Dry Flaky Skin on Your Bald Head: Prevention & Treatment - Shaving Advisor (2024)

We’ve come up with a detailed list of measures you can take to prevent your bald head from getting dry and flaky AND a list of treatment methods for those of you who think their ships have already sailed.

Last Updated on December 8, 2021

Dry Flaky Skin on Your Bald Head: Prevention & Treatment - Shaving Advisor (1)

Have you ever heard the saying that prevention is better than treatment? While we agree with the statement, we also know that it’s never too late to catch up on healthy habits and daily routines to improve your way of life.

When it comes to dry and flaky bald heads, there are one too many causes that can lead to it, and pinpointing which one is the specific culprit for you will require a little bit of an investigation. First, let’s take a look at what dandruff or dry and flaky skin is:

Contents show

What Are These Flakes on My Head?

Your skin sheds dead skins at regular intervals throughout your lifetime. This shedding often goes unnoticed as it is microscopic. However, if larger yellow or white flakes start to appear on your scalp, you may have a dandruff problem. What distinguishes dandruff from normal shedding is its extent, color, and the fact that it grows at a much faster pace.

Most researchers have found hormones to be the biggest culprit behind dandruff production, which is why you may have had this issue during your teenage years. It can also be linked to a type of yeast that grows on your head. However, these can only be diagnosed by a dermatologist.

Dry, flaky scalps can also be in your genetics – passed down from generation to generation. If you’re a male, have oily skin, or are overweight, you may face dandruff problems more than anyone else. However, dandruff has also been linked to some chronic conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease.

Other Common Causes of Dry, Flaky Bald Heads

Contrary to popular belief, if you have dandruff, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have poor hygiene. Dry, flaky skin can also be a consequence of:

Not rinsing off shampoo properly.

Shampooing either too often or not too often.

Not staying hydrated and moisturized during cold weather.

Being stressed all the time.

Using a product that led to a bad reaction.

Skin problems or diseases, such as scalp psoriasis and eczema.

How to Prevent Dry & Flaky Bald Heads

Instead of avoiding black clothes, there are some steps that you can follow to prevent your bald head from getting dry and flaky. Let’s take a look at what these steps include:

1. Pick the Correct Razor

Choosing the right razor for your head might be a challenging task as you may need to try several variations before sticking with the one that provides the best results for your skin type. If you’re prone to dandruff, we would recommend steering clear of electric shavers as they can be pretty harsh to use. If you’re new, a double-edge safety razor may not be the safest option for you.

We recommend that you use a cartridge razor with a pivoting head. These razors are easy to use and less likely to irritate your skin or leave cuts, burns, and scars.

Another option is to stop shaving completely bald for a while and use use hair clippers without a clipper comb, only the blades. This will also reveal less of the dry skin if appearance is of concern.

2. Pre-Shave Rituals

Your pre-shaving routine should include applying oils because it’ll soften your hair- making it easier to shave- and provide adequate moisture to your skin. Find products with essential oils and carriers to ensure you get the best results possible.

Some of the oils that we’ve found to be more beneficial than others include coconut, tea tree, rosemary, jojoba, and argan oil. Some of these oils, such as the tea tree oil, also work as a great disinfectant while controlling excess sebum production.

3. Shaving Creams to Avoid

Shaving creams that contain harmful ingredients and chemicals can leave your scalp dry and flaky after a shave. So, throw away all aerosol shaving creams that you’ve purchased, as they have little to no water and moisturizing benefits.

Applying a shaving soap with a brush is one of the favorites amongst bald heads. Shaving soaps have garnered a lot of attention because they contain moisturizing oils, and the brush prepares the hair for an easy shave- while exfoliating the skin and cleaning out your pores.

Related: Best Natural Shaving Creams or Creams for Sensitive Skin

4. Post-Shave Routine

Your post-shave routine should include at least one lotion, oil, or balm. If you don’t like the extra shine, it will also help if you pick a moisturizer with a mattifying effect. An aftershave balm can help moisturize the skin, prevent it from drying or forming flakes, and soothe and disinfect your bald head.

