Prevent Scalp Problems

Several scalp conditions, left untreated, may become larger problems and lead to hair loss. Below are a few common scalp problems. If any of the following conditions exist, please consult your dermatologist.

Acne

Acne is a cronic inflammatory disease of the oil glands. When the hair follicle is filled with excess oil and dirt, a blackhead forms and causes a blockage at the mouth of the follicle. This causes irritation and often leads to the development of pus-filled pimples. The treatment for mild acne is to reduce the skin's oiliness by application of cleansers morning, noon and night. Regular exfoliation can also be helpful. Several over the counter creams (such as Clearasil) containing Benzoyl Peroxide can help prevent acne. Persistent or severe acne should always be treated by a dermatologist.

Ingrown Hairs

These appear as small bumps, most often on the face scalp. Poor shaving and cleansing of the skin can cause the hair to curl over within the follicle instead of exiting the skin. Ingrown hairs are prevented by proper cleansing of the skin and proper shaving techniques (for more on shaving, click the "Shaving Advice" button to the left). Persistent problems with ingrown hairs should be treated under the advice of a dermatologist.

Psoriasis

This is an inflammatory skin disease which commonly appears on the knees, elbows, and scalp. The cause of Psoriasis is unknown and it is not contagious. The lesions are round, dry patches covered with coarse, silvery scales. Psoriasis can be a difficult problem and should be treated by a dermatologist.

Razor Bumps

Highly common among African American men, razor bumps occur when curly hair is cut close and growns back into the skin. The best treatement for razor bumps is to let the beard grow out and shave less. Proper shaving techniques can also prevent razor bumps. For more on razor bumps.

Razor Burn

A hot, red irritation of the skin caused by poor shaving techniques (most often excessive shaving and poor blade lubrication). For more on razor burn. Source...

Basic Scalp Care

A healthy scalp is essential to great looking hair. Below are tips on maintaining scalp health and preventing common problems. KEEP YOUR SCALP CLEAN!

Know What's In Your Shampoo

The scalp should be cleansed using a shampoo that is mild as possible. Try to find a shampoo that is acid based, rather than alkaline based. Acid based shampoos are more mild to the skin (and hair). Look for shampoos that have a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. Also, look at the ingredients in your shampoo. The key cleanser used in many shampoos is Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Look for shampoos which contain Sodium Myreth Sulfate instead. The larger molecular structure of Sodium Myreth prevents penetration into the hair shaft or skin, is exceptionally gentle, and won't strip moisture from the hair and skin. Kenra makes an excellent line of shampoos formulated with Sodium Myreth Sulfate as the key cleanser.

Exfoliate

Once or twice per week, remove dead skin and dirt from the scalp with an exfoliating scrub made for use on the face or scalp.

Moisturize

Use of a good moisturizing conditioner (such as Paul Mitchell's Daily Conditioner) not only helps keep the hair looking good, but it's also great for helping the scalp maintain moisture.

Massage

A good scalp massage promotes blood flow to the scalp, soothes nerves, relaxes muscles, keeps the scalp flexible, and promotes hair growth and luster. Oh, and it feels great, too. Once per week, massage the scalp using firm pressure on upward strokes. Fingers should be placed under the hair (to avoid pulling) and massage should be performed using the balls of the fingertips in a circular motion. Massage the entire scalp for three or four minutes. Source...

How To Shave Your Head Bald

FIRST TIME HEAD SHAVERS, TAKE NOTE:

Remember, a shaved head is not for everyone. If you are extremely thin, have an oddly shaped head or scalp problems, then a bald head is probably not for you. If you decide to go for it, remember it will always grow back if you don't like it. Shaving your head will dramatically change your appearance and may take a bit of time to get used to. Many men look great with a shaved head. But to pull one off, you must have confidence in your look. Always shave your head for the first time at the start of the weekend to give you time to get comfortable with your new look (and get some color on your white scalp) before you face your friends and colleagues. Allow yourself a good half hour to get the deed done for the first time. If you think you're ready, here goes....

NOTE: THERE IS NOTHING MORE UNATTRACTIVE THAN A BALD HEAD FULL OF BUMPS, RAZOR RASH, AND IN-GROWN HAIRS. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU PREP THE SCALP, SHAVE PROPERLY, AND PROTECT AFTERWARD. DO NOT SKIP ANY OF THE STEPS BELOW. THE FIRST TIME YOU SHAVE, THE PROCESS WILL TAKE ROUGHLY 30 MINUTES. WITH TIME AND PRACTICE, YOU WILL GET THE ROUTINE DOWN TO UNDER TEN. GOOD LUCK.

STEP ONE: THE PRE-SHAVE (FOR FIRST-TIMERS)

The first step in shaving your head is to remove as much of the hair as possible. Using a hair clipper with no guard, buzz the hair off as close to the scalp as possible.

STEP TWO: PREP

Always shave your head after or at the end of a shower, to soften the hair, open the pores, and cleanse the skin. Your shower should last at least 10 minutes. During the shower, lightly soap a washcloth and with a slight pressure glide the cloth all over your head against the grain. This will lift the hair for easier shaving. Rinse your head and the washcloth remain in the shower for few additional minutes. Next, apply a good shave cream and let it stand for a few minutes to soften the hair even more. I swear b Truefitt and Hill's Shave Cream. Stay away from gels or products which contain menthol, which will close your pores and stiffen the hair. Shaving cream is ideally applied with a brush to soften and lift the hair. Never skimp on the preparation. This is vital to a good head shave!

