Sun Protection for Bald Men: Why SPF is Essential

We all love spending time in the sun, but your skin can suffer more than you might think. One of the most common effects of prolonged exposure to UV radiation is actinic keratosis — rough, scaly patches that develop as a result of sun damage. The good news? With the right sun protection, most of these problems can be prevented.

What Is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis refers to small, thickened or scaly patches that often appear on the face, ears, hands, or forearms — the areas most frequently exposed to sunlight. They develop after years of UV exposure. Although actinic keratosis is not skin cancer itself, it can progress into a squamous cell carcinoma. That’s why it’s important to take these spots seriously and have them treated if necessary.

Why Bald Men Are at Higher Risk

Hair naturally protects the scalp from UV exposure. But for bald men, the skin on the head is directly exposed to the sun. This makes sun damage to the scalp and actinic keratosis significantly more likely.

Yet the scalp is often overlooked when applying sunscreen or a day cream with SPF. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher not only prevents burning but also helps reduce premature ageing and pigmentation spots. This protection is crucial — even on cloudy days or during brief moments outdoors.

How to Prevent Sun Damage

• Apply sunscreen or day cream with SPF daily
  Use a day cream with SPF 30 or higher every day. Apply generously to your face, neck, ears, and especially the bald scalp. Reapply every two hours when spending extended time outdoors.
• Wear protective clothing
  A cap or hat helps shield the scalp from direct UV rays. UV-protective clothing can also help reduce the risk of sun damage.
• Avoid the strong midday sun
  The sun’s intensity peaks between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Try to stay in the shade or limit direct exposure during these hours.
• Check your skin regularly
  Watch for scaly or rough patches that don’t go away. Have them evaluated by a general practitioner or dermatologist so that actinic keratosis can be treated early if needed.

Treatment of Actinic Keratosis

Once actinic keratosis has developed, several treatments are available. A doctor may recommend:

• Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
• Special creams
• Photodynamic therapy (light therapy)

The choice depends on the severity and location of the lesions. Even after treatment, daily sun protection with SPF remains essential to prevent recurrence.

The Importance of Daily Skincare

Preventing sun damage is always better than treating it.
Men with bald heads should protect their scalp every day with sunscreen or a day cream with SPF — not only in summer but all year round. UV rays reach the skin even on cloudy days, during short walks, or through windows.

The Vitamin Booster Day Cream by BAKR & BERG offers the ideal combination of nourishment and protection: a lightweight, hydrating day cream with SPF that shields the skin from harmful UV radiation while deeply nourishing it.

Daily protection is the foundation of healthy skin — and a simple habit that makes a lasting difference.

Sources:
NHG (Dutch College of General Practitioners) – Guideline on Actinic Keratosis
Huidarts.nl – Information on Actinic Keratosis and Sun Damage
Huidziekten.nl – Patient Information on Actinic Keratosis