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• Niet-medical tips
• (Para)medical tips

Niet-medical tips

Many trans men would like to undergo medical treatment but face years-long waiting lists at gender clinics. Other trans men do not want or are unable to pursue medical transition. For some trans men (particularly non-binary people), a social transition and/or legal gender recognition is sufficient. In other cases, medical treatment is desired but is physically, mentally, or socially too demanding. Other trans men are non-binary or genderfluid and choose only certain aspects of medical transition—for example, chest surgery but no hormones, or hormones but no surgery. (Almost) anything is possible!

Fortunately, there is a lot you can do without medical interventions to make your appearance better reflect who you are on the inside. Below are some of the most important practical tips.

Movement and Behaviour

The way you speak, move, and behave has a major influence on how others perceive you. By becoming aware of this and using it intentionally, you can have more influence over how people see and interact with you—even if your body does not (yet) look the way others might expect based on your gender identity. » More about movement and behaviour

Binders

Binders are elastic compression garments that flatten the chest to create a more masculine appearance. Because the material is breathable and stretchy, the risk of skin damage is minimal. Binders are available in different sizes, lengths, styles, and colours. Some also have closures, making them easier to put on and take off. There is also elastic binding tape that can be used to flatten the chest. » More about binders

Glasses

Glasses are an accessory that many people may not immediately think of. However, they can have a significant impact on your appearance, even if you do not need prescription lenses. There are frames marketed for men, women, and gender-neutral styles. Many opticians regularly offer discounts, allowing you to buy one or even several pairs of glasses at a relatively low cost.

Packers

With most clothing, a packer is not visible to others. However, it can make a significant difference to your confidence and body image. Packers are available in a wide range of colours, sizes, and materials—from light pink to dark brown, and from very soft to firmer options. There are also different types available: basic packers, stand-to-pee (STP) devices, and prostheses designed for sexual activity. Some products combine two or even all three functions.

Facial hair

Create your own moustache or beard! With crepe wool and theatrical adhesive from a costume shop (or even your own hair), you can easily make a moustache, goatee, or stubble. With a little practice, the result can look surprisingly realistic. » More about facial hair

Hairstyle

You could ask your hairdresser for a boys’ or men’s haircut. If that still feels like too big of a step, there are also many gender-neutral hairstyles to choose from. Some hairdressers may be surprised at first, but most are happy to help you find a suitable style.

Practical tip: many people find that barbers are often more willing to listen to what they want than women’s hairdressers.

Clothing

Clothes make the man! Choosing your clothing carefully can make a remarkable difference. Shop in the men’s department. Some trouser brands create the illusion of narrower hips, while the right sweaters or shirts can make your shoulders appear broader. If you like, ask for advice from a salesperson at a menswear store.

Standing to pee

Being able to urinate standing up is an important goal for many trans men. It is also especially practical when travelling or attending festivals. Nowadays, a variety of devices are available that make this possible. There are also highly realistic penile prostheses designed for standing urination.

Voice

One obvious difference between men and women is voice pitch. However, our voices involve much more than pitch alone. Men and women often differ in intonation, word choice, speech patterns, and more. For some trans men, a masculine voice comes naturally; for others, it does not. Gender-affirming voice techniques can be very helpful, and a speech and language therapist with expertise in gender-affirming voice care can provide support. » More about voice

Cheek fullers

Men generally have a more angular face than women. If you have a very feminine or round face, you can make it appear slightly more angular using strips of orthodontic wax. Two strips approximately 1.5–2 cm long and 0.5 cm wide are sufficient. Place them inside your mouth, against the outside of your lower jaw, and voilà!

Eyebrows

Men generally have thicker, darker, and straighter eyebrows than women. Consider making your eyebrows slightly darker and/or fuller. You can also create a straighter brow line by brushing them into shape or filling them in with makeup. » More about eyebrows

(Para)medical tips

Haptotherapy

Many trans men feel disconnected from their bodies on an emotional level. Haptotherapy can help strengthen the connection between body and mind.  » More about haptotherapy

Hip liposuction

During female puberty, the hips become wider, partly because of pelvic changes and partly due to increased fat deposits around the hips. Testosterone therapy often causes the hips to appear narrower over time because body fat is redistributed. If you continue to have very wide hips and this causes distress, hip liposuction may be an option to consider. » More about hip liposuction

Medical tattooing

If scars remain very noticeable—for example after chest surgery—you may choose to have medical tattooing. This treatment helps the scar blend more naturally with your skin tone and can sometimes also make the scar tissue slightly more supple. » More about medical tatooing