Best Shampoo for Bald Head: Keep Your Scalp Clean and Healthy

Last updated: February 2026 by Darius Washington, Black Men’s Grooming Editor

I shaved my head for the first time at 22. Figured grooming would get simpler. No shampoo, no conditioner, no detangling sessions. Just soap and water. Within two weeks my scalp looked like it was shedding a second skin. Flaky, ashy, and embarrassingly visible under barbershop fluorescents. My barber looked at me and said, “Bro, you still have a scalp. You still need to take care of it.” He was right. Finding the best shampoo for bald head care changed everything about how my scalp looked and felt.

This guide covers why shampoo still matters after you go bald, what ingredients actually work, and my top 10 product picks for every scalp type and budget. I also cover wash frequency, exfoliation, sun protection, and the complete scalp care routine that keeps a bald head looking clean instead of crusty.

If you only read one section, jump to the ingredients breakdown. Matching your cleanser to your specific scalp concern is the difference between a healthy shine and an oily mess.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Why Bald Heads Still Need Shampoo

I hear it every time someone finds out I write about scalp care for bald men. “Why would you need shampoo if you don’t have hair?” Because shampoo was never just about hair. It is about your scalp, and your scalp does not stop working just because you shaved.

Here is what your scalp does every single day, whether you have hair or not:

• Produces sebum. Your scalp contains more sebaceous glands per square centimeter than almost any other part of your body. Those glands keep pumping oil whether you have a full afro or a clean shave. Without regular cleansing, that oil oxidizes and creates a greasy, sometimes smelly film.
• Sheds dead skin cells. Your skin renews itself roughly every 28 days. On a bald head, those dead cells have nowhere to hide. Without washing, they accumulate into visible flakes that sit right on top of your exposed scalp for everyone to see.
• Collects environmental debris. Dust, pollution, pollen, and sweat all land directly on your scalp. Add sunscreen and moisturizer on top of that, and you have a layer of product residue that needs actual cleansing to remove.
• Hosts microorganisms. Malassezia, the yeast responsible for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, thrives in oily environments. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that regular cleansing with antifungal shampoos significantly reduced Malassezia colonization and associated scalp irritation.

For Black men specifically, a bald head presents unique visibility challenges. Ashiness shows immediately. Flaking is impossible to hide. Razor bumps from head shaving, known clinically as pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), affect up to 80% of Black men who shave (Halder, 1983; Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology). The right cleanser keeps your scalp clear of the dead skin and bacteria that contribute to these bumps. If you are dealing with razor bumps from head shaving, our guide on the best razor for Black men covers prevention techniques in detail.

Bottom line: going bald simplifies your hair routine, but it does not eliminate your scalp care routine. It just changes what products you need.

Ingredients to Look For (and What They Actually Do)

Not every shampoo ingredient matters for a bald head. Some are designed for hair strands you no longer have. Others target the scalp directly and become more important once that skin is fully exposed. Here is what to prioritize based on your specific scalp concern.

For Oily Scalps and Buildup

For Dry, Flaky, or Ashy Scalps

For Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis

If you are dealing with persistent flaking, check our roundup of the best dandruff shampoo for Black men for deeper coverage on each antifungal ingredient.

Ingredients to Avoid

Some ingredients common in regular shampoos cause more problems on a bald head than they solve:

• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): Strips the scalp aggressively. Fine for thick hair that needs degreasing. Too harsh for exposed skin, especially if you shave regularly.
• Heavy silicones (dimethicone, cyclomethicone): Designed to coat hair strands. On a bald head, they just create a film that traps sweat and bacteria.
• High-concentration alcohol (SD alcohol, denatured alcohol): Dries out the scalp and accelerates flaking. Some alcohol (cetyl, cetearyl) is fine; those are fatty alcohols that actually moisturize.
• Artificial fragrance: Common irritant on freshly shaved skin. If your scalp gets red or itchy after washing, fragrance is often the culprit.