First time shavers should exfoliate the scalp before applying the shaving cream (veteran baldies, should exfoliate twice weekly). Use a loofa or special facial scrub.

STEP THREE: SHAVE

Always have a hand mirror available so you can check the shave from all angles. You don't want to miss anything. Also, shave your head at the sink and make sure you have bright lighting. Proper lighting very important.

Use a clean, sharp razor such as the Gillette Mach3 or a HeadBlade. 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. Avoid applying pressure (you don't want nicks or cuts) and rinse your blade often. Take it easy, pay attention, and be patient. You don't want to rush or get clumsy during this process.

After completing the shave, apply a small amount of lather to your hands and rub your entire head, checking for rough spots (sometimes you can't see them), especially behind the ears and on the back of the neck. Shave over any missed places. If you must have a closer shave, re-lather and shave lightly against the grain. Remember, shaving an area over and over can cause razor burn, so try to avoid it. If you cut yourself, apply a moist alum block on the area to stop bleeding. After shaving, close the pores with a rinse of cool water.

If using a shaving brush, always hang the brush to dry with the bristles facing downward.

Shave your head daily. The process will be easier if you do.

STEP FOUR: TONE

Many men make the mistake of stopping with step two, but the following is important to keep your skin healthy and protect from signs of aging. After rinsing with cool water, tone the skin with an alcohol-free astringent (Crew's Herbal Astringent is excellent). This will remove dead skin, excess dirt and oils.

STEP FIVE: MOISTURIZE AND PROTECT

You will need to hydrate and protect the skin. Finishing with a moisturizer (preferrably one with sunscreen added) is key to leaving the skin soft, smooth, and protected.

Remember, you should always wear sunscreen on your head. The skin on your head is more sensitive and very susceptible to skin cancer. First time shavers will want to get some color on their scalp. I recommend the use of a self-tanning cream rather than exteneded sun exposure. With time, your scalp will develop color and you will not have to apply self-tanning cream Be sure to buy a high-quality self-tanner and test it on a hidden part of your body to make sure the color looks natural. You don't want to walk around with a big, orange, bald head!

Now, go out and proudly show off that bald head of yours! Source...

Tips for Shaving Your Head

For men, having a smooth bald head is becoming very popular, especially since NBA start and girl magnet Michael Jordan showed off his bald head.

Years ago, shaving your head bald was probably not the first hair cut choice for men, but now having a shaved head is a fashion statement for men, giving you a sharp and sophisticated look.

Just take a look at some male celebrities who are using the bald head style such as Vin Diesel, Bruce Willis, and even movie characters like Hitman and even some women celebrities wanted to try the look (Britney Spears).

So why are so many men deciding to shave it all off? Having a shaved head actually helps highlight the more masculine features you have. You can take more advantage of your eyes or strong chin.

But before you rush into the bathroom to shave your head be aware that the bald head style is not for every man. In reality you have to find the men's haircut style that fits you, the shape of your face, the structure of your facial bones, your hairline etc. The best candidates for the bald head style are men who have a round shaped head, not pointy. But to get an idea if the bald head style is for you, try wearing a swimming cap and see how it looks.

So if the bald head style is for you, here are 5 steps on how to shave your head bald. They are easy to follow and remember to take a hot shower first to open up your pores and soften your hair to get a close shave.

1. If you are starting out with long hair, then start by getting your hair trimmed, if possible to a buzz cut style or similar. You can ask your barber for help or do it at home, just be careful and patient.

2. Now that your head is ready for shaving, you need the right head shaving products. For the bald head style we only recommend HeadBlade, this product is designed for men who shave their head bald and also Bold for Men.

3. Apply the head shaving cream and let it soak in for 1-2 minutes.

4. Use the HeadBlade Razor, it's the easiest, safest and modern way to go about shaving your head.

5. Once you're done rinse off and apply the HeadBlade moisturizer

And that's it! Enjoy your new bald head style! This is all you need to do. It may not come perfect the first time, but as you become used to it, it will be a walk in the park. Source...

Avoid sun, avoid skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer, and its incidence is increasing. The #1 defense against skin cancer is prevention. When you are outdoors, follow these guidelines:

1. Stay away from the midday sun and its intense rays. Try to schedule outdoor activities before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

2. Wear a T-shirt and a hat - use clothing to protect your face, arms and legs.

3. Use sunblock lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher. Cover your skin thoroughly with the protective lotion and reapply after swimming or sweating.

4. Examine your skin for any abnormalities. Seek medical treatment if you notice any changes.

Sunscreen and melanoma:

Sunscreen prevents sunburn, which is the cause of basal cell and

squamous cell carcinomas, the most common forms of skin cancer. So you should wear sunscreen if you have to be outdoors.

However, don't rely on sunscreen to prevent melanoma. The only way to protect yourself against melanoma is to stay out of the sun's harmful rays. This is especially important if you have fair skin, light hair or eyes.

What you may not know?

Clouds will not protect you. Harmful rays still penetrate overcast skies. You can get sunburned, and you can damage your skin.
Water will not protect you. Even though your skin feels cool in the water, the sun's rays can penetrate up to three feet of water. You're still in danger.

Cooler temperatures will not protect you. Even in the winter, sunny days can cause sunburn.

The incidence of melanoma has more than doubled during the past 20 years. Protect yourself by recognizing the signs of disease, avoiding the sun and visiting a physician on a routine basis. Source...