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How much time to tan a newly bald head?
So, how long does it usually take for a freshly shaved head to develop a bit of color and blend into the face and neck?
Obviously it is important to take precautions against the sun with sunscreen, hats, scarves, etc. No one wants to burn. But, for a fair to average complexioned lady like myself, how long can I expect it will take to develop some evenness of color?
I am exploring the option of shaving. I value any advice you have for integrating the virgin skin of the scalp into the overall head/face/neck coloring?
Thanks!
Obviously it is important to take precautions against the sun with sunscreen, hats, scarves, etc. No one wants to burn. But, for a fair to average complexioned lady like myself, how long can I expect it will take to develop some evenness of color?
I am exploring the option of shaving. I value any advice you have for integrating the virgin skin of the scalp into the overall head/face/neck coloring?
Thanks!
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Mary on -
Great question! Even though I have VERY pale skin and had always shielded my face from the sun, I had a very definite "tan line" along my temples and forehead, and my bald scalp was REALLY white. My husband was really supportive of my shaving and going out bald, but his only request was that I even up the color.
Here's what I did. I had a hat made by San Diego Hat Company - it's called "Sunset", and it's basically a visor that goes all the way around your head. Here's a link with a picture:
http://www.sandiegohat.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=92
I rolled the top down so even more of my head was exposed, then adjusted the velcro tab (it's completely adjustable as to size) inside so that I was exposing exactly the area I wanted to tan - pretty much where my tan line was. I put on some 15 sunscreen, and went out in our backyard every day for only a few minutes. I rotated my sitting position so I was getting sun on all sides. I was careful not to overdo it and go very slowly. It worked like a charm. Looked a little silly...like a big egg sticking out of the hat top, but no one could see me. It IS virgin territory and you have to be careful.
This way, I was protecting my face and neck, as I've always done, but in very little time, I began to see that tan line fade as the exposed area tanned slowly. As you can see in my photos, I've got a pretty even color now...still pale, but definitely some color and no line.
I have an important rule for maintaining this! I NEVER go out in the sun wearing a scarf or turban or anything on my head (I don't wear wigs) - even for a moment. To do that would start building a tan line again. If I have to be out in the sun for an extended period, I always wear a sun hat that covers my head and face. But, for any short sun exposure, such as a walk to the mailbox, or to go in and out of a store, or driving in the car, I'm always bald. I put 15spf all over my head every morning, and higher spf if I'm going to be out and about. Those little moments of sun I get on my head going in and out of stores or in the car help maintain nice all-over color.
I hope this helps!
Mary
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Permalink Reply by JeffreySF on -
Wow Mary! I had no idea you had it so well planned out.
Funny thing....In my case I went to a resort in Cancun for a week and slathered on sunscreen and drank by the pool. By the flight home I had an even tan.
Jeffrey
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Permalink Reply by Mary on
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It wasn't a plan...it was just ingenuity. I'm too sun-phobic to do what you did. ( ;-)
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