Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Transitioning => Hormone replacement therapy => Topic started by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 07:35:53 AM

Title: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 07:35:53 AM
I'm 18, almost 19, (yes, young) like 5'4" (at least I'm lucky here), 100 lbs, and I'm thinking about going to therapy/maybe starting hormones soon. However, I really feel like I won't be able to pass. I mean, I've seen transition videos and things like that, but I feel like I have masculine facial features that won't really be changed. It worries me, because I'm already unsure about transitioning, or how I identify, and if I do it, and don't pass, that's even worse, I feel. Not to mention I already don't know how I'm going to get my female voice, I've tried training on and off but never stuck to it, and it seems pointless. Hopefully y'all can give me some guidance, or have some ideas. <3

Love y'all,

Riley
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: KayXo on April 11, 2018, 08:06:07 AM
I've been on hormones for 14 years. They changed me SIGNIFICANTLY, face, body but very small breasts. I look undeniably female, HRT softened my features dramatically, hair removal helps a LOT too! My voice is also undeniably female, I pass 100% of the time on the phone, in person, easier. Only caveat is that fear that remains of my male voice coming out at any moment as that lower register still remains despite my being able to talk consistently in female register. Just use the upper portion of your voicebox.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 08:12:36 AM
Quote from: KayXo on April 11, 2018, 08:06:07 AM
I've been on hormones for 14 years. They changed me SIGNIFICANTLY, face, body but very small breasts. I look undeniably female, HRT softened my features dramatically, hair removal helps a LOT too! My voice is also undeniably female, I pass 100% of the time on the phone, in person, easier. Only caveat is that fear that remains of my male voice coming out at any moment as that lower register still remains despite my being able to talk consistently in female register. Just use the upper portion of your voicebox.

Thanks! I'm glad you pass! Do you mind if I ask when you started HRT? How long was it before you were able to pass? If I ask something out of line, feel free to let me know. Yeah, I think the voice can be an issue for a lot of us, I've been struggling with that, but I really try to sing a lot in my car and expand my limits.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: KayXo on April 11, 2018, 08:24:34 AM
I started young, is all I'm gonna say...but past puberty. I passed within months of starting HRT and after 9 months and 6 laser treatments for my face, I couldn't pass as male anymore. I already had long hair from growing it for about two years. My face wasn't all that masculine to start with but still somewhat angular. I have small features, which helps. Size 6.5- 8 shoes, small fingers/hands (size 7-8 fingers). I'm 5'6. Gained some weight, was quite skinny.

HRT will keep you younger looking so bonus! :)
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Jessica_Rose on April 11, 2018, 08:53:07 AM
When I started I was confident that I was going to be an ugly woman, but I knew I had to do this. I am 6ft 1in, down to 162lbs, but I do wear size 13 shoes! Several people on this site have told me that I pass, and I have not had any issues so far. I won't tell you how old I am, but I watched the original Star Trek when it was first broadcast! I have only been on HRT a little over a year, but I do think it has made a difference. I do not wear any padding, and that is my real hair.

The first photo is from Feb 2017, the second was from March 2018, the third was my first day at work as Jessica (Feb 19, 2018).

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FUabcDWf.jpg&hash=ae12a93859082e98eda588462613b10f7f2c65d9) (https://imgur.com/UabcDWf)(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBQbbTod.jpg&hash=2a84dd742a288c2c322fc9440cd743b3a1e99ec2) (https://imgur.com/BQbbTod)(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0tNyGrN.jpg&hash=cda58ef2a5a3e1085c2fb3253054caaae6241e4a) (https://imgur.com/0tNyGrN)
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: AnamethatstartswithE on April 11, 2018, 09:04:59 AM
Here is me after 7 months on hrt. The first picture is from a year ago and pre everything.


