TBH I don't think I have ever been mistaken for a pedo... maybe because I have always kept my distance from younger girls, knowing I had no chance to impress anyone below 30 with this hair.
However, I do remember that already at 18 did I understand there was something wrong with the impression people received from my age.
A buddy of mine and I visited in London a dorm where some younger friends of ours (girls) were staying during the summer, to learn English.
My friend (long hair, NW1) immediately found a girl to make out with.
Of course, I made only friends with some girls.
One, aged 17, asked me after a bit: "how old are you?"
"18."
"Christ... I was thinking this guy is 25"
Only months later did I realize it was the N2.5 at 18 that made me older... and still does.
No youth for the bald.