5 Hair Tips for Transgender Women: A MTF Hair Guide
Guest writer Rhyannon Styles shares her hair hacks exclusively for All Things Hair. The LGBTQI+ is a role model and the author of "The New Girl: A Trans Girl Tells It Like It Is," a memoir documenting her transition from male to female. Styles is a self-confessed hair addict and wants to help anyone to maintain a glorious mane!
Hair is an integral part of who we are. As a transgender woman, my hair is an important signifier of my femininity. It’s been one of the key factors when transitioning that allows society (largely other people) to recognize that I identify as a woman. More importantly, my hair has allowed me to shape and realize my female self gradually and playfully. You see, I’ve always thought of my hair as an extension of my personality—colorful, sassy, and well-maintained. Not to mention, if I’m winning and having a fabulous hair day, I feel invincible. Check out some hair tips for MTF hairstyles and trans haircuts to inspire your self expression.
Hair Tips for MTF Hairstyles
It’s been 7 years since I began my transition, and during that time, my hair has taken quite the beating while working towards my ideal style. I’ve pushed my hair to its limits (and then some). I’ve experimented with colors, length, layers, and fringes—I even had a weave.
Full disclosure: A lot of time goes into maintaining fabulous hair. This was one of the first things I realized when I began my transition and something that I wasn’t prepared for regarding MTF hairstyles. In much the same way as replenishing my wardrobe with female clothes, I also had to figure out a new hairstyle and routine that suited my burgeoning female identity. Whether you’re trans or not, I want to share several hair hacks, including some trade tricks, because I believe everyone has the potential for fabulous hair.
1. Get a Fringe
For some transgender women, a receding hairline and enlarged brow bones can indicate masculinity and something you might want to hide. If you can’t afford or don’t want to opt for facial surgery, I have a solution —get a fringe!
I can honestly say I’ve never regretted my decision, and I would encourage anyone to switch up their style by cutting in a fringe—they’re so versatile, and there are shapes and styles for everyone. Now I switch between curly and straight and use strong hairspray to keep it in place.
Product recommendation: TRESemmé Extra Hold Hair Spray
This ultra-fine, fast-drying hairspray helps keep your fringe in place. It also smells like coconut, so you’ll look and smell fantastic.
2. Embrace Your Hair Texture
If you have wavy or curly hair like me, you’ll know the upkeep required to maintain this style. If I feel like my curls lack bounce or are lying flat from sleeping, I’ll spritz them with a leave-in conditioner in the mornings, preferably one which contains coconut or argan oil. This ensures the curls stay hydrated, which encourages bounce and shine!
Product recommendation: Love Beauty and Planet Smooth and Serene Argan Oil & Lavender Leave-In Smoothie Cream
Love Beauty and Planet
Love Beauty and Planet Smooth and Serene Argan Oil & Lavender Leave-In Smoothie Cream
Use this leave-in to control frizz and define your curls. Just apply to damp hair and leave your hair to air dry. It’s as easy as that.
3. Find a Color That Complements You
Sometimes I find myself scrolling through Instagram, seeing a picture of a girl with amazing violet hair and thinking, ‘Wow—I need that hair!” I’ve tried and failed several times to embrace a pastel hue; cooler colors don’t compliment my skin tone or hazel eyes.
For the past few years, I’ve consistently stayed copper, occasionally adding honey-blonde highlights to lift the brightness—it’s punchy, unusual, and much easier to maintain. To make sure I keep that glorious vibrancy, I use products formulated especially for colored hair.
Product recommendation: Nexxus Color Assure Long Lasting Vibrancy Cleansing Conditioner
This cleanser gently cleans while retaining moisture and helps you keep your color vibrant for up to 12 weeks.
4. Hydration Is Key
I dramatically over-processed my hair in a bid to become platinum blonde, and with that came breakage and dryness. I realized that, much like applying moisturizer to my body every day, my hair also needs the same TLC.
My top tip for MTF hairstyles is to apply a hydrating mask twice a month (or more if you have time) to ensure the mid-lengths and ends stay shiny and healthy-looking.
Product recommendation: SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
SheaMoisture
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
This mask is an intense treatment for damaged hair, deeply penetrating the fibers for a smoother finish. Just leave the mask on clean hair for 3-5 minutes before rinsing for a bit of TLC.
5. Switch up Your Pillowcase
This hack has halved my morning routine! I’d heard that swapping your cotton pillowcase for silk was much better for your hair. My solution was to buy a couple of cheap satin blouses and cover my pillow with them.
The result means my hair has less breakage and is easy to manage in the mornings. Now, all I need to do is gather my hair, give it a quick blast of dry shampoo around the crown, and I’m good to go!
Product recommendation: Dove Care Between Washes Clarifying Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo can be a life (or should we say hair?) saver. Give your hair lots of volume and bounce with this 100% vegan citrusy dry shampoo.