Detailed Reviews: The 10 Best Shampoos for a Bald Head

1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser (Best Overall)

I know what you are thinking. This is a face wash, not a shampoo. That is exactly why it works. Once you are bald, your scalp is just facial skin that happens to sit on top of your head. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser treats it that way. It contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that rebuild your skin’s moisture barrier, niacinamide to calm inflammation, and hyaluronic acid to retain moisture. The foaming action is gentle enough for daily use without stripping.

Works for: Every scalp type, but especially dry or sensitive scalps. Black men who shave their heads and deal with post-shave tightness or ashiness will notice an immediate difference. Also ideal if you layer sunscreen daily and need thorough but gentle removal.

Does not work for: Severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. CeraVe cleans well, but it lacks antifungal active ingredients. If you have visible yellow flakes or persistent itching, you need a medicated shampoo like Nizoral for treatment days and CeraVe for maintenance days.

Price: $15-18 for 16 oz. This bottle lasts 2 to 3 months on a bald head, making it one of the best values on this list.

Check price on CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

2. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (Best for Dandruff)

Nizoral is not fancy. It does not smell luxury. It will not impress anyone in your shower caddy. But it contains 1% ketoconazole, which is the most effective over-the-counter antifungal ingredient available for scalp conditions. A 2015 systematic review in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment confirmed that ketoconazole shampoo significantly reduces Malassezia colonization and associated inflammation compared to placebo.

For bald heads specifically, dandruff does not hide. Every flake is a billboard. Nizoral kills the yeast that causes those flakes rather than just washing them away temporarily.

Works for: Seborrheic dermatitis, persistent dandruff, itchy or inflamed scalps. Use 2 to 3 times per week, leaving it on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Use a gentler cleanser on off days.

Does not work for: Daily use. Ketoconazole is a medication, not a daily cleanser. Using it every day can dry out your scalp and cause the exact flaking you are trying to prevent. Also not great for men who want a pleasant shower experience. The formula is clinical and the scent is medicinal.

Price: $15-17 for 7 oz. You use it less frequently, so it lasts longer than you would expect.

Check price on Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

3. Bevel Moisturizing Shampoo (Best for Black Men)

Bevel was founded by Tristan Walker specifically to solve grooming problems that disproportionately affect Black men. Their shampoo contains shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E in a sulfate-free formula designed for scalps that tend toward dryness. On a bald head, it cleans without leaving that stripped, tight feeling that sends you reaching for moisturizer immediately after the shower.

What I appreciate about Bevel is the understanding baked into the formula. This is not a generic men’s shampoo with “works for all types” on the label. It was built for our scalps.

Works for: Black men with dry to normal scalps who shave their heads. Excellent for men who experience post-shave dryness, ashiness, or razor irritation. Pairs well with Bevel’s full shave system for head shavers. If you are looking at aftershaves for Black men, Bevel makes a strong companion product.

Does not work for: Very oily scalps. The shea butter and coconut oil can leave an oily residue if your scalp already overproduces sebum. Also not medicated, so it will not treat dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis on its own.

Price: $12-15 for 12 oz. Mid-range pricing from a Black-owned brand with quality ingredients.

Check price on Bevel Moisturizing Shampoo

4. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo (Best for Buildup)

If your bald head collects product like mine does, Neutrogena T/Sal is your weekly reset button. It contains 3% salicylic acid, which is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that dissolves dead skin, unclogs pores, and cuts through sunscreen and moisturizer residue. Think of it as a chemical exfoliant in shampoo form.

Here is the thing about bald heads that nobody tells you. You layer sunscreen every morning (you should be; more on that below). You add moisturizer. Maybe a mattifying product. By the end of the week, that is five to seven layers of product that regular shampoo does not fully remove. T/Sal strips it back to zero.

Works for: Oily scalps, product buildup, scalp psoriasis, stubborn flaking that does not respond to antifungal shampoos. Use once or twice a week as a clarifying treatment.

Does not work for: Daily use. Salicylic acid at 3% will overdry your scalp if used every day. Also not ideal for men with very dry or sensitive scalps; the exfoliation can cause irritation on compromised skin.

