Dermatologic Care of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community of India
September 2022
in “
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
”
Studysummary This study identified common dermatological issues and procedures among transgender individuals in India, highlighting insufficient access to dermatological services and distinct cosmetic concerns related to hormone and surgery changes during transition. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study surveyed 51 transgender individuals in India, with 94% being trans women, to identify their dermatological concerns. Common issues included facial hair, androgenetic alopecia, scars from gender-affirming surgeries, and skin damage from topical steroids. Laser hair removal was the most common dermatological procedure. Only 21.7% of participants had consulted a dermatologist, often due to fear of discrimination, surgical scars, or low income. Androgenetic alopecia was a significant issue, likely due to the impact of gender-affirming hormones. The study concluded that the transgender community in India has unique dermatological needs and faces barriers to accessing care. It suggests enhancing dermatology training programs and establishing transgender clinics to address these needs.
