Whether You’re Embracing Baldness or Avoiding it, You Need These Grooming Tools
Geoff Nudelman
January 28, 2021
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The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.
Baldness can be hereditary, stress-related, or just due to the normal course of aging. It’s something that’s almost inevitable and, depending on the study you look at, affects more than 100 million people in America alone.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Whether you’re trying to save the hair you have or have decided to embrace full baldness, there are plenty of options to help you make the most of your chosen journey.
RELATED: Top 10 Causes of Hair Loss
Our guide below outlines options for both routes in the hopes of making your choice a little less … hairy.
Best Nourishing Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner
Jupiter “Triple Threat” Set
Jupiter is a new name in the crowded dandruff relief space, but this brand focuses on a more natural approach with probiotics infused into the conditioner and coconut oil infused into the shampoo. It’s capped with a serum that helps relieve more significant flaking, redness and itchiness. All of those things can be a problem no matter where you’re at on the baldness scale and having the right scalp nourishment and moisturizer on deck can make all the difference.
Promising Review: “I swear I have literally tried everything. LITERALLY EVERYTHING. and I had yet to find something that 1) gave me less flakes 2) moisturized and nourished my hair 3) helped my scalp not be itchy Im currently on day three hair, my scalp has minimal flakes, my scalp is not itchy(even my normal bad spots!!), and my hair is soooo soft and not oily at all!! I'm obsessed and so freaking happy. If you’re on the fence about it, just try it out!!” - Anna
Best Multi-Use Bald Head Soap
Baldies Shower Bar 001
A simpler, all-in-one solution comes in the form of this newer soap brand, which uses avocado oil as the base of an all-natural product meant for more sensitive skin. The addition of French green clay promotes exfoliation while shea butter helps moisturize. This is a good option if you’re pressed for time and need a head soap and shaving bar in one product.
Best Head Shaving Electric Razor
Braun Series 7
For those who have completely embraced baldness, you’re going to want an easy solution to shave your head every few days to keep that clean look. The Series 7 is a higher-end model, but comes with everything you need to maintain the trim and features a Li-ion battery that can charge for up to three weeks of shaving. If you’re looking for a quick and clean way to keep up that bald shave, this is it.
Promising Review: “I debated about dropping $200 on a [razor], but have had many frustrations with previous purchases. Sooooo glad I did. My favorite feature is the close shave head, which allows me to effectively shave and avoid razor bumps. Can use for all shaving / trimming purposes and travels well. Only gripe is that I'd like beard trimmer clips with higher numbers, as I'm growing it out.” - Anonymous
Best Bald Head Moisturizer
Weleda Skin Food
It’s worth mentioning that this is a much thicker moisturizer and won’t be suitable for everyone. However, if you use it liberally, it makes an excellent all-body moisturizer. The base of special oils and beeswax makes it a supreme nourisher with a scent resembling pine and gentle, natural minerals. For super-dry skin, it’s a must-try.
Promising Review: “This is a MUST have! A MUST! I am always looking for that rich moisturizer that leaves your face so hydrated that you look fresh and rejuvenated, that is this stuff!!!! This is the most luxurious cream that truly continues to work, I never break out or become to greasy, yet my skin looks HYDRATED and beautiful! I have tried Bobbi Brown, and many expensive products, this one tops them all! I wont go without this stuff!! I LOVE IT!!!!” - Anonymous
Best Hair Growth Shampoo
Zenagen Revolve
Pills or messy gels aren’t your thing? You can go the shampoo route and try something proven like this option from Zenagen. This particular shampoo targets DHT (the hormone that causes hair loss) and works to remove it and target future production so hair loss not only subsides, but can regrow thicker and fuller. As for scent, green and white tea along with ginger root powers this blend.
Promising Review: “I'm not quite yet going bald, but my wife had noted over the past year or so that my hair had seemed to be thinning out some near the vertex of my scalp. I wasn't sure if this would work - I definitely didn't want to take a pill or do anything extreme about my hair, but we figured that it was worth a try if it could prevent me from losing my hair in the future and could increase the health of my scalp. I've been very satisfied with the shampoo. One bottle lasts me for almost 3 months. After about 3 months of use, my hair seemed to be fuller and thicker, and my wife says she can tell a noticeable difference in the spot she was concerned about. I'll continue to use it regularly in the future - definitely worth the money.” - Jonathan
Best Sunscreen for Bald Heads
Coola Mineral Sun Silk Moisturizer
Sunscreen is a crucial part of embracing baldness. With nothing to cover your scalp, you’re much more susceptible to the sun and can burn much faster. Coola is a brand rooted in clean, all-natural sun protection that’s also reef-friendly. This sunscreen comes in at SPF 30 and is the perfect consistency to blend in, not leaving that white sunscreen “shadow” behind.