Price: $8-11 for 4.5 oz. Small bottle, but you only use it once or twice a week.

Check price on Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo

5. Bee Bald Clean Head Wash (Best Bald-Specific Formula)

Bee Bald is one of the few brands that designs products exclusively for bald and shaved heads. Their Clean Head Wash combines tea tree oil, menthol, and amino acids in a sulfate-free formula. The menthol gives a cooling sensation that feels great on a freshly shaved scalp, and the tea tree oil provides natural antibacterial and antifungal protection.

I respect that this product does not pretend to be a hair shampoo that also works on bald heads. It was formulated for this specific use case from day one.

Works for: Men who shave their heads regularly and want a purpose-built cleanser. Good for all scalp types. The menthol cooling sensation helps with post-shave irritation. If you use balding clippers for a close cut, this wash pairs perfectly with that routine.

Does not work for: Men who dislike menthol or cooling sensations. If your scalp is currently irritated or has open razor nicks, the menthol will sting. Wait until your skin heals before using.

Price: $10-13 for 6 oz. Fair price for a specialty product.

Check price on Bee Bald Clean Head Wash

6. Dove Men+Care Dermacare Scalp (Best Budget Pick)

Not everybody wants to spend $20 on a scalp cleanser, and they should not have to. Dove Men+Care Dermacare Scalp contains 1% zinc pyrithione, which is the same active ingredient used in more expensive anti-dandruff shampoos. It also includes caffeine, which some research suggests may stimulate scalp circulation, though the evidence for topical caffeine’s benefits is still developing.

For under $10, you get a solid antifungal cleanser that fights flaking, calms mild irritation, and cleans well enough for daily or every-other-day use.

Works for: Men on a budget who need basic dandruff control and daily cleansing. Widely available at every drugstore, Target, and Walmart. Excellent entry-level scalp care product.

Does not work for: Moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis. The 1% zinc pyrithione handles mild flaking, but stubborn cases need ketoconazole (Nizoral). Also somewhat drying for daily use on very dry scalps.

Price: $6-9 for 12 oz. Best value on this entire list.

Check price on Dove Men+Care Dermacare Scalp

7. Jack Black True Volume Thickening Shampoo (Best Premium Daily Wash)

Ignore the “thickening” label. That is for men with thinning hair. What matters for bald heads is the formula: a blend of tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus that provides natural antimicrobial protection with an invigorating sensory experience. Jack Black uses sulfate-free surfactants that clean thoroughly without the stripped feeling. The peppermint oil leaves your scalp feeling awake.

Works for: Men who want a premium daily wash experience. Normal to oily scalps. The tea tree oil provides light antifungal action, and the peppermint stimulates circulation. This is the shampoo you use when you want your shower routine to feel elevated.

Does not work for: Budget-conscious men. At $22-28, it costs significantly more than equally effective options like CeraVe or Dove. Also too stimulating (menthol, peppermint) for severely irritated or freshly shaved scalps.

Price: $22-28 for 16 oz. Premium pricing, but the bottle lasts.

Check price on Jack Black True Volume Thickening Shampoo

8. Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo (Best for Sensitive Scalps)

If your scalp reacts to everything, Baxter of California offers one of the gentlest formulas I have tested. It contains vitamin E, mint, and tea tree oil in a light formula that will not trigger sensitivity. The lather is minimal, which might feel strange if you are used to traditional shampoos, but that low-lather formula is exactly why it is gentle enough for reactive skin.

Works for: Sensitive scalps that react to fragrance, sulfates, or harsh surfactants. Men with eczema-prone scalps or those recovering from aggressive head shaving. Good for daily use without accumulating irritation.

Does not work for: Oily scalps that need strong degreasing. The gentle formula may not cut through heavy sunscreen or moisturizer buildup. Pair with T/Sal once a week if you need periodic deep cleansing.

Price: $20-25 for 8 oz. Smaller bottle at a premium price, so the per-ounce cost is high.

