If you have or are planning to shave your head solely for the sake of getting rid of those pesky flakes, have I got news for you... 

In this article, we will discuss if it is possible to get dandruff on a bald head. We will also discuss if shaving can cause dandruff, how you can avoid it, and the various possible solutions if you do have dandruff, even if you are bald.  

Table of Contents

• Can I Get Dandruff If I Am Bald?
• What is dandruff?
• Can Shaving My Head Cause Dandruff? How Can I Avoid That?
• Use the Right Razor
• Pre-shave Oil
• Post-shaving Care
• How Can I Treat Dandruff on My Bald Head?
• Don't Stop Using a Shampoo and Conditioner
• Protect Your Scalp from the Sun
• Oil Massage
• Hydrate
• Eat Right

Can I Get Dandruff If I Am Bald?

Unfair as it sounds, yes, you can get dandruff even if you are bald. 

Whether you have shaved your head or your hair has simply fallen out, becoming bald does not affect dandruff.
This is because dandruff is caused due to flaky skin on your scalp. It doesn't have much to do with the actual hair. 

There can be many different reasons for it. Some of the most common ones are Malassezia fungal infection and excessive sebum production. 

Also, the most frequent individual factors are:

• epidermal barrier integrity
• immune response
• neurogenic factors
• emotional stress
• nutritional factors, and/or
• allergic reaction to a hair or skincare product. 

Or, if you have a dry scalp due to lack of moisturization or over-shaving, it could also lead to dandruff. Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also cause it.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is also known as seborrheic dermatitis, a condition with persistent itchy and flaky skin. It is caused due to excessive sebum production. 

Sebum, when produced in controlled quantities, is beneficial as it keeps the scalp moisturized and hair lubricated. The sebum production continues even if you go bald. 

Can Shaving My Head Cause Dandruff? How Can I Avoid That?

Yes, in some cases, shaving may lead to dandruff as it makes the scalp dry. However, it is preventable with good pre-shaving and post-shaving care. 

Use the Right Razor

Using a pivotal head razor is a good choice as it maintains contact with the skin. This means you do not have to go over the same spot multiple times. 

Of course, you also want to ensure it is clean and sanitized before, and after, you use it. 

Pre-shave Oil

Use oils like argan oil or coconut oil before you shave.

Lubricating your skin will help the razor glide on easily and prevent your scalp from drying out. Plus, coconut oil has antimicrobial properties, which is especially beneficial if you are prone to dandruff. 

Go for a shaving cream that has moisturizing properties. Using a shaving brush will also help exfoliate your skin and clean your pores. It will also prevent buildup and dandruff.

Post-shaving Care

Post-shaving, you want to ensure that your scalp is clean and moisturized! Apply a good lotion to prevent it from drying out.

How Can I Treat Dandruff on My Bald Head?

There are many simple, yet effective solutions to bid dandruff goodbye. I've mentioned some of the most important ones below. 

Don't Stop Using a Shampoo and Conditioner

Just because you have gone bald does not mean you do not need to use a shampoo and conditioner anymore. In fact, they are as important as with a flowing mane. 

Plus, when you shave your head, there is still very tiny hair on your head even when you can't see it. Sebum, dirt, and other impurities can still easily build up on the scalp, so make sure to use a good shampoo and conditioner duo. 

A study mentions some of the most common and effective anti-dandruff agents. Look for a shampoo that contains specific ingredients meant to address dandruff. Examples include salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole.  

General scalp care, such as using a good shampoo, can help avoid or manage the issue. On that note, I have to recommend you one of the best shampoos for scalp care. 

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo has a gentle detox formula that will remove the excess oil & dirt buildup from your scalp. 

It is infused with raw apple cider vinegar which has antimicrobial properties and fights against dandruff-causing fungi. 

Plus, it is free from any harsh chemicals, so it won't dry out your scalp. 

Take 1 to 2 pumps of shampoo and massage it on your scalp. Leave it for a couple of minutes and rinse thoroughly from your scalp.

Follow it up with a good conditioner to keep your scalp moisturized.

Protect Your Scalp from the Sun

With a bald scalp, it is much easier to get sunburnt. And, even though it is different from dandruff, it can still cause flaky and itchy skin. 

Make sure to always wear sunscreen on your scalp or keep it covered with a hat to avoid direct sun exposure.

Oil Massage

A good oil massage will help in stimulating your scalp. It will promote good blood flow and healthy hair growth. 

Massage your head using coconut or olive oil. They have shown efficacy in treating dandruff. 

You can also add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree oil as it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.  

WOW Tea Tree Essential Oil

WOW Tea Tree Essential Oil has many beneficial properties like antibacterial, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, insecticidal & stimulant properties. 

On its own, it is very potent and should never be used before diluting with a carrier oil.  

For dandruff, you should mix 2 to 3 drops of this essential oil with a carrier oil. 

Apply it on your scalp by putting gentle pressure. Start from your forehead to the crown of your head and down to your neck.  

Hydrate

Our skin is the first to experience dehydration. It becomes even more important to drink more water to prevent your skin from drying. 

Less intake may lead to flaking and dandruff. Try to drink the recommended 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. 

Eat Right

Eat foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, etc. They help in keeping the scalp hydrated. 

Healthy fats such as those found in avocados help in keeping the skin supple and plump. Food rich in vitamin A, vitamins B7 should also be a part of your daily diet.

Avoid consuming alcohol as it can worsen the condition.

It sure is unfair but, it is possible to get dandruff even if you are bald. If you are choosing to go bald, make sure to maintain your pre-shave and post-shave care. 

Explore similar products on the WOW website.