Promising Review: “Even better than the creme version. Feels like a moisturizer but I still use it with my daily moisturizer for extra hydration because of my dry skin. Doesn’t leave a white cast on my face. Leaves my skin looking smooth and healthy. Will be purchasing again.” - Alexandra
Best Razor Set for Bald Heads
Gillette Proglide Shield
Sometimes, only an analog edition will do, especially when it comes to shaving sensitive scalp. Although it’s at the higher-end of manual razors, the Proglide’s 5-blade system simply offers a better shave and one that can transition seamlessly from beard to scalp. You get most of the same smooth finish of a safety razor with better blade longevity and less risk of nicks.
Promising Review: “I have been shaving my head since I was 13 years old, I am 39 now. I have used every razor out there including a morello 3rotor foil razor. The batteries on the Norelco recently started going bad after 7 years and I wanted to go back to an actual razor shave. I ran across a review of a double edged safety razor on face book and did some research on them. I decided to purchase one and nicked my head several times on the first shave. Figuring I was not holding the razor properly I decided to give it another shot and again it destroyed my scalp. So I jumped on Google and looked for the best razor for shaving your head. This razor was at the top of the list with a rave review. I decided to pull the trigger and I am glad that I did. I have used it every other day since it arrived and have not nicked my head once. While the refills may be a little pricey I will gladly pay the price for such an amazing shave.” - Chris
Best Bald Head Shaving Oil
Pacific Shaving Co. Natural Shave Oil
For all of the expensive, fancy beard oils out there, leave it to one of the more established brands to come through with a no-nonsense, high-performing oil. This shave oil comes in small bottles because you really only need a couple of drops to get your shave going and it works perfect on its own or as a primer for shaving cream. It’s a simply superior shave oil with essentially no fragrance that’ll work all over your face.
Promising Review: “I hike and backpack, and was looking for a small, lightweight product to help me shave when on a backpacking trip. I always try my backpacking products before heading out, so I've been using this shaving oil for several weeks. This shaving oil is now my preferred shaving product. The shaving oil does a better job of lubing my skin before shaving, makes shaving very smooth, makes it easy to see my skin while shaving, and leaves my skin smooth and moist (lubed) after the shave. Compared to shaving cream, the shaving oil gives me a closer shave with no nicks. For me, a small dab of oil on my finger rubs easily onto a section of my skin; 6 to 8 small dabs and I'm ready to start my shave. Saves on water use too; only need to rinse out my razor once after shaving. I'd guess anyone who shaves their head may prefer the shaving oil too. Great product.” - Vandy-SJ
Best Shaving Cream for Bald Heads
Kiehl’s “Close-Shavers Squadron” Shave Cream
Speaking of shaving cream, finding a good one matters when embracing baldness. Menthol and camphor make this one a good option alongside a smooth consistency that makes shaving a breeze.
Promising Review: “What's not like? You only have to use a little to get the most comfortable close shave ever! I've tried them all and this one's the best!” - Owen
Best Hair Growth Supplement for Balding
Hairfinity Hair Vitamins
We outlined a number of our favorite hair growth supplements here, but one of the top options is this vitamin mix that’s widely popular on Amazon. It features an exclusive Capilsana Complex derived from a unique blend of amino acids, biotin, collagen-boosting silica, and essential vitamins that support the growth and maintenance of existing hair. It also includes 2,500 mcg of biotin, a hormone crucial to supporting hair restoration.
Promising Review: “I'm super impressed with this product! As I'm getting older, my fine hair has started to thin a little, which is driving me nuts. My doctor suggested getting a vitamin with biotin in it. As I was looking at all of different vitamins to choose from, the hair growth ones started popping up. I researched everything and I choose this one because they use natural ingredients and it had positive reviews. The price was also very affordable. Man am I glad I tried this product!! I've been taking it for almost 3 weeks and I can definitely tell a difference. The biggest thing I have seen is that it's growing like crazy. This is a definite must have for your hair health.” - The OG Elf
Best Paste for Thinning Hair
Rebels Refinery Styling Paste
A little paste can go a long way when it comes to styling hair to cover that (growing) bald spot. This paste has a matte finish and a strong hold to protect and stay in place regardless of your plans for the day. If you decide you want to change it up for happy hour, simply add a dab of water to your hair to thin the paste and restyle as you see fit.
Promising Review: “This is now my 3rd order of this stuff. My husband LOVES it! He found one good hair product a long time ago that eventually just stopped selling it. We were both on the hunt for almost a year looking for the perfect product that had a good consistency while not too tacky, a good scent yet not overbearing, & finally found this! It dries so well in his hair. At the end of the night, you couldn't even tell he put anything in it. It keeps his hair soft and smelling good, which is a plus for me! As a creature of habit, he will probably never look elsewhere for another hair product. I definitely recommend this if you're in the same boat as he was, or just contemplating on whether you should get this or not!” - Nicole
So whether you’re trying to save what’s left or are going full scale bald, there’s a product here to help you in your journey. Whatever you decide, make sure to ease into whichever style you’re embracing and choose the path that feels the most “you.”