Check price on Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Shampoo

9. Frederick Benjamin Hydro Glaze (Best Black-Owned Brand Pick)

Frederick Benjamin builds products specifically for Black men, and their Hydro Glaze scalp moisturizer doubles as a cleansing and conditioning treatment. It contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, cucumber extract for cooling, and aloe for soothing post-shave irritation. The lightweight formula absorbs without leaving greasy residue.

This is the pick for men who struggle with ashiness and dryness on their bald heads. Frederick Benjamin understands that Black men’s scalp care is not the same as general men’s scalp care, and their formulations reflect that.

Works for: Dry, ashy scalps, especially on darker skin tones where dryness is most visible. Excellent paired with a regular cleanser as a post-wash hydrating treatment. Black-owned brand with products designed for textured hair and darker skin from the ground up.

Does not work for: Oil control or dandruff treatment. This is a hydration product, not a medicated one. If your issue is flaking from seborrheic dermatitis rather than dry skin, you need an antifungal first.

Price: $14-18 for 5 oz. Small bottle for the price, but the specialized formula justifies the cost.

Check price on Frederick Benjamin Hydro Glaze

10. HeadBlade HeadLube Glossy (Best Post-Wash Moisturizer Combo)

HeadBlade designed their entire product line for head shavers. HeadLube Glossy is technically a moisturizer, but many bald men use it as a post-wash finishing product that completes the cleansing routine. It contains menthol for cooling, green tea for antioxidant protection, and aloe for hydration. The “glossy” finish gives your head a healthy sheen rather than a dry matte look.

Works for: Men who shave their heads with a razor and want a complete care system. Use after any shampoo or cleanser on this list. The menthol soothes post-shave irritation, and the finish looks intentional rather than greasy. If you already use lotion on your body, think of this as the scalp-specific version.

Does not work for: Men who prefer a completely matte finish. The “glossy” name is accurate; your head will have a visible sheen. If you want matte, look at HeadLube Matte instead.

Price: $12-16 for 5 oz. Best used as a complement to a cleanser, not a replacement.

Check price on HeadBlade HeadLube Glossy

Budget Breakdown: Good, Better, Best

You do not need to spend $30 a month on scalp care. Here is how to build a routine at three price points.

My honest recommendation for most men: the “Better” tier. CeraVe plus Nizoral covers 90% of bald head scalp issues at a price that does not hurt.

How Often Should You Wash a Bald Head?

This is the question I get asked most, and the answer depends on three factors: how oily your scalp is, how much product you apply daily, and how active you are.

Wash Frequency Guide

One rule that applies to everyone: if you applied sunscreen that morning, you need to wash that evening. Sunscreen is designed to sit on your skin and block UV. It is not designed to stay there for 24 hours accumulating sweat and bacteria. Sleeping with sunscreen residue on your scalp is a fast track to clogged pores and breakouts.

If your scalp gets oily by midday, that does not necessarily mean you need to wash more often. Sometimes oiliness is a response to overwashing. When you strip too much oil, your sebaceous glands overcompensate by producing even more. Try spacing your washes out by one extra day and using a gentler cleanser. Your scalp may recalibrate within 2 to 3 weeks.

Common Bald Head Scalp Issues (and How to Fix Them)

Going bald does not give you fewer scalp problems. It gives you different ones. Here are the most common issues I see and how to address each one.

Oiliness and Shine

Some shine on a bald head is natural and healthy. Excessive oiliness that makes your head look wet by noon is not. If you deal with this, look at two factors before switching products. First, are you overwashing? Paradoxically, washing too frequently with harsh products triggers rebound oil production. Try reducing to every other day with a gentle cleanser and see if your scalp stabilizes after 2 to 3 weeks. Second, check your moisturizer. Heavy creams and oils meant for hair (coconut oil, shea butter) are too heavy for an exposed scalp. Switch to a lightweight, water-based moisturizer or gel formula.

Recommended product: Neutrogena T/Sal once a week to deep clean, CeraVe daily for maintenance.