Additionally, it would also be highly advantageous if you use a moisturizer with an SPF. One of the most common causes of a dry and flaky bald head is sun exposure. So, using SPF-induced products will ensure your skin doesn’t burn and peel off.

5. Massaging Your Bald Head

Treat yourself to an at-home or spa massage at least once a week if you can’t do it every day. Massaging your scalp balances the blood circulation in your scalp, bringing more nutrients and oxygen to the skin and helping maintain its natural moisture and oil production.

The process of massaging your bald head will become much easier and enjoyable if you invest in a great scalp massager. There are plenty of silicone massagers that won’t irritate your skin or make it dry.

How to Treat Dry & Flaky Bald Heads

While many of us continue to take precautionary measures to prevent dry and flaky bald heads, not all of us succeed. In addition to eating healthy, exercising, and staying hydrated, what can you do to treat an already dry and flaky scalp? Let’s find out!

1. Wash Your Head Regularly

Washing your head regularly will help reduce the flakes and gradually get rid of them completely. Depending on the extent of dandruff you have, you may have to shampoo every day or less frequently if your condition is not as drastic.

People with a troublesome scalp condition may need to use a dandruff shampoo. However, if your situation is not as bad, you can get away with using regular shampoo as well. It’ll be helpful to use mild shampoos with fewer or no chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin.

2. Ingredients That Help

If you’ve switched to dandruff shampoo, you’ll have to go through some trial and error before finding the right match for your specific condition. Typically, shampoos with zinc pyrithione, tar, selenium sulfide, or salicylic acid work like magic for dry and flaky skin.

When using a dandruff shampoo, you should start by using it on a regular basis. Once you begin to see a positive change, you can switch to using your everyday shampoo and a dandruff shampoo on alternate days. Slowly, you can eliminate the dandruff shampoo from your routine altogether.

You should also lather twice with the dandruff shampoo and let it sit for approximately 5 minutes before rinsing it out; this allows the shampoo to work more efficiently on an extremely dry and rough scalp.

3. Do Not Scratch

You may feel an unavoidable urge to scratch your head, especially when it’s dry and flaky. However, scratching your already sensitive bald head will only make matters worse. This one may require a lot of strength and courage as dry and flaky scalp can be extremely itchy.

If you give in to the urge, you will end up with bruised skin and bleeding that can lead to more flakes and dryness. So, it’s best to avoid scratching the itch away, as it will come back worse than before.

4. Contact a Dermatologist

If you think a regular dandruff shampoo is not working for your dry and flaky bald head, you may need to get in touch with a dermatologist. These skin specialists can provide you with a prescription for medicated treatments and professional plans and routines that you can follow to minimize and ultimately get rid of dandruff.

A dermatologist will provide treatments based on your genetics, daily routines, sun exposure, preexisting skin conditions, and skin color. So, don’t get discouraged if our tips and tricks don’t work, and seek professional help right away!

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, even those of you who follow healthy routines and maintain their hygiene on a daily basis can come across dry and flaky bald heads at some point in your life. So, if you’re facing challenges as such, there’s no need to feel ashamed or disappointed. With the prevention steps and treatment methods we mentioned, you can maintain and treat your scalp, respectively. However, these are not the only solutions out there, and if you’re still struggling after following all these steps, a dermatologist is best equipped to help you.

Did you like our prevention and treatment tricks for dry and flaky bald heads? We have plenty more blogs and articles currently in the making, so stay tuned for more updates from our team. Till then, we hope you stay happy and healthy!

Related: Best Electric Shavers for Men – Top 8 Electric Razors Compared

Simon Edwards

When I am not shaving my head, trimming my beard or even doing a spot of manscaping I am writing about men's lifestyle and other topics Ithoroughly enjoy writing about. Surfing and coffee is also my thing!

