Pros rely on this daily essential... understanding that every client walking through their door deserves to feel seen, respected, and absolutely fabulous. But when it comes to designing treatments for transgender or non-binary clients, many therapists suddenly feel like they're walking through a minefield in their favorite fuzzy slippers. Relax, take a deep breath of that lovely eucalyptus-scented air! Creating inclusive, affirming treatments isn't about political correctness—it's about exceptional client care that makes everyone feel like the royalty they are. Whether you're performing a gentle waxing service or a luxurious body treatment, the foundation is always the same: respect, knowledge, and the desire to make every person feel amazing in their skin.
Let's be real—the beauty and wellness industry hasn't always been the most welcoming space for gender-diverse individuals. From intake forms that force people into boxes they don't fit to treatment protocols that assume every client has the same hormonal profile or hair growth patterns, there are plenty of opportunities to accidentally make someone feel uncomfortable. But here's the good news: with some thoughtful adjustments and a commitment to learning, you can transform your practice into a sanctuary for all clients. And honestly? The transgender and non-binary community represents a massively underserved market—getting this right isn't just good karma, it's good business!
Communication First: The Art of the Inclusive Consultation
Before any treatment begins, the consultation sets the tone for everything. This is where you establish trust, gather important information, and show your client they're in safe, knowledgeable hands. Start with your intake forms—do they only have "male" and "female" options? Consider adding "non-binary," "transgender," "prefer to self-describe," or simply removing gender fields altogether when they're not medically necessary. For services where hormonal information matters (like certain skin or hair conditions), you might include optional questions about hormone therapies rather than assuming based on appearance.
During the verbal consultation, mirror the language your client uses. If they refer to their "facial hair" rather than "beard," follow their lead. Ask open-ended questions about their goals rather than making assumptions. "What results are you hoping to achieve today?" works better than "So you want this more feminine?" Remember that for many transgender clients, certain features might cause gender dysphoria—that discomfort or distress when one's body doesn't align with their gender identity. A skilled esthetician can help alleviate this through thoughtful treatments without ever making the client feel like there's something "wrong" with them.
Hormone Therapy and Skin: The Esthetician's Cheat Sheet
Many transgender individuals undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and these hormonal changes significantly impact skin and hair—which means your treatment approach might need adjustment. For transgender women taking estrogen, skin often becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive. They might be more prone to irritation from active ingredients or certain waxing techniques. Meanwhile, transgender men taking testosterone frequently experience increased oil production, thicker skin, and more robust hair growth—including new facial hair that might require different approaches to preventing ingrown hairs.
Non-binary individuals might use various hormone regimens or none at all, so never assume! The key is observing the skin in front of you and asking thoughtful questions. "Has your skin changed recently?" or "How does your skin typically react to treatments?" can yield more useful information than trying to guess someone's hormonal profile. Stock your treatment room with options for different skin types—from gentle sugar scrubs for sensitive skin to deeper salt scrubs for more resilient types.
Gender-Affirming Hair Removal: Beyond Basic Waxing
Hair removal represents one of the most sought-after services for transgender clients, but it's not one-size-fits-all. For transgender women, facial hair removal can be profoundly gender-affirming, but the hair is often thicker and more deeply rooted than cisgender women's facial hair. This calls for professional-grade equipment and techniques. Consider investing in a high-quality wax warmer that maintains consistent temperatures for effective removal of coarse hair. Stripless hard wax often works beautifully on facial areas as it grips the hair without sticking to the skin.
For larger body areas, soft strip wax can cover more surface area efficiently. Always have pre and post-waxing products on hand to minimize discomfort and prevent ingrowns—this is especially important for clients who may be dealing with hair growth patterns that cause them distress. For transgender men, chest and body hair might be a source of pride rather than something to remove—unless they're seeking shaping or neatening. The only way to know? Ask!
Don't forget about the power of positioning and language during hair removal services. Instead of "Okay, let's get you ready for your bikini wax," try "I'm going to remove hair from the Brazilian area—is there any specific shaping you'd prefer?" This neutral language allows clients to describe exactly what they want without assumptions about their gender or grooming preferences.
