Can Aftershave Be Used on the Head? (Pros, Cons, and Recommendations)

There are plenty of reasons to take a razor to your hair. Sometimes it’s for convenience or maybe it’s for the look. Regardless of the reason that skill skin needs to be cared for long after the shave is over. 

Although the skin on the scalp is much different than the face, you can still use regular aftershave on it to soothe and protect after a shave as long as the scalp tolerates it well and there is no irritation. There are also aftershaves formulated specifically for the scalp and head shavers.

Read on to see some ways to care for your scalp after a shave.

Is it okay to use aftershave on your head after shaving?

First identify why you need an aftershave. Damage may require one treatment and protection may come from a different source.

Aftershave lotion, balms, and tonics are the best choices for the head after shaving. Avoid anything overly drying and be sure to test any new aftershave on a small section of your scalp before covering the entire thing to avoid potential irritation.

The contours of the head make shaving a bit of an adventure especially when you can’t always see where the razor is. Razor burn, bumps, and cuts are fairly common. Any irritation is going to stand out and could potentially cause the scalp to dehydrate and cause further problems.

A good aftershave balm or lotion will provide some treatment to common irritation. Its goal is to reduce irritation and redness while providing hydration to nourish the skin. 

Aftershave splashes and some witch hazel formulas can dry the skin making them poor choices for the scalp except when used as antiseptic on cuts and nicks. Consider a good sunscreen to prevent damage caused by the new exposure to UV. A sunburned scalp is indeed miserable.

Does aftershave stop hair growth?

It would be nice to have some extra time between shaves.

Aftershave does not inhibit hair growth. There are some formulas that claim to suppress hair growth but do so by weakening hair follicles. Others soften hair to make subsequent shaved easier.

Growth inhibitor aftershaves are designed to give a day or so more between shaves. 

Exercise caution with formulas that limit growth as the damage caused to the follicle can be permanent. 

What if you have an itchy scalp after shaving?

Always consult a dermatologist with persistent itching or irritation as you could suffer from a chronic dermatological condition requiring specialized treatment.

Identifying what is causing the itch is crucial to finding the remedy. Itching and drying could be a sign of dehydration, contact sensitivity (allergies), or razor burn. If you have an itchy scalp drink plenty of water, clean your scalp, and moisturize regularly.

Shaving can produce a number of conditions that lead to forms of irritation. The scalp is a playground for additional problems. Skullshaver.eu, a blog dedicated to a smooth dome, lists plenty of preventative measures to keep your scalp feeling right.

What can you use to moisturize your scalp?

Prevention is greater than treatment.

Shampoo is often formulated for the scalp as much as the hair. Make certain to wash your head with a scalp moisturizer. After your shave a hydrating aftershave is recommended. A number of oils will prevent the scalp from losing moisture.

Proper moisturizing begins with consuming an adequate supply of water which is often recommended to be at least 2 liters per day. As you make hydration a fundamental part of your routine you will notice the benefits in the coming weeks.

Clean your head with a scalp shampoo. Exfoliate the dead skin, grime, and oils that could block pores or make the skin appear unhealthy. Use a quality lotion to moisturize the scalp. Use a formula with some sunblock to prevent uv damage. Lotion and oils will also create a friction barrier when wearing a hat.

Is shaving your head good for your scalp?

There are several myths about hair removal promoting further growth. None of those myths are true.

There are few known benefits to shaving outside of aesthetic reasons. Shaving your head does not promote hair growth contrary to the myth.

Unless you are suffering from a severe dermatological issue or cast in the role of Ellen Ripley in Alien 3, there is no real benefit to the Mr. Clean look. 

Shaving will not stimulate the hair follicles to grow back thicker. The blunted stubble only appears to be thicker growth than that of hair that naturally tapers. If your hair has been severely damaged by dying or bleaching then shaving will remove the dead hair allowing for the natural hair to grow back which will also appear healthier. 

What is the best aftershave for your head?

While not as plentiful as aftershave splash for the face there are products available strictly for the skull. Focus on finding a hydrating formula with natural fragrance. Avoid synthetic perfumes and alcohol as they can cause drying or reaction. 

 Here are a couple suggestions for some bald scalp aftershaves.

Dōm Chrōm. 

Dōm Chrōm is specifically formulated for the bald head. It’s lauded for its ability to quickly reduce inflammation and hydrate. It also invigorates with a minty scent and feel.

Head Lube.

Head Lube pulls double duty as a lotion and aftershave. It is made with fragrance and not synthetic scents that can cause irritation. Tea tree oil and Shea butter will rejuvenate the scalp making it feel great. You can use Head Lube as an aftershave and a daily moisturizer.