Just Trans* Things

[WhiteWolf]

US here. California.
I actually got some links from another girl at work. And apparently California is Informed Consent so apparently I can start hormone treatments.... I guess whenever I want? A friend recommended finding a therapist though, to sort out my thoughts.

[Blackjack]

You definitely seem like you have a lot to think about. If I were in your position I'd go see one, too. Helping you unravel your own brain knots is exactly what they're good at, after all.

Find one who specialises, or at least as a lot of experience, with transhealthcare. Everyones experience is different, but I garauntee a therapist has seen someone similar to you before and can help you out.

I wish you luck in figuring the puzzle of yourself out. Remember, it doesn't matter where you end up, just that you're happy when you get there.

[Darktyger]

But then, is my enjoyment of my voice, my beard, is that just my Ego trying to keep me safe? What about the fact I literally started looking into beard grooming supplies, to try and make myself... presentable?
I'm so confused. T.T

for me, my beard was more a safety thing. Or as one trans girl I know put it, it was a "denial beard". I had the beard oil, balm, brush, trimmer, etc. But I only -actually- liked it if it was short, perfectly trimmed, and soft. And even then, it was more to "hide my chin". Once I embraced my identity and shaved it off....I really don't like it anymore. Today's ( 8/20/21 ) comic hits me hard. Since embracing my identity, the slightest shadow between shaves -really- bothers me. I started shaving my chest and any peachfuzz there irritates me.

This may not be the case with you, though. Just giving my experience.

[werefrog]

Question regarding facial hair for those who went male->female transition:

Does the hormone treatment affect the rate at which facial hair grows or how thick, or is it a separate process to prevent it from growing?

Serious question here, but don't feel like doing a lot of internet searching to find the answer.

[Blackjack]

HRT doesn't really affect your current facial hair, it might make it lighter but that's about it.
Testosterone activates facial hair follicles to start them growing, but once activated they don't need further testosterone to keep going. So HRT will stop new facial hair from growing, but won't change your current ones.

This is why a lot of transwomen use laser removal or electrolysis for a more permanent solution to facial hair.

[Rorschach]

Testosterone activates facial hair follicles to start them growing, but once activated they don't need further testosterone to keep going.

Does it work on your head? Asking for a friend.

[Blackjack]

Technically yes.

Mileage varies a lot, but essentially HRT stops the conversion of testosterone to DHT (which is what causes male pattern baldness). So with enough time you can get some serious regrowth, but it's kinda genetic lottery.

I'm still rolling the dice on mine xD