Photo: Courtesy

Who said men are the only ones who can rock bald hair? We live in a world where long hair is coveted and it takes a fearless woman to go bald. Many women have foregone the salon for the barbershop nowadays. While for some it could be because of sickness such as cancer, others are just following a trend for the fun of it. Those who give their scalps a rest realise that less is definitely more!

A woman who is bald screams confidence and self-acceptance. There are many inspirational, beautiful black women who dared to answer the call of the bald including international model Alek Wek, Lupita Nyongo, Kawira of Papa Shirandula, musician STL, and Ajuma Naisenya, among others.

Here is how to rock bald

Maintain confidence: When bald, always smile, stand up straight, and be proud of who you are. When you are confident, you are telling people that you matter and they need to accept that.

Find things you like about yourself:

Look in the mirror and find other things you like about yourself. It could be your beautiful eyes or the shape of your face. Beauty is not just about hair.

Make-up:

Keep your make-up simple and just stick to the basics.

Highlight feminine features:

 Wear girly clothes because some women may feel they look boyish without their hair. Clothes that accentuate your figure will do you great service.

Earrings:

Wear big and bold earrings. Those who don’t want big fancy earrings, can emphasize their ears by, for instance, wearing a diamond stud in each ear and several smaller ones in the other ear.

Caring for your shaved head

Shampoo and conditioner:

The tiny hairs on your head may be invisible, but they still need some TLC. Oils and dirt can build up on a bald scalp so use shampoo when you shower then follow with a moisturizing conditioner to keep flakes away. Strictly stick with products made for hair and never use ordinary bathing soap.

Avoid the sun:

Bald and burnt is not fun. When your scalp has hair, it stays warm and protected. When bald, you have less insulation. Always apply sunscreen or wear a hat when the sun is out.

Stay hydrated:

 If your head gets too much sun exposure, the scalp can become dry and rough. Drink plenty of water and use a sensitive-skin moisturizer on your head to stay hydrated.

Scalp massage:

 Stimulating the scalp through massage promotes good blood flow and encourages healthy hair growth. Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure on your scalp. Work from your forehead, to the crown of your head, and down to the neck.

Even as you rock the bald look, have courage that not all women look good with very long hair. Be prepared too, for the mean people who will make fun of the way you look.