If you’re a crossdresser or transgender woman, then you know how important it is to remove facial hair.
A beard shadow (or any kind of facial hair) can detract from a feminine look, while a smooth, hair-free face can be a real confidence booster.
Fortunately, there are many ways to remove or reduce beard hair. In this blog post, I’ll share 8 MTF hair removal and reduction methods so you can choose the best options for you.
MTF Facial Hair Removal Methods
Let’s start by talking about the most popular MTF facial hair removal methods. These differ a lot in terms of pain level, duration of results, and their suitability for crossdressers and transgender women.
Shaving
Shaving is the fastest and easiest way to remove facial hair. One of the biggest advantages of shaving is that it’s a painless method of hair removal.
However, it’s a temporary solution and hair can grow back quickly, often resulting in stubble or visible beard shadow.
Shaving can also cause skin irritation and razor burn, especially if not done carefully, and it can lead to ingrown hairs.
To learn how to achieve better results from shaving with the right after shave and skincare routine, check out my post on The Ultimate MTF Skincare Routine: Top 5 Steps for Trans Women and Crossdressers.
Laser hair removal
If you’re after longer lasting results, laser hair removal could be an option worth considering. This method of MTF facial hair removal can reduce or remove hair for many years, although it’s not 100% permanent.
Laser hair removal works by using a laser to target and destroy hair follicles, preventing future hair growth.
The procedure is generally painless, although some areas of the face, like the upper lip, can be more sensitive to the treatment.
It’s important to keep in mind that laser hair removal can be expensive, and multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve your desired results.
Additionally, it tends to work best for people with lighter skin tones and darker hair, and may not be the best option for those with darker skin or light or gray hair.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is the only hair removal method that can permanently remove hair for all skin and hair colors.
During electrolysis, a tiny probe is inserted into the hair follicles to electrocute the follicle. The process takes time as every hair strand needs to be treated separately.
Additionally, each follicle requires multiple treatments, so you’ll need to schedule appointments every couple of weeks for years.
A licensed electrologist typically charges between $70 and $100 per hour. The entire process can take anywhere from 70 to 300 hours and can cost thousands of dollars.
Thankfully, the process is performed only once in a lifetime. Once the hair is gone, it will never grow back.
Waxing
Waxing is a common facial hair removal method that involves applying hot wax to the skin and then removing it quickly to pull out the hair.
While it’s a popular hair removal option for women, facial waxing is not recommended for crossdressers or transgender women who have coarse beard hair.
Because beard hair is thicker and denser, waxing would be extremely painful and could even damage the skin.
Additionally, beard hair can grow in multiple directions, which increases the risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritation.
Bottom line: Don’t do it!
Epilator
An epilator is a handheld device used for hair removal that pulls hair out by the roots. The device has a rotating head with multiple small discs or tweezers that pluck hair from the skin.
Similar to waxing, I don’t recommend using an epilator to remove beard hair. Beard hair is just too coarse to be plucked safely or comfortably.
Depilatory hair removal cream
Depilatory creams are topical products designed to dissolve hair at the skin’s surface, providing a quick and easy method of hair removal.
The process involves applying the cream to the desired area and allowing it to sit for a few minutes before wiping away with a cloth.
While depilatory creams are generally safe and effective, they can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some people. Additionally, the results are temporary and hair will regrow within a few days.
If you decide to try this method, use a product such as SoftSheen-Carson Magic Razorless Shaving Cream, which is specially formulated for male beards. Do not use hair removal creams for the body on your face.
MTF Facial Hair Reduction Methods
Next, let’s discuss MTF facial hair reduction methods that can slow down or minimize hair growth. When combined with the hair removal techniques above, these can help you achieve more long-lasting results.
Hair inhibitor cream
Hair inhibitor creams, such as VANIQA and over-the-counter options, are topical products designed to slow down hair growth.
These creams work by blocking an enzyme in the hair follicle responsible for hair growth, effectively reducing the frequency and thickness of hair regrowth.
VANIQA, a prescription cream, is specifically designed for use on the face and neck and has been shown to reduce hair growth by up to 58% after 24 weeks of use.
Over-the-counter hair inhibitor creams are also available. Although the results aren’t as dramatic as prescription options, they can help slow hair regrowth when used consistently.
Transgender hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
While not a hair removal method itself, transgender hormone therapy can play a role in reducing facial hair growth.
Transgender hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking estrogen and antiandrogen medications to suppress testosterone production and increase estrogen levels.
Testosterone is responsible for promoting hair growth, particularly in the beard and mustache area. By reducing the amount of testosterone in the body, HRT can slow down facial hair growth.
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are many MTF facial hair removal and reduction options to choose from.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What are YOUR favorite techniques to remove or reduce facial hair? Please take my poll and share your comments below!
Love,
Lucille
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P.S. If you liked this article, you will love my FREE Male to Female Makeup Mini Course.
I do not like hair i wish there was an easy solution to permanently removing it.
I’ve have used nair removal creams but you got to put the rite amount on the first time ..too much and your skin starts burning and not enough is a waste cause it don’t work. Razors are to expensive these days and my facial hair don’t take long before i start feeling stubs. I think i need to take female hormones would be my best way to reduce the growth. How expensive is it and how often would i have to take them if I decide to go that way.
It depends on whether you have insurance, how much your insurance covers, and other things! Are you in the US?
I have taken eight photo depilation sessions during the year. Currently, I shave once a week to keep my face nice and smooth. I have to do two or three more sessions, then I should shave maybe once a month. And after that once a year photo depilation to maintain the situation.
I prefer electric shaver with external rechargeable batteries. But I know I need Electrolysis! I may not be as limber when I get to old age or older cause of my kyphosis. So therefore I can’t shave like I do now when I’m older. With facial hair and body hair telling you I’m not a woman. It has to go away for good hun.