Redefining Baldness: The Rise of r/bald
In a groundbreaking article by Cat Zhang, The Cut declared that baldness is now considered “cool.” Zhang emphasized that while investing heavily in hair restoration has become a norm, a cultural shift has emerged, boldly proclaiming, “Fuck it, we bald.”
The Journey Toward Acceptance
Despite this cultural shift, many individuals still seek hair restoration treatments, such as trips to Turkey for hair implants or using growth-promoting pills. However, in 2026, a group of individuals decided to confront the stigma surrounding baldness head-on. Initiated on Reddit, one of the internet‘s largest forums, a humorous challenge transformed into a sociocultural movement.
The challenge was straightforward: participants would visit a specific subreddit dedicated to hair loss and openly admit to being bald, accompanied by photos free from any covering or artifice. This initiative began with a man who grew tired of shaving his head and has since blossomed into a community where approximately 1.5 million members share their experiences. The subreddit operates under a clear mission: “Welcome to r/bald! Our philosophy is simple: embrace bald and strive to make the world a more bald-friendly place.”
Creating a Supportive Community
This movement also attracts women undergoing chemotherapy and individuals of all ages confronting thinning hair. By normalizing baldness, r/bald provides a supportive space for those seeking to redefine societal perceptions that have endured since ancient Egypt.
Baldness in Media: A Historical Perspective
Traditionally, media portrayals depict heroes with thick hair, symbolizing fertility and strength, while villains often appear bald. As anthropologist Adrià Pujol notes, “Classic comic book villains like Kingpin and Lex Luthor were bald, and even in films like 300, the bad guys have no hair.” Despite the presence of notable bald figures like Bruce Willis and Dwayne Johnson attempting to shift this narrative, societal acceptance of bald heroes remains in flux.
The Growth of r/bald
Although r/bald was created in 2011, it experienced a significant surge in popularity at the end of 2025, following an article from Fast Company highlighting the subreddit as a haven for positivity amid the chaos of social media. This space prioritizes kindness and laughter, allowing individuals to express themselves without feeling marginalized.
The Power of Humor
Pujol further emphasizes that throughout history, individuals facing disadvantages—such as baldness—often use humor as a coping mechanism. “Since the Middle Ages, the fat man, the short man, and the bald man have dealt with disadvantages via the intelligent tactic of having a sense of humor.” Acceptance through humor reflects societal progress, even as the journey toward complete acceptance continues.
