Indonesian Actor Rey Mbayang Shaves Head After Revealing Autoimmune Diagnosis
Indonesian actor and singer Rey Mbayang has opened up about his health struggles after debuting a dramatic new look at a high-profile wedding over the weekend. The 34-year-old star, best known for his roles in Indonesian films and his marriage to actress Dinda Hauw, revealed he recently shaved his head after being diagnosed with autoimmune psoriasis—a chronic condition causing severe skin inflammation and hair loss.
Mbayang’s striking transformation was first spotted at the April 26 wedding of fellow celebrities El Rumi and Syifa Hadju in Jakarta. Instead of his usual styled hair, the actor arrived with a nearly bald head, sparking immediate speculation among fans and media. Just days later, he took to Instagram to explain the sudden change, sharing his diagnosis and the physical toll it has taken.
“So the reason I shaved my head is since I have this illness, ‘Autoimmune’ psoriasis.”
— Rey Mbayang, via Instagram Stories
In a series of candid posts, Mbayang detailed how the condition has affected him over the past four months, describing painful symptoms that extended beyond his skin. “I’ve started feeling really uncomfortable in my bones, too, and I’ve entered a phase of severe hair loss,” he wrote. The actor admitted the decision to go bald wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was a practical step to simplify his treatment and reduce stress. “I decided to shave it all off to craft it easier to manage the condition and to keep things simple. No more stressing over my hair.”
Understanding Autoimmune Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that accelerates the growth of skin cells, leading to thick, scaly patches that can be itchy, painful, and prone to cracking. While the condition commonly affects the skin, it can also cause inflammation in joints and other parts of the body. Mbayang’s case appears to have triggered significant hair loss, a symptom that, while not universal, can occur in severe instances of scalp psoriasis.
In his Instagram posts, the actor shared photos of his scalp covered in red, flaky patches—visible evidence of the condition’s impact. He also documented the moment he picked up clippers to shave his head, a move that drew both support and concern from fans. Many took to social media to praise his transparency, with some calling the look “bold” and “empowering,” while others expressed sympathy for his health battle.
A Shift in the Spotlight
Mbayang’s decision to go public with his diagnosis comes at a time when conversations about health and self-image are increasingly visible in Indonesian entertainment. The actor, who rose to fame through roles in films like Bidadari Surga and his marriage to Dinda Hauw in 2021, has long been a fixture in the country’s celebrity scene. His willingness to discuss his condition—and the physical changes it has brought—adds to a growing trend of public figures using their platforms to destigmatize chronic illnesses.
For now, Mbayang says he’s focusing on treatment and recovery. “I’m just trying to take care of myself,” he wrote, urging fans to prioritize their health. As for his new look? The actor seems to be embracing it. In one post, he joked about the results of his DIY haircut, calling it “a little shocking” but ultimately freeing.
While Mbayang hasn’t shared details about his treatment plan, his openness about the challenges of living with psoriasis has already resonated with many. For an industry often fixated on appearances, his story serves as a reminder that health—visible or not—always comes first.
