Dermatologic Care of the Transgender Patient

The article from 2017 addressed the dermatologic needs of transgender individuals, focusing on the effects of hormone therapy and gender confirmation surgeries on skin and hair. It noted that estrogen in transgender women reduces sebum and body hair but does not eliminate facial hair, leading to the need for hair removal procedures. Testosterone in transgender men increases sebum production, potentially causing severe acne and male-pattern hair loss, with treatments including isotretinoin and topical minoxidil, while finasteride's use is controversial. The article also covered the dermatologic aspects of "top" and "bottom" surgeries, such as the need for preoperative hair removal and scar treatments. Noninvasive facial transformation procedures using neurotoxins and fillers were discussed, with a caution against nonmedical personnel performing these procedures. The importance of an inclusive and respectful dermatologic practice was emphasized, along with the need for dermatologists to manage complications from nonmedical procedures and to be cognizant of the higher rates of sexually transmitted infections among transgender women.