Meet Zahra
Zahra's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Zahra (she/her) is a Black trans woman who faces significant challenges with her daily grooming routine. She currently shaves her face using a single blade safety razor to avoid ingrown hairs, a process that is both time-consuming and increasingly painful. "My skin sometimes feels like it’s burning after I shave," she shares, highlighting the physical discomfort she endures.
Financially, Zahra and her partner are burdened with outstanding medical bills. These include post-remission check-ups following her wife’s chemotherapy (2022-2023), inpatient mental health care for herself, and costs related to managing her HRT. Additionally, as new homeowners, they have discovered their house needs more work than anticipated, leading to significant credit card debt.
Zahra yearns to feel more confident and comfortable in her presentation. "I want to feel more confident and comfortable in my presentation and help others recognize that I am a woman," she expresses. Access to gender-affirming hair removal would alleviate the pain and time commitment of her current shaving routine, allowing her to present herself more authentically and comfortably. This support is crucial for Zahra's well-being and self-recognition, helping her navigate both her personal and financial challenges with greater ease.
Zahra's timeline
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Award Granted
April 5, 2024
Zahra was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
April 30, 2024
A payment has been made toward Zahra's permanent hair removal!
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Update
June 13, 2024
Zahra shared, "Laser hair removal allows me to take days off from shaving. Laser is helping me feel more comfortable wearing less or no makeup when I just need to run a quick errand or go for a walk in populated parks/trails."
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Zahra get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Zahra'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.