11 Ways to Stop Bald Head Shine 2024 (Matte Bald Look)

Bald head shine is mainly caused by excess sebum (natural scalp oil) production. 

Thus, it’s a delicate process of getting rid of the shine while not drying out the scalp, which in turn causes more sebum production.

The best way to stop bald head shine is to use mattifying products and care for your bald head the right way.

Here are the best tips that helped me to get my oily scalp under control.

1. Use Baby Powder for Fast Results

Baby powder is my secret weapon when I’m in a pinch and need a quick fix for my shiny bald head.

Not only is it the ideal home remedy for shiny bald heads, but it’s also incredibly effective in managing moisture, and provides an instant matte effect.

And the best part? It’s dirt cheap and can be found at any grocery store or pharmacy. 

One time I had a big presentation at work for foreign colleagues, and my head was reflecting like a disco ball. And wiping it off didn’t work because I was just so stressed.

Then I quickly ran into a local mall and grabbed some baby powder. The presentation went well, and I managed the oil and got an instant matte finish. 

Just keep in mind that while baby powder is great for a quick fix, it’s not a long-term solution for a matte bald head.

It basically dries out the oil on your scalp, which can actually cause your hair follicles to produce more sebum to moisturize the scalp. 

So use it sparingly and save it for those emergency situations.

2. Use Dedicated Oil Mattifier Products

Matte-finish products offer the best and longest lasting anti-shine for bald heads.

These dedicated oil mattifiers are specially designed to instantly absorb excess oil and control shine for hours on end. 

It’s like having a personal anti-shine bodyguard for your bald head. And the best part?

Unlike using baby powder, that sometimes dry out your scalp and cause even more sebum production, mattifiers remove the shine while keeping the scalp hydrated.

What a time to be alive! Some shiny scalp mattifying products that I use and like are:

• Mary Kay Oil Mattifier
• Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel

3. Use Matte-Finish Moisturizers

Using an anti-shine moisturizer specifically designed for bald heads can effectively stop shine on your bald head and create a natural matte look. 

These moisturizers are lightweight and offer a matte effect while keeping your head hydrated. 

I remember when I first started shaving my head, I used my wifes’ creams to moisturize my dome. Of course, I chose the greasy one that took forever to absorb.

Long story short, I found out pretty quickly that I definitely need to avoid heavy oils, and it actually matters what you put onto your scalp.

Based on my experience, I would say that there is one drawdown.

Mattifying moisturizers do not have the same strong mattifying effect as dedicated oil mattifying products, but they are decent enough and definitely worth trying out. 

Protip: When choosing a matte moisturizer, look for one with the least artificial ingredients and labeled as anti-shine or mattifying. Some keywords to look for are anti-shine, anti-oil, matte, mattifying, mattificant, matte finish, oil control, lightweight, or easily absorbed. 

4. Avoid Hot Showers

One of the keys to achieving a shine-free bald head is to avoid hot showers. I learned this the hard way when I first started shaving my head. 

I used to (still do) love taking long, steamy showers, but little did I know that the heat was actually causing my scalp to produce more oil. 

Hot water can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to an overproduction of oil to compensate. 

So instead of cranking up the heat, opt for lukewarm water when you shower. And if you’re feeling really brave, go for a cold shower!

Not only will it help keep your bald head shine-free, but it’s also great for your overall health. 

Protip: According to Dr. Sharad, the recommended temperature for a shower is 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F). The duration of a shower should be between 5-15 mins as longer showers can strip moisture from your skin, making it dehydrated and causing more sebum production.

5. Use Oil Wipes

Another way to remove shine from a bald head is to use scalp oil wipes or blotting papers. 

These types of sheets are designed to absorb excess oil and greasiness, leaving your head looking matte and shine-free. 

I always keep a pack of oil wipes in my car, so I can manage my greasy bald head when on the go and remove unwanted shine throughout the day. 

You can also opt for regular toilet paper or disposable wipes, but they are not as effective for a very greasy head.

I like the ones that are specifically designed for the scalp as they also act like a moisturizer.

This is important because it helps to minimize sebum production, compared to regular toilet paper which mechanically removes the oil and, in turn, can result in more sebum production.

