KEEPING IT HEALTHY Tips for those about to join the ranks of the bald

A bald head may appear to be hassle-free, but it requires routine care and maintenance. Here are tips and reminders for those looking to sport a slick bean this summer:
When shaving your head, take your time, especially around the ears and hard-to-reach areas. Nicks and cuts are unsightly and take time to heal, delaying the next shave and creating a stubbly look. Straight razors tend to cut closer than disposables, but the potential for nicks is higher.
Electric razors sufficiently shear in some cases. If wet-shaving for the closest cut, use a pre-shave oil to soften hairs and the scalp and to allow the razor to glide more smoothly.
Shaving is a form of exfoliating skin, which is a good thing. To stimulate circulation, regularly give your scalp a finger massage with natural oils or moisturizers and occasionally apply a facial scrub or mask.
Avoid using products that contain alcohol because they dry the skin. Use gentler alcohol-free astringents and toners.
Keep the scalp moist with a cream or lotion. Occasionally use an overnight cream infused with vitamins, botanicals or essential oils to maintain a healthy scalp. Shea, cocoa and avocado butters are excellent skin conditioners.
Liberally apply and reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen, regardless of your skin color. Skin cancer is on the rise, and bald heads are especially susceptible to the sun's dangerous ultraviolet radiation. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and dermatologists recommend products with an SPF minimum of 15, plus an active anti-UVA ingredient such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or avobenzone (also called Parsol 1789).
Wear a hat, preferably one with a wide brim to protect the head and neck against sun damage. Eighty percent of skin cancers occur on the head and neck, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
If you have or develop a skin discoloration on the head, be sure to apply sunblock to prevent hyper-pigmentation. Using fade cream on blotchy or uneven spots at night also can help to even out skin tone.
If you have vitiligo, melasma, solar lentigo or some other skin pigmentation disorder, a bald head is at increased risk for sun damage.
If you're considering joining the ranks of the bald, ask a barber or beautician whether baldness will flatter your head shape and facial features.