Dryness, Tightness, and Ashiness

For Black men, ashiness on a bald head is the most visible scalp issue. That gray, dry film shows up against darker skin tones like chalk on a blackboard. The fix is a two-part approach: gentle cleansing (never SLS-based shampoos) plus consistent moisturizing immediately after washing while the scalp is still damp.

I learned this from trial and error. Moisturizer works best on damp skin because the water acts as a vehicle that helps the moisturizer penetrate. Applying lotion to a bone-dry scalp just creates a film on top of dry skin. Wash, pat your scalp until it is 80% dry, then apply moisturizer immediately.

Recommended product: Bevel Moisturizing Shampoo plus Frederick Benjamin Hydro Glaze.

Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis

Dandruff does not require hair. The flaking comes from your scalp, not your strands. On a bald head, dandruff is more visible but also more accessible to treatment, since active ingredients can reach the scalp directly without fighting through hair.

There are two types of flaking, and the treatment differs completely:

• Dry skin flakes: Small, white, powdery flakes. Caused by dehydration. Treat with hydrating cleanser and moisturizer.
• Seborrheic dermatitis flakes: Larger, yellowish, oily flakes often accompanied by redness and itching. Caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth. Treat with antifungal shampoo (ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione).

Using a moisturizing shampoo on fungal dandruff makes it worse because you are feeding the yeast. Using an antifungal on dry skin flaking overdries it and makes that worse too. Identify which type you have first.

Recommended product: Nizoral A-D 2-3x per week for seborrheic dermatitis. CeraVe plus moisturizer for dry skin flaking.

Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs

Pseudofolliculitis barbae on the scalp follows the same mechanics as on the face. Tightly coiled hair curls back into the skin after shaving, causing inflammation, bumps, and sometimes infection. This affects Black men at significantly higher rates due to hair curl pattern.

For scalp PFB, the shampoo you use matters because it either helps or hinders the skin’s ability to heal and shed properly. A salicylic acid wash (like T/Sal) used 2 to 3 times per week after shaving helps prevent ingrown hairs by chemically exfoliating the skin surface. Avoid any shampoo with heavy silicones, as they can trap growing hairs beneath a film. Our guide to the best razors for Black men covers shaving technique to minimize bumps in the first place.

Recommended product: Neutrogena T/Sal 2x per week, Bee Bald Clean Head Wash on other days.

Sun Damage and Hyperpigmentation

Your scalp is one of the most sun-exposed areas of your body when you are bald. Over time, UV damage causes dark spots, uneven tone, and increased skin cancer risk. While melanin-rich skin has some natural protection, it is not immunity. A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that skin cancers in Black patients are often diagnosed at later stages, resulting in worse outcomes. Prevention is everything.

Shampoo alone will not fix sun damage, but the right cleanser supports the overall routine. Use a gentle wash that does not strip the barrier (CeraVe), followed by a vitamin C serum or niacinamide moisturizer to address existing hyperpigmentation, followed by SPF every single morning.

Sun Protection: The Most Important Step for Bald Heads

I need to be direct about this. SPF is more important for a bald head than any shampoo, moisturizer, or treatment on this list. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that the scalp accounts for approximately 13% of all melanomas in men. A bald head catches every UV ray with no hair buffer.

For Black men, I have heard the myth my entire life: “We don’t need sunscreen; melanin protects us.” Melanin provides a baseline SPF equivalent of roughly 13 for very dark skin, according to research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. That is helpful, but it is nowhere near sufficient for all-day sun exposure on a bald scalp. Black men can and do develop skin cancer, and scalp cancers are especially dangerous because they go unnoticed until advanced stages.

Here is what I recommend for daily scalp sun protection:

• Minimum SPF 30, broad-spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB).
• Apply every morning, not just on sunny days. UV penetrates clouds.
• Reapply every 2 hours during extended outdoor time.
• Spray formulas are easiest for scalp application. Look for sport or face-specific sprays that do not leave a white cast on dark skin.
• Wash off every evening with your regular cleanser. Sleeping in sunscreen causes buildup.

If you want the comprehensive guide to caring for a bald Black head, we cover SPF products, moisturizers, and the complete routine in detail.

