Baldness isn’t always seen as a bad thing. Many men proudly sport a bald scalp, sometimes by choice. But when it comes to bald men being at risk for skin cancer, that’s a different story. It’s not about how bald men look, but about their skin health.
Is Skin Cancer More Common in Balding Men?
Yes, according to statistics, it’s highly likely. Studies show that bald men have a higher rate of actinic keratosis, a pre-malignant lesion that looks like a crusty scab. Sometimes, one of these thick crusts on the scalp can turn into squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin cancer. Thankfully, it’s not melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, but it’s still serious.
So, how can you detect actinic keratosis if you’re a balding man?
These lesions appear pinkish and feel a bit rough compared to healthy skin. They usually show up in men aged 50-60, but since your scalp is more exposed to the sun, they might appear earlier. If you spot one of these lesions on your scalp, see a dermatologist to check if it’s actinic keratosis. There’s a 6-10% chance of it turning into skin cancer, and while that may seem small, it’s better to catch it early.
What Can You Do About It?
If you’re worried about baldness and skin cancer, talk to your dermatologist. They can examine your scalp and skin for any lesions, some of which might be small and hard to spot.
If actinic keratosis is detected, you’ll have various treatment options, such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical creams.
It’s also crucial to use sun protection on your head, especially your scalp. Use non-greasy sprayed sunscreen to avoid burns, and whenever possible, wear a sunhat, particularly during summer and peak sunlight hours.
Don’t forget to cover or apply sunscreen to your ears. Men are more at risk of skin cancer on the ears compared to women, so make sure to protect them too.
Conclusion
Bald men are at a higher risk for certain types of skin cancer, so it’s important to take precautions. Regular dermatologist visits, using sun protection, and being aware of any changes in your skin can help you stay ahead of any potential issues.
References: Li, W. Q., Cho, E., Han, J., Weinstock, M. A., & Qureshi, A. A. (2016). Male pattern baldness and risk of incident skin cancer in a cohort of men. International Journal of Cancer, 139(12), 2671-2678.