5 Trans Women On The Beauty Moments That Shaped Their Transitions – Refinery29

Kelly, 32

"I remember playing with makeup as a small child, but began wearing makeup in public at 15. I had bad acne in my teens, and it bothered me so much and hugely affected my confidence. I did some research and learned it was derived from hormonal issues. Once I started hormone replacement therapy, my acne condition improved with time and eventually cleared.

The first beauty product I was obsessed with was mascara. I always envied girls with long, beautiful lashes. I actually wore mascara to school before I transitioned but was told by my teacher to remove it. The next thing I experimented with was grooming my eyebrows. At 15, I began to make them into a more feminine arched shape. These two small experiences were the beginning of my beauty journey now the list of beauty products I love and use goes on forever.

I always wanted to have long hair, and I believe my hair is a big part of my femininity. A moment that really stands out was actually investing in a great curling iron. I was so excited the first time I used it, as Id never seen myself with curly hair before. I felt like me.

Most of my beauty looks have been a process of trial and error. Im mainly self-taught, but had a makeup lesson that covered the very basics of application. I will always remember the first time I wore a smoky eye look. That felt like a real turning point and the opportunity to have fun with makeup began.

I also started my Instagram page with a focus on beauty blogging, trying products, and experimenting with different looks as my own way to feel included in mainstream beauty media. Ive learned so much from social media, like being exposed to the latest beauty trends and new products on the market. Years ago I didnt know what highlighter or contouring was. I think Instagram has been a huge asset to the trans community to both connect and learn.

One of my favorite makeup looks to create is a cat eye with black winged liner. A good foundation is a great investment, too. No ones skin is naturally perfect. At the moment Im using Maybelline.

A brand I think is actively helping the LGBTQ community is Morphe. I feel they not only acknowledge the existence of LGBTQ people, but give us the same level of inclusion as cisgender people. Its been encouraging to see Morphe collaborate with people from the LGBTQ community. It may seem like a small thing, but it demonstrates to us that we are just as valued as everyone else. I personally would not support or buy products from a brand that discriminates against the LGBTQ community in any way.Tarte, Urban Decay, and Marc Jacobs are also doing great work to support the community, and that makes me want to support the brands in return. Marc Jacobs Beauty donated 10% of each of itsEnamored Dazzling Gloss Lip Lacquer Collectionsold last summer during Pride month to SAGE, an organization dedicated to providing advocacy, services, and support to older members of the LGBT community.

For such an affordable brand, Ive been impressed with Revolutions celebration of Pride and support for our cause, too.

To sisters out there who want to start their beauty journey, dont be afraid. Go out and buy your desired beauty products and try them out! Experiment, and understand it may take a while to get things right. Dont be afraid to ask for help from friends or at beauty counters. Book a makeup lesson. Go to beauty salons and the hairdresser's. Seek out professional advice on your skin type and the shape of your features. Little things like this make a huge difference. Eyeshadow application can be different, for example, if you have hooded or non-hooded eyes. Find out what hair length and style suits your face shape and think about the amount of time you want to spend getting ready each day, in terms of maintenance. Most importantly, do what makes you feel beautiful."

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5 Trans Women On The Beauty Moments That Shaped Their Transitions - Refinery29