Exfoliation: The Step Most Bald Men Skip

Your scalp sheds dead skin cells constantly. With hair, those cells flake off invisibly into your strands. Without hair, they sit on a smooth surface like dust on a table. Regular exfoliation prevents that buildup from becoming visible flaking, clogged pores, or ingrown hairs.

Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliation

My recommendation: chemical exfoliation wins for bald heads. Salicylic acid at 2% dissolves dead skin evenly without the micro-tear risk that physical scrubs pose on recently shaved scalps. Neutrogena T/Sal (3% salicylic acid) works as a once-weekly exfoliating treatment. Apply, let it sit for 60 to 90 seconds, then rinse. Follow with your regular moisturizer.

Physical scrubs are not off the table entirely. If your scalp is very oily and you do not shave with a razor (using clippers instead for a close buzz), a gentle scalp scrub can feel satisfying and effective. Just avoid using one within 48 hours of a razor shave to prevent irritation.

Building Your Bald Head Scalp Routine

Here is the complete daily and weekly routine I use and recommend to every bald man I talk to. Adapt the products based on your scalp type, but keep the structure.

Morning Routine (Every Day)

1. Rinse your scalp with warm water in the shower. Not every morning requires shampoo.
2. Cleanse with your daily wash (CeraVe, Bevel, Bee Bald, or your choice) on wash days. On non-wash days, water and a gentle wipe with a microfiber towel is enough.
3. Moisturize while scalp is still damp. Apply a lightweight moisturizer or hydrating gel.
4. SPF after moisturizer has absorbed (2 to 3 minutes). SPF 30+ broad-spectrum, every day without exception.

Evening Routine (Wash Days)

1. Cleanse to remove sunscreen, sweat, and environmental debris from the day.
2. Treat with medicated shampoo if applicable (Nizoral, T/Sal). Let active ingredients sit for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing.
3. Moisturize on damp scalp. Evening moisturizer can be slightly heavier than morning since you are not layering SPF on top.

Weekly Treatment (Pick One Based on Concern)

• Dandruff: Nizoral A-D, 2-3x per week, 3-5 minute contact time.
• Buildup: Neutrogena T/Sal, 1-2x per week, 60-90 second contact time.
• Dryness: Frederick Benjamin Hydro Glaze or deep-conditioning scalp treatment, 1x per week.
• Razor bumps: Salicylic acid wash (T/Sal) 2x per week post-shave days.

If you are also growing out a beard to complement the bald look, our guide to beard styles for bald men has specific pairing recommendations. And for the tools you need to maintain the shave itself, see our roundup of the best balding clippers.

Common Mistakes Bald Men Make With Scalp Care

I made most of these mistakes myself. Took me a year of trial and error to get the routine right. Save yourself the trouble.

1. Using body soap or bar soap on the scalp. Bar soap is alkaline (pH 9-10). Your scalp’s natural pH is around 5.5. That mismatch strips your acid mantle and causes dryness, irritation, and rebound oiliness. Use a proper facial cleanser or scalp wash.
2. Skipping moisturizer because “my head is already oily.” Oiliness and hydration are different things. Your scalp can be oily (excess sebum) and dehydrated (lacking water) at the same time. A lightweight, water-based moisturizer addresses the dehydration without adding more oil.
3. Skipping SPF. I cannot stress this enough. Every dermatologist I have spoken to puts SPF as the number one scalp care product for bald men, above shampoo, moisturizer, and everything else.
4. Using hair-focused products. Shampoos formulated for thick, curly, or textured hair contain heavy oils and conditioning agents designed to coat hair strands. On a bald head, those same ingredients create a greasy film. Choose products formulated for skin, not hair.
5. Overwashing. Washing your bald head three times a day because it “feels dirty” strips your scalp and triggers an overproduction cycle. Stick to once or twice a day maximum with a gentle cleanser.
6. Ignoring the back of your head. When you wash your head yourself, you tend to focus on the top and sides where you can feel. The back of your scalp collects the same oil, sweat, and product residue. Use a mirror or just be intentional about reaching every area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you really need shampoo if you are bald?

