Quick Links
When it comes to gender-affirming care, patients typically think of surgeries and hormone therapy first. However, there are several treatment options within dermatology that can be beneficial for transgender, non-binary, and gender minority patients. Whether you are seeking treatment for side effects like acne or wish to modify your appearance to better suit your gender identity, the Reserve Dermatology team and Dr. Liz Damstetter are here to help.
What is Gender Affirming Dermatology?
Gender affirming dermatological care can include several procedures that are intended to relieve gender dysphoria or treat skin concerns that are related to medical transition. These treatment options are available for transgender, non-binary, and gender minority patients.
Reviews
Gender Affirming Dermatology Treatment Options
When it comes to dermatology procedures, transgender, non-binary, and other gender minority patients can have unique needs. These may relate either to adjusting the appearance to relieve gender dysphoria and reflect your gender identity or to treating unwanted side effects of other treatments such as hormone therapy.
Injectables
Injectables, including both fillers and neuromodulators, can be used for gender affirmation purposes. For example, dermal fillers can be used to create a more traditionally feminine lip shape or to sculpt a more prominent and masculine-looking jawline. This can be a good option for patients who feel they are not ready for or interested in facial surgeries. Patients can also choose injectables for purely cosmetic purposes, such as reducing aging signs, while feeling comfortable with a dermatologist who regularly treats transgender patients and will respect their identity through treatment.
Acne Treatment
Hormone therapy can cause acne, especially for patients who take testosterone. A gender-affirming dermatologist like Dr. Damstetter can help treat acne and prevent future breakouts using a variety of treatment options.
Alopecia Treatment
Transgender patients who take testosterone may subsequently develop androgenetic alopecia, or “patterned” hair loss. Dermatologists are trained to treat hair loss to restore a healthy, youthful, and flattering hairline with fuller hair.
IPL
IPL has multiple uses within gender-affirming dermatology. It can be used to remove unwanted hair, which is beneficial for individuals who wish to remove facial hair or other body hair. It can also be used even the skin tone, which can be beneficial for patients who take estrogen and may face increased pigmentation and facial blood vessels.
Who is a Good Candidate for Gender Affirming Dermatology Treatment?
Patients can choose gender-affirming dermatology regardless of whether they have undergone other treatments related to their gender identity. It is a good option for transgender, non-binary, and other gender minority patients. In addition to cosmetic treatments, transgender and gender minority patients can put their trust in Reserve Dermatology and Dr. Damstetter for whatever dermatological concerns they may have. At Reserve Dermatology, the highest care is taken to respect all patient needs regardless of the procedure or concern that brings you to your appointment.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment for a gender-affirming treatment at Reserve Dermatology, call our Glenview, IL office or contact us online.