(https://i.imgur.com/KZ1qcjG.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/upiOiGo.jpg)
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Shellie Hart on April 11, 2018, 09:07:39 AM
I wish HRT was at least a little predictable. It is not. I have been on HRT for a little over two years and the only noticeable change on me are nice C-cup breasts. I started flat-chested and now I am a nice curvy woman as far as my chest is concerned. I can't see any change in my face at all, even though people tell me all the time that I have lost weight (they "see it in my face"). But I am sure it's because my waist looks small because of my protruding chest. I can't be sure, though. There are other small changes (hips, smell, skin), but the boob fairy wants me to have large breasts (they are still growing). HRT is definitely YMMV...
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 09:33:42 AM
Quote from: KayXo on April 11, 2018, 08:24:34 AM
I started young, is all I'm gonna say...but past puberty. I passed within months of starting HRT and after 9 months and 6 laser treatments for my face, I couldn't pass as male anymore. I already had long hair from growing it for about two years. My face wasn't all that masculine to start with but still somewhat angular. I have small features, which helps. Size 6.5- 8 shoes, small fingers/hands (size 7-8 fingers). I'm 5'6. Gained some weight, was quite skinny.

HRT will keep you younger looking so bonus! :)

Yeah that's true! Thanks for the input. :)
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:21:02 AM
Quote from: Jessica_Rose on April 11, 2018, 08:53:07 AM
When I started I was confident that I was going to be an ugly woman, but I knew I had to do this. I am 6ft 1in, down to 162lbs, but I do wear size 13 shoes! Several people on this site have told me that I pass, and I have not had any issues so far. I won't tell you how old I am, but I watched the original Star Trek when it was first broadcast! I have only been on HRT a little over a year, but I do think it has made a difference. I do not wear any padding, and that is my real hair.

The first photo is from Feb 2017, the second was from March 2018, the third was my first day at work as Jessica (Feb 19, 2018).

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FUabcDWf.jpg&hash=ae12a93859082e98eda588462613b10f7f2c65d9) (https://imgur.com/UabcDWf)(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBQbbTod.jpg&hash=2a84dd742a288c2c322fc9440cd743b3a1e99ec2) (https://imgur.com/BQbbTod)(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0tNyGrN.jpg&hash=cda58ef2a5a3e1085c2fb3253054caaae6241e4a) (https://imgur.com/0tNyGrN)

That's really great! You do pass well. I think that I'm honestly overthinking it, HRT seems to do a lot for quite a number of people. Thanks for the input!
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:53:43 AM
Quote from: Shellie Hart on April 11, 2018, 09:07:39 AM
I wish HRT was at least a little predictable. It is not. I have been on HRT for a little over two years and the only noticeable change on me are nice C-cup breasts. I started flat-chested and now I am a nice curvy woman as far as my chest is concerned. I can't see any change in my face at all, even though people tell me all the time that I have lost weight (they "see it in my face"). But I am sure it's because my waist looks small because of my protruding chest. I can't be sure, though. There are other small changes (hips, smell, skin), but the boob fairy wants me to have large breasts (they are still growing). HRT is definitely YMMV...

Ohhh okay, yeah I'm sure it isn't. Can I ask how long you've been on HRT and when you started?
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Northern Star Girl on April 11, 2018, 12:51:29 PM
@ rlacy:  Every BODY reacts in it's own unique way to HRT.  You can not expect to have the very same results that you read about others having.  Your results could be quicker or slower... more significant or less significant... etc, etc.
The frequent phrase used here is "Your mileage may vary"  ... one thing is for certain, nothing happens with HRT as quickly as we all desire... human nature says... "We want it all and we want it NOW"
Those who have gotten similar messages from me might be tired of me saying that "Patience is required"

A lot of anyone's changes will have to do with what ones face looks like before they started HRT... and another big factor is in you genes that you were born with....  those unchanging factors are key elements in body and face changes.

Have fun (and patience) with your transition journey....
Danielle

The first picture below is a "before" picture of me when I was in College as a young man...  I was a scrawny and small young man...  soft facial features, a girlish face I was told, and a voice to match.  I suffered lots of demeaning comments from the bigger, stronger and more masculine classmates... especially in the locker room.   Now, of course all of that has worked to my advantage in my transition goal.  The other pictures are after 3+ years of HRT ... I came out full-time after 18 months of HRT and have been very successfully passing as a female.

