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Why Does My Scalp Hurt? Tips for Bald Guys

Medical Disclaimer: Freebird provides general information, not medical advice. For any health or medical advice, consult a licensed healthcare professional

Ah, the joys of being bald! You thought shaving freed you from all your hair care woes, but your scalp can throw a tantrum and be downright painful.

If your scalp is feeling tender and sore, you're not alone. Many bald guys experience scalp pain and inflammation. The good news is, you can fix the problem once you understand what's causing it.

What are the Common Causes of Scalp Tenderness?

bald man with painful scalp

Scalp pain is an uncomfortable and distressing experience. Knowing the various causes can help you manage inflammation and feel better. Here are the usual reasons for scalp tenderness:

  • Sunburn
  • Alopecia Areata
  • Male Pattern Baldness
  • Telogen Effluvium
  • Scalp Irritation
  • Scalp Psoriasis

Sunburn

bald man out in the sun

Shaving your head makes you a prime target for sunburn. Without hair to shield your scalp, it can get scorched fast. A sunburned scalp feels sore, tight, itchy, and tender with flaking skin.

While mild sunburn heals on its own, you can treat scalp tenderness by applying these tips for scalp sunburn treatment.

Alopecia Areata

alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition known for patchy hair loss, but it can also bring along an unwelcome companion: a sore and tender scalp. Visible symptoms include round, oval patches, which are often inflamed. A study shows that 12 out of 49 people with alopecia areata had scalp pain or sensitive scalps.

If you have this, resist the urge to scratch, and consider over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams to reduce inflammation and itching. If the pain worsens, consult a dermatologist to rule out any underlying causes of scalp pain.

Male Pattern Baldness

man with male pattern baldness

When discussing male pattern baldness, you usually think of hair loss and not painful scalps. Generally, male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia isn't painful, but a study shows that 21% of men with pattern hair loss experience scalp pain.

As pattern hair loss progresses along the Norwood Hamilton scale, hair follicles shrink due to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). This causes inflammation around your hair follicles, which triggers scalp sensitivity and discomfort. Even light touches in one spot can feel uncomfortable.

If scalp pain worsens, seek advice from a healthcare professional to rule out other issues.

Telogen Effluvium

bald man stressed out

Telogen effluvium is stress, injury, or illness-related temporary hair loss that can also cause scalp pain. The same study mentioned for male pattern baldness and alopecia areata shows that 39% of patients with telogen effluvium also had painful, burning, or itchy scalps.

Irritation

bald man with scalp acne

Head shavers often experience scalp pain from razor burn, ingrown hairs, and scalp acne. Razor burn feels like a burning sensation after shaving, accompanied by a rash. This happens when you shave too fast, dry shave, use dull blades, shave against the grain, or have sensitive skin. Read our article on how to prevent razor burn to learn more.

Razor bumps or ingrown hairs are often mistaken for razor burn, but they aren't the same. Razor bumps appear when shaved hair goes back into the skin, causing inflamed, red, tender, and itchy bumps. We have a guide on preventing razor bumps that can help you if you have them.

For acne-prone head shavers, breakouts, cause scalp pain. To learn how to shave with scalp acne, click the link and read our article for more tips.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can turn your scalp into a red, flaky battlefield. Imagine your skin cells throwing a wild party where they multiply faster than rabbits. If you have an overactive immune system, your body tells cells to grow too quickly, leading to buildup accompanied by itching, burning, extreme dryness, and skin cracking.

A professional diagnosis and treatment help you manage scalp psoriasis effectively.

More Reasons for a Painful Scalp

Here are additional bald scalp pain causes:

  • Lice

  • Over brushing

  • Shingles

  • Cysts

  • Allergic reaction

  • Waxing

When you have an allergic reaction, take antihistamines if needed. For severe cases involving difficulty breathing, call emergency services right away.

Why is My Scalp Tender in One Spot?

Sometimes, you may find your scalp tender in one spot after touching or applying pressure. Don't worry, usually it isn't anything serious. But if you have persistent and worsening pain, get medical attention at once.

Trauma or Injury

bald man with head injury

Did you bump, cut, or scrape your head recently? A minor injury (bruise or bump) can make your scalp feel tender in one spot. Minor bumps, bruises, and cuts often heal on their own in a couple of days. If you notice any signs of infection, go to your medical professional at once

Traction Alopecia

man with tight ponytail

Wearing tight hats, tight hairdos, or helmets can cause localized scalp pain and hair loss (traction alopecia). Your headgear may have rough edges, bulky tags, or coarse seams that rub against your scalp and cause pain. Do you wear a headset for long periods? Wearing a plastic headset without padding can also give you a sore scalp.

Give your head a break. Avoid wearing anything on your sore scalp until it's healed.

Scalp Folliculitis

Scalp folliculitis is a skin condition caused by infected hair follicles.

Pus-filled blisters may appear on your scalp. Bumps are painful, tender, itchy, and have a burning sensation. A warm compress usually solves mild cases, but if the infection persists or gets worse, you'll need antibiotics.

Hair Pulling Disorder (Trichotillomania)

hair loss due to hair pulling

For those suffering from Trichotillomania, certain spots may feel painful. The best way to remove pain is to treat the disorder itself. You must go through cognitive behavioral therapy and lower stress and anxiety.