Yes. Your scalp still produces sebum, sheds dead skin cells, and collects sweat, sunscreen residue, and environmental pollutants every day. Without shampoo or a proper cleanser, this buildup accumulates and can cause flaking, clogged pores, folliculitis, and visible greasiness. Even if you have no hair at all, your scalp needs regular cleansing 3 to 4 times per week to stay healthy and look clean.

How often should you wash a bald head?

Most dermatologists recommend washing a bald head every other day or 3 to 4 times per week. If you work out daily, sweat heavily, or apply sunscreen and moisturizer every morning, you may need to wash daily with a gentle cleanser. If your scalp tends toward dryness, every other day with a hydrating formula works better. The key is balancing oil removal with moisture retention.

What ingredients should you look for in a bald head shampoo?

For general maintenance, look for gentle surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium cocoyl isethionate, plus hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. For oily scalps, salicylic acid at 2 to 3 percent helps control sebum. For flaky scalps, zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole targets dandruff fungus. Tea tree oil at 5 percent concentration provides antifungal and antibacterial benefits. Avoid sodium lauryl sulfate if your scalp runs dry.

Can you use face wash on a bald head instead of shampoo?

Yes, and many dermatologists actually recommend it. Your scalp skin is structurally similar to facial skin, especially once the hair is removed. A gentle foaming facial cleanser like CeraVe works well because it cleans without stripping and is pH-balanced for skin rather than hair. Dedicated scalp shampoos may still be necessary if you need active ingredients like salicylic acid or ketoconazole for specific conditions.

What causes flaking on a bald head and how do you stop it?

Flaking has three common causes. Seborrheic dermatitis from Malassezia yeast causes oily, yellowish flakes; treat with ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione shampoo. Dry skin flaking from overwashing or harsh products causes small white flakes; treat with a gentle cleanser and ceramide moisturizer. Product buildup from layered sunscreen and moisturizer causes waxy flakes; treat with a salicylic acid shampoo once or twice a week. Identify your type before choosing a treatment.

Should you exfoliate a bald head?

Yes, 1 to 2 times per week. Chemical exfoliation with 2% salicylic acid is gentler and more effective than physical scrubs for bald heads. Apply a salicylic acid wash, let it sit for 60 seconds, then rinse. This prevents flaking, reduces ingrown hairs from head shaving, and keeps your scalp smooth. Avoid physical scrubs within 48 hours of a razor shave to prevent micro-tears on sensitive skin.

Is SPF important for a bald head?

SPF is the single most important product for a bald head. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that the scalp accounts for approximately 13 percent of all melanomas in men. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, reapply every 2 hours during outdoor exposure. For Black men, melanin provides some baseline protection but does not eliminate skin cancer risk. SPF also prevents hyperpigmentation and premature aging on the scalp.

The Bottom Line

Going bald simplifies a lot. Your scalp care should not be one of the things you simplify to zero. Here is what matters:

• Cleanse 3-4 times per week with a gentle, scalp-appropriate wash. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is my top pick for most men.
• Treat specific concerns with targeted active ingredients: ketoconazole for dandruff, salicylic acid for buildup, ceramides for dryness.
• Moisturize on damp skin immediately after washing. This prevents ashiness and maintains your skin barrier.
• SPF every single morning. Non-negotiable. Your scalp is exposed skin, and it needs protection.
• Exfoliate once a week with a chemical exfoliant to prevent dead skin buildup and ingrown hairs.

Your next step: pick one cleanser from this list that matches your scalp type, use it consistently for 3 weeks, and assess. If you are building a complete bald head care system, our bald Black men head care guide covers everything from razors to moisturizers to hats.

Already have the shave dialed in? Check out the benefits of shaving your head if you are still on the fence, or explore beard styles that pair with a bald head for the complete look.

Your scalp deserves the same attention your face gets. Give it the right cleanser, and it will reward you with skin that looks clean, feels comfortable, and stays healthy for years.