I am still small but the problems I had being a young college man that I looked like a boy/girl are NOW working in my favor as I have transitioned.  I am still small, not a runt, but rather petite ( a better term for a female)...   I have refined my mannerisms, walking ,sitting, generally moving around, standing, eating.... and better manners all the way around to more conform to the woman I have become.

The after pictures of me as very blonde is after a make over I had in early March on my 3 year anniversary of HRT... it really shows my changes to becoming a woman especially in my face as compared to the before "young man" pic.  Then there are also some other pics of me as a Full-time woman and my latest is my profile pic.  I have since darkened my hair a little.... it was just a tad too bright for my liking.... but the makeover, eyebrow work,  and salon treatment with a manicure and pedicure were a wonderful time of being pampered.



Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Shellie Hart on April 11, 2018, 02:16:15 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:53:43 AM
Ohhh okay, yeah I'm sure it isn't. Can I ask how long you've been on HRT and when you started?
I started at 41. Two years so far.....

EDIT: I am jealous of Danielle. Facially for me, there is no hope....
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:03:09 PM
Quote from: Shellie Hart on April 11, 2018, 02:16:15 PM
I started at 41. Two years so far.....

EDIT: I am jealous of Danielle. Facially for me, there is no hope....

I wouldn't say no hope. :) There's always surgery, if you're up for that. Either way, you're your authentic self.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:17:31 PM
Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on April 11, 2018, 12:51:29 PM
@ rlacy:  Every BODY reacts in it's own unique way to HRT.  You can not expect to have the very same results that you read about others having.  Your results could be quicker or slower... more significant or less significant... etc, etc.
The frequent phrase used here is "Your mileage may vary"  ... one thing is for certain, nothing happens with HRT as quickly as we all desire... human nature says... "We want it all and we want it NOW"
Those who have gotten similar messages from me might be tired of me saying that "Patience is required"

A lot of anyone's changes will have to do with what ones face looks like before they started HRT... and another big factor is in you genes that you were born with....  those unchanging factors are key elements in body and face changes.

Have fun (and patience) with your transition journey....
Danielle

The first picture below is a "before" picture of me when I was in College as a young man...  I was a scrawny and small young man...  soft facial features, a girlish face I was told, and a voice to match.  I suffered lots of demeaning comments from the bigger, stronger and more masculine classmates... especially in the locker room.   Now, of course all of that has worked to my advantage in my transition goal.  The other pictures are after 3+ years of HRT ... I came out full-time after 18 months of HRT and have been very successfully passing as a female.

I am still small but the problems I had being a young college man that I looked like a boy/girl are NOW working in my favor as I have transitioned.  I am still small, not a runt, but rather petite ( a better term for a female)...   I have refined my mannerisms, walking ,sitting, generally moving around, standing, eating.... and better manners all the way around to more conform to the woman I have become.

The after pictures of me as very blonde is after a make over I had in early March on my 3 year anniversary of HRT... it really shows my changes to becoming a woman especially in my face as compared to the before "young man" pic.  Then there are also some other pics of me as a Full-time woman and my latest is my profile pic.  I have since darkened my hair a little.... it was just a tad too bright for my liking.... but the makeover, eyebrow work,  and salon treatment with a manicure and pedicure were a wonderful time of being pampered.



Wow, that's a really great story, and you pass so well! Honestly, I think it is just something I'm going to have to accept. I mean, I don't want to be clocked my whole life, but if I decide that I can't live as a man, then there's really no point. I see what you're saying how it really depends how your face looks before HRT, and it might not change much, I've seen that through a lot of before and afters. Thanks for the input, and sharing your story!

Do you think it's something I should take into account when I decide to transition? I mean, should me being able to pass be a factor in my decision to transition or not?

