Bald man with beard at barbershop

How to Rock a Shaved Head Blood, Sweat, Respect, and Sophistication.

[Feature image by @barbergimo]

We’d never lie to you–you know that, right? We’re not going to proclaim that a bald shaved head is the unequivocally sexiest way to style your crown. However, if sex isn’t your only agenda. If, perhaps, traits like dominance, poise, and a palatable serving of intimidation (hot) are on the list, pave your path with a shaved head–if you can handle it.

What do people really think about a bald shaved head?

First off, don’t give a sh*t about what others think–that’s the type of vibe you’ll be exuding.

shaved head bald with beard
Hayes Potter

It’s true.

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A study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business found that bald men are perceived to be more dominant, and in some cases, stronger and taller, than men who have full heads of hair.

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Maybe it’s because baldness is known to be caused by higher levels of testosterone. Maybe it’s because Walter White and Jeff Bezos have bare scalps. At any rate, if you dig Terry Crews or American History X (without all the connotations), and especially if you’re googling “hairstyles for balding men ,” shave it. Shave it all.

How to Rock a Shaved Head Style

shaved head sophisticated
Paolo Bendandi

Grooming and Fitness

You’ll want to look fairly robust or well built. It’s important to keep your body in good shape so as not to swing too far toward George Costanza, or worse, an emaciated and internet-addicted teen shut-in. This is also why you’ll want to maintain a healthy, toned tan à  la Dwayne Johnson.

bald shaved head athletic fitness
@krillin_strength_official

A bald head can imply impeccable hygiene: you are crisp, clean, smooth. You find that hair is, inefficient. The world is your oyster, and your head is the pearl.

In order to successfully pull this off, you’ll have to convince others that you take good care of yourself. This means hitting the gym, exhibiting a glowing complexion, and of course, keeping the scalp of your head perfectly smooth.

Shaved Head and Beard

Even with a bald head, you can still do plenty of stylized grooming and trimming, lest we’ve forgotten the mighty beard.

bald shaved head and beard
@jishnurk

If you decided to shave your head due to going bald, then chances are you’ve got an impressive ability to grow facial hair. Recall that testosterone, which can cause baldness, also allows for admirable hair growth everywhere else. Mustache, goatee, stubble–all are able to accentuate your newly masculine “no hair don’t care” bravado.

For more on the different types of facial hair, read The Ultimate Guide to Facial Hair

How to Maintain a Shaved Head

shaved head how to maintain
@kingshayk

According to an article written by Tools of Men founder Shawn Burns (who happens himself to be a bald dude with swagger), you’ll want to shave around once every four days and use a cartridge razor. Why a cartridge razor? Because it bends to the contours of your skull and you’re able to get a cleaner shave than you can with any balding clippers. Also, many men complain that electric razors, even those designed specifically for the scalp, can cause razor bumps and irritation.

Oh, and you’ll always want a handheld mirror. Successfully shaving the back of your head is always a two-mirror minimum ordeal.

Aftershave Balm

It’s your best friend. Serving crucial nutrients for the scalp, aftershave balm will nourish and moisturize your skin without making the head too shiny (if shiny isn’t what you’re going for). And unlike aftershave lotions and splashes that contain harsh chemicals like alcohol, this stuff won’t burn.

Sheer or Spray-On Sunscreen

bald shaved head maintenance
@Sandrino83

Just as you protect all other exposed areas from the sun’s harsh UV rays, a newly debuted head surface is no different. You’ll want to use a spray-on or sheer sunscreen though. This way, you won’t get thick lotion bits stuck in your hair stubble between shaves.

The Perfect Shine

If you’d like to achieve the stud shine, arm yourself with a battalion of moisturizers and oil. This will also prevent dandruff by hydrating and softening dry skin flakes. Aloe vera is the choice lotion for stimulating scalp health and shine.

On the other hand, if you’d like to minimize the appearance of shine, simply apply some translucent pressed powder, or skin compact makeup, to the scalp after lotioning.

shaved head shine
@cab_washington

And there you have it. Shine or no shine, beard or no beard, as with all things fashion and style, it’s really about how you carry yourself. Any tips on shaved ‘dos? Leave them in the comments below.

Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Facial Hair 

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