Related Articles You Might Like

Best Matte Moisturizers for Bald Heads

How to Matte Your Bald Head and Reduce Shine

Best Electric Head Shavers – Tested and Reviewed

Bald Head Articles and Guides

How to Shave Your Head in the Shower and the Benefits

Dry Flaky Skin on Your Bald Head: Prevention & Treatment - Shaving Advisor (2024)

FAQs

How do I get rid of dry skin on my bald head? ›

You can usually get rid of dry scalp by switching to a non-medicated, gentle shampoo. A shampoo for dry scalp helps stop the dryness and flakes.

How do you keep a bald head smooth without shaving? ›

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.

Can you put lotion on bald head? ›

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.

Why is my head so dry and flaky? ›

A dry scalp occurs when the scalp does not have enough oil for the skin to feel lubricated. Like other forms of dry skin, this can cause itching, flaking, and irritation. It can also cause the hair to look dry, since oil from the scalp helps condition the hair. People with dry skin are more prone to dry scalp.

Is Vaseline good for bald head? ›

While Vaseline may offer some benefits for moisturizing your hair and scalp, there's currently no evidence to suggest that it stimulates hair growth or provides any protection against issues such as male pattern baldness.

Is Vaseline good for flaky scalp? ›

For dandruff or dry scalp

To combat flakiness, try massaging a small amount of Vaseline into your scalp before rinsing with shampoo.

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 coconut oil good for 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.

Why is my bald head peeling? ›

Scalp peeling can be a result of dermatitis, dandruff, or psoriasis. Of all types of dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and contact dermatitis most commonly cause peeling on the scalp. If your symptoms are not alleviated with home or OTC treatments, you should see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

What is best to shave your head with? ›

Use a clean, sharp razor such as the Gillette Fusion Proglide Power Razor. Start by shaving WITH the grain (the direction the hair grows). This will minimize cuts, irritation, in-grown hairs and razor burn. Glide the razor down the sides and back and then from back to front on top.

What vitamin deficiency causes dry flaky scalp? ›

Dry scalp may be caused by nutritional deficiencies, such as not getting enough vitamins B6 and B12 in your diet. Boost your intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals and, if necessary, through supplements such as flaxseed oil, zinc, and selenium.

How does apple cider vinegar help dry scalp? ›

ACV can help control the growth of yeast that causes dandruff to reduce itching and flakiness. ACV is also acidic due to the presence of acetic acid which helps restore your scalp's pH levels and keeps it healthy.

How often do you shave your head when you are bald? ›

If your scalp is sensitive and is easily irritated, let it calm down at least a day after a shave. Otherwise, you can shave your head every other day or max 3 times a week. And if you are a hard lover of a clean and smooth shave and your hair grows really fast you can try shaving your head every day.

How do I get rid of scabs on my scalp? ›

How to treat the scalp
  1. Keep the area clean.
  2. Use petroleum jelly to help keep the scab or wound moisturized.
  3. If possible, cover the area with a bandage and change it daily.
  4. Use sunscreen or keep the scalp covered to prevent browning or reddening of the scab.
Apr 28, 2021

What ointment is good for flaky scalp? ›

Antifungal creams are often effective, apparently because they reduce the number of yeast organisms living on the skin. Over-the-counter creams include 1% clotrimazole cream and miconazole cream 2%. Antifungal creams also are applied once or twice a day.

Should you put Vaseline on dry flaky skin? ›

To save on skin care, dermatologists recommend using petroleum jelly to: Relieve dry skin, including your lips and eyelids. Dry skin can flake, itch, crack and even bleed. Since ointments are more effective and less irritating than lotions, consider applying petroleum jelly to dry skin, including your lips and eyelids.

Is it better to put coconut oil on wet or dry hair? ›

For heavier oils like coconut oil, applying it on dry hair is best, as the larger molecules may not penetrate the shaft of wet hair as well it can dry hair.

What should I put on my head after shaving it bald? ›

As with moisturizing and cleansing, your scalp is more like your face than the rest of your body. So use use an SPF moisturizer or a facial SPF on your head.

Why not to put coconut oil in your hair? ›

Coconut oil repels moisture, which is essential for your hair. The more you use it, the drier and brittle your hair becomes, leading to more breakage. Coconut oil should never be used on dry, coarse, or brittle hair because these hair types are particularly vulnerable to breakage from coconut oil use.