Another note, does therapy really help? I've been thinking about this for like four years now, and I just don't see how a therapist could help me find myself. I feel like I've tried everything, asked myself every question, etc, some I just can't answer.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Donna on April 11, 2018, 11:34:48 PM
Can never say there is no hope. Only 4 months ago I felt
The same way, no way I ever pass. Now I can go out and be properly gendered for the most part and completely unrecognized by people that have known me for years. Never give up on yourself.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Dena on April 11, 2018, 11:41:40 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:17:31 PM
Do you think it's something I should take into account when I decide to transition? I mean, should me being able to pass be a factor in my decision to transition or not?

Another note, does therapy really help? I've been thinking about this for like four years now, and I just don't see how a therapist could help me find myself. I feel like I've tried everything, asked myself every question, etc, some I just can't answer.
Should you transition? The answer is can you be happy as a male? If not, I think you have your answer.

As for passing, there are many thing than determine if you pass. If your willing to put the work in, you should be able to pass. I looked at your image and you look like HRT could help a great deal. You might not glamorous but I think you could be feminine.

With the right therapist and if you put the effort in, a therapist will help a great deal. You still have to answer the questions but a therapist will know the questions to ask and how to find the answers. The important thing is your young and your results will be better the sooner you start. I started HRT about age 26 and was considered masculine in appearance. My avatar is about age 34. Starting earlier will have even better results.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 07:17:41 AM
Quote from: Dena on April 11, 2018, 11:41:40 PM
Should you transition? The answer is can you be happy as a male? If not, I think you have your answer.

As for passing, there are many thing than determine if you pass. If your willing to put the work in, you should be able to pass. I looked at your image and you look like HRT could help a great deal. You might not glamorous but I think you could be feminine.

With the right therapist and if you put the effort in, a therapist will help a great deal. You still have to answer the questions but a therapist will know the questions to ask and how to find the answers. The important thing is your young and your results will be better the sooner you start. I started HRT about age 26 and was considered masculine in appearance. My avatar is about age 34. Starting earlier will have even better results.

Thanks, I think I might be able to pass too. Can I ask what image you're talking about? I know I posted it on another post a while back, but I don't have a profile image.

Honestly I don't know if I can answer those questions, it's been difficult to do so in the past. I really think I am genderfluid, because there are times where I'm fine with it. But overall, my thing is, I can't truly express myself when I'm feeling female, whereas I wouldn't really have that issue when I feel more male, after I transition (if that makes any sense at all...).

I think I am going to go to therapy soon, I have the ability, it's just scary. That it's actually a reality now. Anyways, thanks for the input! :)
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Charlie Nicki on April 12, 2018, 07:26:29 AM
I haven't seen your pics but the fact that you're so young and physically small are great advantages. You'll be fine, you just need to be patient, HRT takes time to do its magic.

Enviado de meu Moto G (5) Plus usando Tapatalk

Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 07:30:37 AM
Quote from: Charlie Nicki on April 12, 2018, 07:26:29 AM
I haven't seen your pics but the fact that you're so young and physically small are great advantages. You'll be fine, you just need to be patient, HRT takes time to do its magic.

Enviado de meu Moto G (5) Plus usando Tapatalk

Thanks :) I think that you're right. Also, can i just say you're gorgeous (That goes for everyone here, too)??
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Roll on April 12, 2018, 08:09:26 AM
I wish I was that small! :) But yeah, don't underestimate the change potential. Fear that I was too masculine stole my 20s from me, don't let it do the same to you.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Dena on April 12, 2018, 08:34:11 AM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 07:17:41 AM
Thanks, I think I might be able to pass too. Can I ask what image you're talking about? I know I posted it on another post a while back, but I don't have a profile image.
An advantage of being a site member like you is you can click on the little man on the left of your post and see your profile. Your profile contains a link to your entire posting history. I simply clicked on that and looked at your previous posting history and found the post where you put up two images of yourself.

This history is often helpful when I am trying to advise others because it fills in details that may not be in the post I am addressing. This is extremely useful to me as I work with so many members that I sometimes get my facts confused and posting history will tell me what was said and what wasn't.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 09:20:17 AM
Quote from: Dena on April 12, 2018, 08:34:11 AM
An advantage of being a site member like you is you can click on the little man on the left of your post and see your profile. Your profile contains a link to your entire posting history. I simply clicked on that and looked at your previous posting history and found the post where you put up two images of yourself.