Tips for Managing Scalp Sensitivity and Pain on a Bald Head

Preventive daily scalp care is needed for bald scalps to stay comfortable and healthy. Here are some of the best bald scalp care tips you can apply for scalp pain and sensitivity.

Gentle Cleansing

bald man getting scalp cleansing

Don't skimp on quality products! Harsh chemicals in shampoos, cleansers, and conditioners can irritate sensitive scalps, so it's time to treat them right with gentle and hydrating options. Using gentle sulfate-free products with natural ingredients may help soothe and not aggravate irritating substances.

Moisturize

bald man applying moisturizer on scalp

How to soothe a tender scalp after shaving? Easy, by adding hydration to your routine. Moisturizing helps hydrate your dry, tight, and irritated scalp. It also soothes inflammation and helps reduce redness.

Pick a good moisturizer like Freebird's Refreshing Scalp Moisturizer, designed specifically for baldies. For more choices, you can check out the best moisturizers for baldies we've listed for you.

Use Sunscreen

When managing scalp tenderness, sunscreen is one of the unsung heroes in your grooming arsenal. Without hair, our scalps can be easily burned to a crisp. 

Believe me, you wouldn't want to feel like your head is on fire and look like a lobster. Being bald means applying sunscreen every time we go out. It protects our scalps from UV exposure, painful sunburn, and skin cancer!

Ditch the Tight Headgear: Let Your Scalp Breathe!

bald man removing motorcycle helmetTight hats and helmets can turn your scalp into a pressure cooker! They create pressure points that irritate and cause scalp pain. Your scalp deserves to breathe and not feel like it's in a vice grip.

When wearing hats or headgear, choose one made from breathable materials that reduce scalp discomfort and friction against your skin. Friction can worsen any existing tenderness and irritation.

Scalp Massage

man getting a scalp massage

Scalp pain may occur due to tension headaches, where you feel tightness around the head. An easy and relaxing solution is massaging your scalp. Who doesn't love a good massage? Massaging your scalp increases blood circulation and removes tension headaches, plus a study shows it increases hair thickness too!

Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure in circular motions across your scalp (5 to 10 minutes is enough). You can apply oil like coconut or jojoba to help moisturize your scalp if you have dry skin.

I get a weekly scalp massage that helps relieve scalp tenderness, discomfort, and tension headaches. These regular treatments for the scalp make me feel like a million bucks!

Stay Hydrated

bald man drinking water

Staying hydrated is key to a happy and healthy scalp. It keeps scalps moisturized, preventing dry, flaky scalps, which irritate and cause scalp tenderness, especially in cold weather.

Drink enough clean water daily and watch your scalp thrive!

When to see a Professional for Scalp Pain

If scalp tenderness persists, consult with a dermatologist for professional advice. Persistent or severe pain may indicate underlying conditions that need immediate attention.

The Bottom Line

Being bald has its perks, like never dealing with bad hair days. On the flip side, scalp tenderness may be a regular experience you have to face.

You can deal with scalp tenderness head-on by understanding the reasons for scalp pain and taking proactive steps.

Remember the basics of bald scalp care: 

  • Cleanse gently,

  • Apply sunscreen,

  • Moisturize,

  • Stay hydrated,

  • Ditch your tight headgear,

  • Get a scalp massage,

  • and listen to what your scalp is telling you.

Freebird has a complete scalp care kit you can try out. It includes a cleanser, moisturizer, and exfoliator designed for baldies. Get the kit for only $39.95.

Three scalp care products labeled exfoliator, cleanser, and moisturizer next to text and an orange Shop Now button.

FAQs

Can Stress Cause Scalp Pain?

Yes, it can. Stress can turn your body into a tense ball of anxiety, and your scalp is not immune! Tension headaches caused by stress can lead to discomfort. A quick fix? Get a scalp massage like we talked about earlier.

How Can I Treat My Tender Scalp at Home?

There are several home remedies that soothes a sensitive scalp! Try gentle shampoos and don't forget to moisturize! A little massage with natural oils can go a long way.

Why is My Scalp Sore and Tender to Touch?

Your scalp might feel sore for various reasons. This includes skin conditions like scalp psoriasis, pattern hair loss or stress. Other culprits include tight hairstyles, scalp trauma, sunburn, infections, and irritation from shaving.

Can a Bald Scalp Get Acne?

Yes, bald scalps can get acne. Oil, sweat, and clogged pores from shaving can cause breakouts. Using gentle cleansers and avoiding harsh products helps keep acne under control. Read our guide on how to shave with acne for more tips.

Is It Normal to Have Scalp Pain After Shaving?

A little scalp soreness after shaving is normal. Shaving too fast, dull blades, or dry shaving can cause irritation. Taking care with technique and blade quality will reduce discomfort.

How Often Should I Wash My Bald Scalp?

Washing your scalp 2 to 3 times a week works well for most people. Washing too often dries out the scalp and makes it tender. Use a gentle shampoo to keep your scalp clean without stripping moisture.

Why is the Top of My Head Tender?

The top of your head may be tender due to sunburn or injury. It can also be a pressure point from wearing a hat or headgear.

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 Electric head shaver, attachments, and shaving products beside Tools for Modern Headcare and Shop Now button.  Freebird headcare tools: electric shaver, attachments, shave gel, and lotion. Shop Now button on the left.

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