Should you wash a 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.

What does shaving your head symbolize? ›

More commonly, shaven heads have been associated with trauma, brutality and the loss of individuality or strength. In biblical legend, Samson was deprived of his incredible power and killed when his hair was cut off while he was asleep. In ancient Greece shaved heads were a mark of the slave.

Can I use body lotion on my head? ›

Body lotions contain more moisturizing elements as compared to hair lotions as they are specified to target the skin only. Such elements, when applied to hair roots, will cause hair to become greasy.

Can I put Aveeno on my head? ›

Its mild formula gently cleanses the hair and relieves itchy sensations related to a very dry and sensitive scalp. Hair is left looking soft and beautifully shiny. Ideal for frequent use, even on thin and fragile hair. Soap-free.

Should you shave head wet or dry? ›

Wet your hair before shaving your head. It's best to shave in the shower or straight after you get out. The heat from the water will make bristly hairs easier to cut through, giving you a quicker, easier, and more comfortable haircut.

Is it better to shave head wet or dry? ›

The way the razor cuts the hairs means that wet shaving produces a closer shave than dry shaving. You'll notice it feels smoother and takes longer to grow back.

What gives the closest head shave? ›

  • AidallsWellup 5-in-1 Electric Head Shaver. ...
  • Skull Shaver Pitbull Gold PRO Electric Shaver. ...
  • Remington Balder Pro Head Shaver. ...
  • Freedom Grooming The FlexSeries Electric Head Shaver. ...
  • Kibiy Electric Razor.
Jan 6, 2023

Why do I have crusty scabs on my scalp? ›

What can cause sores or scabs on the scalp? Sores or scabs on the scalp are often harmless and clear up on their own. However, they can sometimes be a sign of a condition that may require treatment, such as psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or head lice.

Why do I get scabs on my bald head? ›

There can be several causes for scabs on the scalp - from dandruff and lice to contact dermatitis and seborrheic eczema. Depending on the cause, treatment can be chosen. Most times, the scabs clear up with topical treatments or targeted medication.

How do you treat dandruff on a bald head? ›

Using an anti-dandruff shampoo and following it up with a conditioner can help you treat your oily and flaky scalp. Head & Shoulders gives a wide range of products which can help you take better care of the shaved or bald head.

How do you fix a crusty scalp? ›

No matter the cause, we've put together some solutions for at-home treatment you can try to treat your dry scalp.
  1. Coconut oil. ...
  2. Tea tree oil. ...
  3. Aloe vera. ...
  4. Apple cider vinegar. ...
  5. Witch hazel. ...
  6. Baking soda and olive oil. ...
  7. Mashed bananas. ...
  8. Yogurt and egg.

Is it bad to pick scabs on your scalp? ›

It can be tempting to pick at scabs on the scalp if they are itchy or painful, but this can cause complications such as infections or skin damage.

What does scalp psoriasis look like? ›

Mild scalp psoriasis symptoms may involve only small, thin scales or flaking that looks like dandruff. Moderate or severe scalp psoriasis symptoms include: Raised, discolored (red, brown, gray or purple) plaques with a white or silvery surface of dead skin cells. Plaques on most of your scalp or your entire scalp.

What does scalp folliculitis look like? ›

What Does Scalp Folliculitis Look Like? Scalp folliculitis usually looks like clusters of small red bumps and can initially be mistaken for an acne breakout. If left untreated, folliculitis can spread to other hair follicles, and the bumps may get more inflamed.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Last Updated:

Views: 6568

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (54 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Birthday: 1997-12-23

Address: 4653 O'Kon Hill, Lake Juanstad, AR 65469

Phone: +494124489301

Job: Marketing Representative

Hobby: Reading, Ice skating, Foraging, BASE jumping, Hiking, Skateboarding, Kayaking

Introduction: My name is Cheryll Lueilwitz, I am a sparkling, clean, super, lucky, joyous, outstanding, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.