This history is often helpful when I am trying to advise others because it fills in details that may not be in the post I am addressing. This is extremely useful to me as I work with so many members that I sometimes get my facts confused and posting history will tell me what was said and what wasn't.

Ohh okay, yeah I wasn't sure if you looked back at that post or not. Thanks again for the advice!
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Roll on April 12, 2018, 09:42:22 AM
Out of curiosity I went back and looked at the pictures, I think you look great.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 10:26:30 AM
Quote from: Roll on April 12, 2018, 09:42:22 AM
Out of curiosity I went back and looked at the pictures, I think you look great.

Awwh thank you :) You do too!
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Charlie Nicki on April 12, 2018, 12:48:27 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 07:30:37 AM
Thanks :) I think that you're right. Also, can i just say you're gorgeous (That goes for everyone here, too)??
Oh thank you! My pic is retouched though. But I'm slowly getting there :)

Enviado de meu Moto G (5) Plus usando Tapatalk

Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 01:17:09 PM
Quote from: Charlie Nicki on April 12, 2018, 12:48:27 PM
Oh thank you! My pic is retouched though. But I'm slowly getting there :)

Enviado de meu Moto G (5) Plus usando Tapatalk

Oh okay, well that's good though!
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Allison S on April 12, 2018, 02:01:15 PM
Quote from: Charlie Nicki on April 12, 2018, 12:48:27 PM
Oh thank you! My pic is retouched though. But I'm slowly getting there :)

Enviado de meu Moto G (5) Plus usando Tapatalk
Yes, Charlie Nicki you're a stunner [emoji4]

And OP, you're critical like all of us here..but with your age and proportions you're in a good spot. I think talking with a therapist might be helpful for you to continue to explore your gender. They could even suggest trans support groups to go to around your area. Definitely mention this to the therapist you meet.

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: BrandiYYC on April 12, 2018, 06:36:03 PM
I am only around 4 months HRT and have only noticed 1 significant change in my body so far, breasts! My sister says she notices a big difference in my skin but I haven't noticed anything yet probably because I see my ugly mug everyday  :D. Still a work in progress.
Title: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: SarahFehrman on April 12, 2018, 06:37:31 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 12, 2018, 07:17:41 AM
Thanks, I think I might be able to pass too. Can I ask what image you're talking about? I know I posted it on another post a while back, but I don't have a profile image.

Honestly I don't know if I can answer those questions, it's been difficult to do so in the past. I really think I am genderfluid, because there are times where I'm fine with it. But overall, my thing is, I can't truly express myself when I'm feeling female, whereas I wouldn't really have that issue when I feel more male, after I transition (if that makes any sense at all...).

I think I am going to go to therapy soon, I have the ability, it's just scary. That it's actually a reality now. Anyways, thanks for the input! [emoji4]
You can do this, as long as you are clear on your direction within yourself. It's good that you're so young. Just please don't let your years go by while you're staying on the fence. Many of us here, myself included, have known who we really are for all of our lives but, for reasons that may have seemed good AT THE TIME, waited and prevaricated out of a sense of obligation or fear of "what might happen".  I wish I had it to do all over again. Thankfully, it's never too late. But take advantage of where you're at now. Talk to someone, by all means. I would suggest that you start with herbs if you're shy of the more "hard core" HRT. And remember, until you actually have surgery, you can always undo and reset. Please keep us posted as you embark on your journey. You have friends here who have been and are where you are. We know how it is. I lift my wine glass and toast you, dear heart. May your joy be full!


