Meet Nina
Nina's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Nina (she/her) is a Latinx trans woman who has long dreamed of removing her facial hair — something she’s wanted since her teenage years. During the pandemic, she found unexpected comfort in wearing a mask, as it allowed her to hide the dark beard hairs that trigger her dysphoria. “It was the happiest I’d felt,” she shares.
Nina lost her job when federal funding was cut from her department, and she’s still struggling to find stable work. To stay afloat, she takes on odd jobs, cuts back on daycare for her child, and navigates the lingering impacts of domestic abuse. “Some days, I barely get by,” she says. “And when I look in the mirror, I feel a mix of emotions I’m still learning to meet with kindness and grace. For myself, and for the journey I’m on.”
Despite it all, Nina stays grounded by her love for her child. “The only thing that keeps me going is seeing my toddler grow and giving him the happiest childhood I possibly can.” Receiving gender-affirming hair removal would be a huge weight lifted—bringing her one step closer to feeling at home in her body, and more like herself again.
Nina's timeline
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Award Granted
April 18, 2025
Nina was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,375 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Nina get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Nina'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.