Meet MJ
MJ's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
MJ (she/her) is a trans woman working in retail and navigating the daily challenges of presenting as her true self. Although she previously underwent laser hair removal, much of the hair has grown back—particularly on her chin, neck, upper lip, lower lip, and sideburns. Now, she must shave every day, which not only causes discomfort but also intensifies her gender dysphoria.
“My facial hair creates dark shadows that completely unalign with how I want to present,” MJ shares. Being misgendered during face-to-face interactions at work takes a toll on her mental health and confidence. “It’s something I hate dealing with, and it weighs on me every day.”
Despite working hard, MJ earns minimum wage and lives alone, leaving little to no room in her budget for the gender-affirming care she needs. Receiving support for electrolysis would have a profound impact on her life, helping her feel more comfortable in her body, more confident in public, and more aligned with who she truly is.
MJ's timeline
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Award Granted
April 21, 2025
MJ was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like MJ get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for MJ's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.