Facial Treatments That Affirm Rather Than Assume
Facial services offer incredible opportunities for gender affirmation when approached thoughtfully. For transgender women, treatments that promote smoother, more hydrated skin can be deeply validating. Consider incorporating hydrodermabrasion for gentle exfoliation and hydration, or facial steaming to prepare sensitive skin for extractions. Dermaplaning can provide that incredibly smooth canvas that many clients love while removing fine vellus hair.
For transgender men, facial treatments might focus on managing increased oil production or addressing skin texture changes. Microdermabrasion can help with texture issues, while advanced facial treatments targeting congestion might be beneficial. The key is customizing based on the skin's current needs rather than gender presentation.
And let's not forget the power of touch—facial massage can be incredibly affirming when performed with intention. Using a great facial massage cream and incorporating techniques that honor the client's bone structure without making assumptions can create a profoundly positive experience.
Body Treatments: Creating Comfort in Vulnerability
Body treatments require special consideration as clients are often in various states of undress, which can heighten feelings of vulnerability for transgender and non-binary individuals. Start with your draping techniques—ensure they provide modesty without being overly fussy. Have a variety of spa bedding options in different sizes and weights so clients can choose what feels most comfortable.
When performing body scrubs or wraps, use neutral language to describe areas of the body. Instead of "chest" you might say "upper torso," or instead of "hips and thighs" try "lower body." For clients who've had gender-affirming surgeries, be mindful of sensitive areas or scars—gentle pressure and avoiding direct friction on healing tissues is key. Products like paraffin wax can provide wonderful hydration for areas that might be particularly dry post-surgery.
Don't forget the power of temperature control in creating comfort. A towel steamer can provide that luxurious warm towel experience that helps clients relax, while having a body wrap heating blanket ensures they stay cozy throughout the treatment.
Nail and Brow Services: The Details That Define
Sometimes it's the smaller services that hold the most significance for gender expression. Brow shaping, for instance, can dramatically feminize or masculinize a face. Instead of assuming the shape a client wants, show them options and discuss their preferences. Have a great selection of brow lamination supplies and brow tinting products to offer various possibilities.
Nail services similarly offer opportunities for gender expression. Non-binary clients might appreciate being shown both gel polish options traditionally considered masculine and feminine, or something completely different like nail art designs that defy categorization. The goal is to provide options without assumptions—having a diverse range of nail polish colors and finishes ensures every client finds something that feels like them.
Building an Inclusive Environment Beyond the Treatment Room
Creating affirming treatments starts long before the client lies on your table. Take a look around your spa—do your restrooms accommodate all genders? Is your marketing imagery diverse? Do your team members use inclusive language naturally? Training is crucial—ensure every staff member from reception to senior therapist understands how to create welcoming experiences for gender-diverse clients.
Stock your retail area with products that serve diverse needs, from skincare lines suitable for various skin types to hair care products that don't assume gender. Consider carrying brands known for inclusivity or that specifically market to the LGBTQ+ community.
Most importantly, cultivate an environment where mistakes are learning opportunities rather than catastrophes. If you accidentally use the wrong pronoun, apologize briefly and move on—don't make a big production that further embarrasses your client. The goal is progress, not perfection.
The Business Case for Inclusive Treatments
Beyond being the right thing to do, creating gender-affirming treatments makes solid business sense. The LGBTQ+ community has significant purchasing power and fiercely loyalties to businesses that treat them with respect. Word travels fast in tight-knit communities—being known as a safe, knowledgeable space for transgender and non-binary clients can set you apart in a crowded market.
Plus, the skills you develop in serving gender-diverse clients—active listening, customization, trauma-informed care—will make you a better practitioner for every client who walks through your door. Investing in inclusive equipment and maintaining impeccable cleanliness benefits everyone.
Remember that creating truly inclusive treatments isn't about having all the answers immediately—it's about committing to learning, listening, and adapting. Start with small changes to your consultation process, educate yourself on the unique considerations for transgender and non-binary clients, and gradually build your service menu to be more inclusive. Your clients' comfort and confidence will be the best reward—though the glowing reviews and loyal clientele won't hurt either!
