Not Just Cosmetic: Dermatologic Procedures as Gender-Affirming Care
Botox, fillers, microneedling—these are often labeled “cosmetic,” but for many transgender patients, they serve a far deeper purpose. This article in the July issue sheds light on the real motivations behind dermatologic procedure-seeking in the transgender community, challenging the traditional lens through which these interventions are viewed.
In a national survey of over 2,200 participants, 138 transgender individuals reported receiving dermatologic procedures. An overwhelming 82% cited gender dysphoria as a motivating factor, with many pointing to procedures as vital components of gender-affirming care. Transgender men were more likely than transgender women to pursue treatment due to dysphoria, with masculine ideals such as muscularity influencing their choices. For transgender women, ideals like thinness and youthfulness were more frequently endorsed.
This research underscores a critical point: dermatologic procedures in transgender populations are often about far more than aesthetics. They intersect with mental health, identity, and social acceptance. For many, these treatments are part of a broader, life-affirming journey, one shaped not just by internal experience, but also by the weight of societal beauty standards.
As demand for gender-affirming dermatologic care grows, dermatologists must be prepared to approach these procedures with empathy, nuance, and a broader understanding of their therapeutic potential.
Are you framing your treatment plans through the right lens?