Some anti-shine wipes I like:

• JUNUVUNI Hair And Scalp Wipes
• Tru Clean Hair and Scalp Cleaning Wipes
• Beauty Kate Oil Absorbing Tissues

6. Wash Your Head Regularly

Regularly washing your bald head with a medicated shampoo or cleanser is the most underrated method to care for your scalp and minimize the sine.

Common belief seems to be that because there’s no hair on your head, there’s nothing to wash, but that’s far from the truth. 

Regular washing helps to remove excess oil, sweat, and debris from your scalp, preventing it from becoming too shiny (some shine is healthy and natural).

However, it’s important to avoid using regular soap as it can dry out your scalp. Instead, opt for a shampoo or cleanser specifically designed for a bald head. 

Avoid cleansers with heavy oils like mineral oil or coconut oil, as they can cause scalp buildup. Look for sulfate-free cleansers to prevent scalp dryness. 

Protip: Seek ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid, or aloe vera to soothe scalp issues like dandruff or irritation, promoting a healthier bald head.

7. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliating your scalp regularly is a great way to reduce the shine on your bald head. 

When you exfoliate, you’re removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, leaving it fresh and non-greasy.

This helps to minimize sebum production, which is the oily substance that makes your head appear shiny. 

During my first months of being bald, I developed a greasy, shiny head, which was so weird as I didn’t have that problem with hair. Not only that, but I also started to develop dandruff. 

According to ClevelandClinic, not exfoliating can cause a buildup (my case) of dead skin cells, which can lead to dandruff.

So, by exfoliating regularly, you can not only reduce shine but also prevent dandruff from forming. It’s a win-win!

Protip: Dry scalp and dandruff can both cause an itchy, flaky scalp. However, excess oil causes dandruff, and loss of moisture causes a dry scalp.

8. Use Silk or Satin Pillowcase

Here’s a hack that 99.99% of you have never thought about your pillowcase. Yes, you read that right!

Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase can actually help reduce bald head shine. One of the main reasons for a shiny bald head is an oily scalp. 

When you sleep on a regular cotton pillowcase, the fabric absorbs the oils from your scalp and transfers them back to your head when you lay on it the next night. 

It’s like a never-ending cycle of shine! 

Using a satin pillowcase helps reduce bald head shine due to its smooth, non-absorbent surface. 

Unlike cotton, satin creates less friction, reducing the risk of excessive oil transfer from the scalp to the fabric. 

This, of course, means that you need to manage and remove your scalp oil, but at least it’s not accumulating on your pillow.

9. Grow a Stubble

Growing stubble is a great way to keep your bald head from shining. You know, like Jason Statham!

Instead of going for the smooth, clean-shaven look, let some hair grow out just a bit. 

This stubble helps to minimize the shiny look because the hairs act as little absorbent sponges for any oils on your scalp. 

Either let that stubble grow longer or use clippers instead of a razor for a slightly longer but still sleek look.

10. Adjust Your Diet

Taking care of your diet is not only important for your overall health but also for keeping your bald head shine-free. 

Believe it or not, what you eat can directly affect your hair loss and scalp health. So, if you’re looking to prevent that unwanted shine on your head, adjusting your diet is the key. 

According to research, a diet rich in sugars, dairy products, and red meats can make the scalp produce more oil. 

The hormones in dairy products are believed to break down into hormones called androgens after consumption resulting in an overproduction of sebum. 

This, in turn, causes our bald domes to shine like new years eve. So, in short, minimize or avoid refined sugars and dairy if nothing else in this article has worked for you.

11. Wear a Hat

When it comes to removing bald head shine, sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. 

If all else fails, there’s always our old trusty friend – the hat. 

Headwear not only offers shelter from the sun and protection from the elements, but it can also help absorb excess oil and cover up any unwanted shine. 

It’s like a stylish shield for your head! 

Plus, let’s not forget that a hat can be a stylish accessory that adds a touch of personality to your look.

So, whether you’re rocking a baseball cap or a wide-brimmed hat, don’t be afraid to embrace the power of headwear. After all, if it works as an anti-shine, it ain’t stupid!

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