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FAQs
Best Products for Bald Guys? ›
Look for products that include hyaluronic acid, shea butter, ceramides, glycerin, and the like.” A perennial Strategist favorite, Weleda Skin Food is also a great moisturizer for the scalp, according to Peterson: “I love this cream for everything. It's rich, thick, and natural.”
What products should I use for bald head? ›Look for products that include hyaluronic acid, shea butter, ceramides, glycerin, and the like.” A perennial Strategist favorite, Weleda Skin Food is also a great moisturizer for the scalp, according to Peterson: “I love this cream for everything. It's rich, thick, and natural.”
What looks good on bald guys? ›Darker colours with light skin tones: Pale skin tones look great in natural colours and in darker hues as they compliment your peachy undertones. A bald man with light skin should try colours such as burnt orange or forest green, grey and brown. But avoid white and pastel colours as they will wash your complexion out.
How can I make my bald guy more attractive? ›- Get Some Tan. ...
- Lose a Few Pounds. ...
- Grow a Beard. ...
- Wear Sunglasses. ...
- Keep Your Head and Face Kempt. ...
- Moisturize Your Head and Face. ...
- Use SPF Protection Daily. ...
- Build Some Muscle.
Moisturizing is a must. Shaving and exposure to the sun can leave your scalp hurting for hydration, so be sure to lather it up every morning, and if you can find a moisturizer with a solid SPF rating, all the better.
Should I wash my bald head everyday? ›1: Cleanse Your Scalp
Your head produces a surprising amount of oil and sweat, but this is usually spread throughout your hair, making it far less noticeable. This can build up too quickly for bald men, and with nowhere to go, it can clog your pores and make your head shiny. Daily washing is a must.
- Frazer Harrison/Getty Images. Billy Zane. ...
- David Livingston/Getty Images. Sir Patrick Stewart. ...
- Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images. Mike Colter. ...
- Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images. ...
- Jean Baptiste Lacroix/Getty Images. Boris Kodjoe. ...
- Presley Ann/Getty Images. ...
- Marco Garcia/Getty Images. ...
- Frazer Harrison/Getty Images.
So, for the questions “Do women like bald men?” the overwhelming majority of women gave positive answers. 87.5% of women of different ages and nationalities surveyed find bald men attractive compared to only 12.5% of women, who gave negative answer.
How do bald guys get their heads so shiny? ›What causes shine on your bald head? Shine on your bald head is typically caused by excess oil. Scientifically known as sebum, oil is produced by sebaceous glands embedded next to hair follicles in the scalp. Even if you're bald, you still have sebaceous glands and hair follicles (although they're shrunken in size).
Does going bald affect dating? ›First, fear not. Going bald need not negatively impact your dating life.
Do bald men look more dominant? ›
The studies found bald men were seen as more dominant over their coiffed peers and were viewed as taller and stronger. But, sorry fellas, dominance doesn't necessarily translate to good looks.
Should bald men use shampoo? ›Because exposure to outside elements and the natural hormonal production of sebum, even guys with shaved heads should shampoo and condition their scalps on a regular basis. Shampoo, with its hydrating properties, is needed to offset drying, and can also prevent dandruff (yes, even on a bald head).
Which oil is best for bald head? ›Castor oil: Contains ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth. Olive oil: Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and E, which can help protect hair from damage and promote healthy hair growth.
Is vaseline good for bald heads? ›Some people swear by Vaseline hair masks for healthier looking locks. You can try applying Vaseline and leaving on overnight or for just a few hours. Alternatively, you can try applying Vaseline over your favorite moisturizing hair mask. Vaseline's protective properties may help to lock in moisture from the treatment.
Can you put coconut oil on a bald head? ›Natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil are most appropriate for your freshly bald head. Protect your scalp from sunburn when you head outside with a hat or sunscreen. Use anti-aging products to prevent premature aging and damage to your scalp.
Should you use conditioner or shampoo on a bald head? ›Don't ditch the shampoo and conditioner
Oils and dirt can build up on a bald scalp, so be sure to use a dab of shampoo when you shower and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep that head flake-free. And while soap or body wash may seem like an easy option, they can have a drying effect.
Using oil on your head
Oils are an easy and accessible way to shine your head. You can use baby oil or beard oil to good effect. If you want to go high-end, look for Jojoba oil. When you use your oil, you don't need very much.
Shaving your head frequently keeps it clean while maintaining the badass bald look. I would estimate that the average man would need to shave his head 2 to 3 times per week.
Do bald men look tough? ›All three studies found similar results: A man's shorn scalp was linked with dominance. In other words, men with shaved heads were perceived as powerful by others. It seems that closely cropped or bald domes have a certain manly swagger to them that project a powerful look.