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 13, 2018, 07:52:36 AM
Quote from: SarahFehrman on April 12, 2018, 06:37:31 PM
You can do this, as long as you are clear on your direction within yourself. It's good that you're so young. Just please don't let your years go by while you're staying on the fence. Many of us here, myself included, have known who we really are for all of our lives but, for reasons that may have seemed good AT THE TIME, waited and prevaricated out of a sense of obligation or fear of "what might happen".  I wish I had it to do all over again. Thankfully, it's never too late. But take advantage of where you're at now. Talk to someone, by all means. I would suggest that you start with herbs if you're shy of the more "hard core" HRT. And remember, until you actually have surgery, you can always undo and reset. Please keep us posted as you embark on your journey. You have friends here who have been and are where you are. We know how it is. I lift my wine glass and toast you, dear heart. May your joy be full!


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown

Awwwwwwh <3 This really warms my heart... Thank you for the encouragement :) I have been doubting whether or not I should go to therapy, so this helps. Can I ask what herbs are? I will be sure to keep y'all posted, I really feel the love and support with this community. Thank you again!
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: SarahFehrman on April 13, 2018, 01:54:50 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 13, 2018, 07:52:36 AM
Awwwwwwh <3 This really warms my heart... Thank you for the encouragement :) I have been doubting whether or not I should go to therapy, so this helps. Can I ask what herbs are? I will be sure to keep y'all posted, I really feel the love and support with this community. Thank you again!
They frown on us giving out the names of herbs here, unfortunately. Prescription meds are okay to mention, though. Has anyone sent you the guidelines?


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: rlacy2018 on April 13, 2018, 02:15:28 PM
Quote from: SarahFehrman on April 13, 2018, 01:54:50 PM
They frown on us giving out the names of herbs here, unfortunately. Prescription meds are okay to mention, though. Has anyone sent you the guidelines?


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown

Ohh haha.. those kinds of herbs, okay. No, nobody has, I don't think.
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: Northern Star Girl on April 13, 2018, 02:29:23 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 13, 2018, 02:15:28 PM
Ohh haha.. those kinds of herbs, okay. No, nobody has, I don't think.

@rlacy2018   Hmmm, my feeling about the herbs is that they are most usually a big waste of money and a waste of your time....   
While some herbs may cause very minor changes... breast tenderness, etc.... it would take massive and unwise dosages that can all too easily be very harmful to your health...   
If one is considering transition it is best to do some simple things to one's appearance... hair, makeup, clothing, etc to explore that possibility for your life then if still interested,  my suggestion would be to see a counselor or therapist that deals with transgender issues.... they can help you to sort all of this out in your mind...
Nothing can substitute for medically supervised and safe HRT by a Doctor.
Danielle
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: SarahFehrman on April 13, 2018, 02:43:05 PM
Quote from: Alaskan Danielle on April 13, 2018, 02:29:23 PM
@rlacy2018   Hmmm, my feeling about the herbs is that they are most usually a big waste of money and a waste of your time....   
While some herbs may cause very minor changes... breast tenderness, etc.... it would take massive and unwise dosages that can all too easily be very harmful to your health...   
If one is considering transition it is best to do some simple things to one's appearance... hair, makeup, clothing, etc to explore that possibility for your life then if still interested,  my suggestion would be to see a counselor or therapist that deals with transgender issues.... they can help you to sort all of this out in your mind...
Nothing can substitute for medically supervised and safe HRT by a Doctor.
Danielle
What Danielle said.


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown
Title: Re: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: I Am Jess on April 13, 2018, 04:45:46 PM
Quote from: rlacy2018 on April 11, 2018, 11:17:31 PM
I mean, I don't want to be clocked my whole life, but if I decide that I can't live as a man, then there's really no point. I see what you're saying how it really depends how your face looks before HRT, and it might not change much, I've seen that through a lot of before and afters.

Do you think it's something I should take into account when I decide to transition? I mean, should me being able to pass be a factor in my decision to transition or not?

Another note, does therapy really help? I've been thinking about this for like four years now, and I just don't see how a therapist could help me find myself. I feel like I've tried everything, asked myself every question, etc, some I just can't answer.

