their scalp is suddenly exposed to the elements. From experience I can tell you that forgetting sunblock is not a great idea and you’ll regret it the next day. Sometimes the same day if you really overindulge.
It’s better to not have to learn the hard way. This is one instance where learning from experience is not your best bet.
I came across an online phenomenon where guys were asking about using shaving cream for sunblock relief so I wrote a post about it.
This post that you’re reading now will discuss the best sunscreen for bald head protection which is a far better choice.
To me, the best sunscreen for shaved head protection is one that has at least 30 Sun Protection Factor (SPF). I don’t worry so much about a particular brand as much as the SPF. In my experience if you’re going to have direct exposure to direct sunlight during the middle (ie. hottest) time of the day, anything else is asking for trouble. The top of your heard and forehead are particularly vulnerable given how tight and thin the skin is there and you’ll feel the sunburn the next day if not sooner. Pack a hat too.
Shaved Head Protection
Shampoo and Conditioner: Some guys shave their head and forget about this part. While you can used body wash on your head you’re better off using a face or scalp-specific wash to clean away oil and dirt. You may not have hair but you still need to keep the scalp clean. A conditioner ensures you don’t get dandruff or flaky skin especially when spending time in the sun.
Sunblock: In my experience, I don’t bother with anything less than SPF 20. Most of the time I wear SPF 30. I generally don’t wear a hat even at the beach and I admit when I’m on holiday I do like tanning. I do tend to bring a hat with me but it’s hit and miss if I wear it.
Moisturizer: Using a moisturizer on your head after you’ve shaved protects from dryness. Some moisturizers come with sun protection too. After a day in the sun, it’s not a bad idea to shower and apply a moisturizer or conditioner to your scalp to protect against dryness and sun damage over time.
Hat: There’s more than just sunblock to protect your shaved head from the sun. Sometimes a wide-brimmed hat is better especially if you’re spending hours out under the sun’s rays. This can also help to keep you cool during the hottest time of the day when the sun is directly overhead. Sunstroke is something you also want to avoid and a hat can also shield your face from the heat.
More Shaved Head Protection
Once you start shaving your head, you’ll quickly realize you can’t forget to protect your scalp. If you’ve had thinning hair for some time you’re probably already aware.
The top of your head (the crown) and your forehead are particularly vulnerable. I find that the worst sunburns I’ve had on my head are those two areas. The part just beyond the forehead area closer to the top of my head gets very red and sore if I forget sunblock.
The skin is very thin on those parts of your head. There isn’t much fat, the skin is pressed right against the skull and it gets burned very quickly.
The back of your neck is another potential problem area as are extremities like your nose and ears.
Don’t forget to protect your scalp and skin during the winter months too. Strong direct sunlight even in the winter can cause sunburn. Cold weather additionally can dry out your skin so wear a hat and bring sunblock too.
Conclusion
- For me, the best sunscreen for bald head protection isn’t based on a particular brand but is one that has at least 30 SPF.
- Wearing a hat additionally protects not only your scalp but may help to keep you from dehydrating as quickly and getting sunstroke. Direct sun can be a killer to your scalp when you shave your head and you’ll feel the sunburn the next day.
- Part of scalp protection also involves washing and moisturizing, to wash away dirt and sweat and then moisturizing after a day in the hot sun. Long term sun damage is something you want to avoid.
- Don’t forget to drink lots of fluids too. You don’t want to get dehydrated.
- Don’t forget to protect your scalp during winter months too! Even if you live in an area where it snows, strong direct sunlight during winter causes sunburn, too.
What sunscreen do you use for sun protection? Let us know in the comments below!