Do bald guys look better with facial hair? ›Yes, a shaved head often looks better with a beard. Many guys rock a shaved head with a clean-shaven face, but others choose to augment their bald look with a beard.
What is the best head shape for bald people? ›
"A nice round head shape is best," says Mackenzey Forrey, a stylist at Bumble and Bumble. "Check for bumps, divots, ridges, and flatness.
Why do some girls like bald guys? ›They found the same results: People perceive bald guys as more dominant, confident, stronger, masculine, and – this is interesting – stronger.
Do girls find bald guys hot? ›Researchers recently polled 1000 women, and 87% provided a positive response about dating a bald man. Only a small minority saw baldness as a negative issue, with most listing other features such as a fit body as a greater indicator of attractiveness.
Why are most strong men bald? ›The hair follicles shrink over time, the hair thins, and eventually stops growing. By going hard on the weights at the gym and increasing the testosterone and DHT, weight lifters and bodybuilders with the right genetics can risk an earlier onset of hair loss including shedding and male pattern baldness.
What are the disadvantages of being bald? ›Low self-esteem
Due to fixed mindsets and baldness stigma of many people, bald people usually get mocked or laughed at, which can be disheartening for them. People also experience a lack of self-confidence and low self-esteem due to this. Jokes on bald people make them self-conscious.
Benefits of shaving your head
A recent study showed that completely shaven bald men were perceived as more dominant, masculine, confident, and somehow more powerful than men who were showing male pattern baldness but had not shaved their heads completely.
While some men are able to easily accept the loss of their hair, there are others who fall into a spiral of depression and insecurity due to their changed appearance. They often have increased anxiety and despair due to an inability to stop their changing appearance.
Why do some bald men have wrinkly heads? ›Cutis verticis gyrata is a medical condition usually associated with thickening of the scalp. The condition is identified by excessive thickening of the soft tissues of the scalp and characterized by ridges and furrows, which give the scalp a cerebriform appearance.
Are bald guys confident? ›A study at the University of Pennsylvania asked three groups of participants to rate certain photos of men according to character traits such as attractiveness, confidence and dominance. And yep, you picked it: Bald men won in a clean sweep—study author Albert.
Do men care about going bald? ›It's not uncommon for men to experience low self-esteem and confidence when they start balding, but what you might not realise is that these anxieties go back centuries.
Does going bald make you look younger? ›
#1 – Shave Years off Your Appearance
Well, shaving your head is the closest thing you can get to looking ten years younger. It may sound superficial, but it's true. At first, it may seem like an extremely frightening thing to do, especially if you're just starting out with losing your hair.
There are racial differences, however, in the incidence of male pattern baldness. The highest rates are found among Caucasians, followed by Afro-Caribbeans. Chinese and Japanese men have the lowest rates.
Where do men bald the most? ›Stats Around The World - Highest Hair Loss Countries
Czech Republic - 42.79% of Prague men balding or bald (takes the #1 spot) Spain - 43.60% men bald or balding. Germany - 41.24% men bald or balding. France - 39.24% men bald or balding.
Baldness is a hot topic in research. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), or male pattern baldness, is the most common type of progressive hair loss disorder in men. Half of the men in the world experience hair loss by age 50. About 70% of men will lose hair as they get older.
Do bald guys shave their heads? ›Baldness. People experiencing hair loss may shave their heads in order to look more presentable, for convenience, or to adhere to a certain style or fashion movement. Those with alopecia areata or androgenetic alopecia often choose to shave, which has rapidly become a common choice since the 1990s.
Why is my bald head so dry? ›If you're bald and wondering why you have an itchy scalp, it may just be dry skin, just like your hands and face, your scalp can become dry too. Or, it could be psoriasis, a genetic condition that causes flaking even on less hairy areas of the body, like the elbows.
Do bald men look more intimidating? ›His findings appear in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science. All three studies found similar results: A man's shorn scalp was linked with dominance. In other words, men with shaved heads were perceived as powerful by others.
Why do bald guys have great beards? ›Because balding is primarily triggered by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in men who are genetically predisposed to losing their hair. Yet that same hormone – DHT – also stimulates the linear beard growth, along with testosterone (another male hormone which is also often elevated in balding men).
Do bald guys shine their heads? ›Shine on your bald head is typically caused by excess oil. Scientifically known as sebum, oil is produced by sebaceous glands embedded next to hair follicles in the scalp. Even if you're bald, you still have sebaceous glands and hair follicles (although they're shrunken in size).
Do bald guys get married? ›Of course there are plenty of bald and balding men living happily ever after. For starters, men, like women, are marrying later in life, according to Census data. And although women rank physical features higher on their future-husband wish lists, they also care about personality, said Mr.