If you are still young and don't have overly male features you should do fine with HRT.  I think that being concerned with passing is one of many factors that someone has to consider when thinking about transitioning.  We are all individuals who have enormous differences and yet have many similarities.  This is where a good gender therapist can come into play.  If you can get someone who has experience dealing with transitioning they can be invaluable.   I knew that I was going to transition when I set my first appointment.  I found someone who was able to explore all the variables with me and help put everything into perspective for me.  She was able to identify issues for me and help me resolve them during the process.  Getting someone with experience can help you identify the issues and questions you have and help you make informed and intelligent decisions about what you want to do and how to go about doing something about it. 

You can see from many of the girls who have posted on this site that HRT can do amazing things.  When I first started out I wan't sure I would be able to pass.  Facially and body (figure) wise I have no issues passing now.  However because I am 6'2" tall and wear size 13 shoes and have fairly large hands the tells are all there and I get clocked most of the time.  Most people don't care and in fact tell me they admire me for doing what I've done.  I have cis women and men tell me I am a source of inspiration to them and they love my spirit and attitude.  They see me as female, treat me as female and don't care that I'm trans.  So apparently confidence, attitude and happiness breeds goodwill and makes people comfortable.  The main thing is that you be comfortable with yourself.  That comfort will make others comfortable also.

To give you an idea of my changes, here is a before and after.   I did have some minor FFS done 2 1/2 years ago but that was not what has changed me the most, it's been the effects of estrogen.  (The before was taken the day I started HRT 3 years ago and the afters were taken on Tuesday and a couple weeks ago.)  As usual your mileage may vary and results are not guaranteed.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/37691697046_07bf0d023e_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZqFNnC)(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/41395414841_0e16b7473f_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/264YjCZ)(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4802/25882260787_9d73837cf3_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Fr8mpD)
Title: How Much Do Hormones Genuinely Change Things (Especially facially)?
Post by: SarahFehrman on April 15, 2018, 12:08:17 PM
Quote from: I Am Jess on April 13, 2018, 04:45:46 PM
If you are still young and don't have overly male features you should do fine with HRT.  I think that being concerned with passing is one of many factors that someone has to consider when thinking about transitioning.  We are all individuals who have enormous differences and yet have many similarities.  This is where a good gender therapist can come into play.  If you can get someone who has experience dealing with transitioning they can be invaluable.   I knew that I was going to transition when I set my first appointment.  I found someone who was able to explore all the variables with me and help put everything into perspective for me.  She was able to identify issues for me and help me resolve them during the process.  Getting someone with experience can help you identify the issues and questions you have and help you make informed and intelligent decisions about what you want to do and how to go about doing something about it. 

You can see from many of the girls who have posted on this site that HRT can do amazing things.  When I first started out I wan't sure I would be able to pass.  Facially and body (figure) wise I have no issues passing now.  However because I am 6'2" tall and wear size 13 shoes and have fairly large hands the tells are all there and I get clocked most of the time.  Most people don't care and in fact tell me they admire me for doing what I've done.  I have cis women and men tell me I am a source of inspiration to them and they love my spirit and attitude.  They see me as female, treat me as female and don't care that I'm trans.  So apparently confidence, attitude and happiness breeds goodwill and makes people comfortable.  The main thing is that you be comfortable with yourself.  That comfort will make others comfortable also.

To give you an idea of my changes, here is a before and after.   I did have some minor FFS done 2 1/2 years ago but that was not what has changed me the most, it's been the effects of estrogen.  (The before was taken the day I started HRT 3 years ago and the afters were taken on Tuesday and a couple weeks ago.)  As usual your mileage may vary and results are not guaranteed.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/37691697046_07bf0d023e_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZqFNnC)(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/41395414841_0e16b7473f_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/264YjCZ)(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4802/25882260787_9d73837cf3_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Fr8mpD)
Wow. #I Am Jess!!! You are gorgeous! What an inspiration you are to other older tall girls like me. I, too, wear a size 13 shoe. I've found nothing at PayLess. Torrid has some shoes, but they're mostly sandals. Where do you shop?


Hugs,
Sarah from ChiTown