Why Affirming Haircare Matters:
Accessing safe and affirming haircare is an often overlooked need for LGBTQ+ and minority communities. While most mainstream salons and barbershops do not always provide inclusive or culturally aware services, networks like Strands for Trans and The Dresscode Project create spaces where clients can confidently express their identity without fear. These initiatives, along with local inclusive salons, online communities, and affirming haircare brands, help form a comprehensive ecosystem that supports safe, respectful, and professional haircare experiences for all clients.
How Strands for Trans Creates Safe Spaces:
Accessing affirming haircare is an essential need for LGBTQ+ and minority communities. Networks like Strands for Trans provide a membership-based platform connecting trans and non-binary clients with barbers and hairstylists trained in gender-affirming services. Members gain access to a map of verified stylists and locations, making it easier to find trusted professionals across the country or internationally. Strands for Trans also offers stylists guidance and training on communication, safety, and inclusive best practices. Participating salons and barbers receive a trans-affirming barber pole, in pink, blue, and white, signaling that the space is safe, supportive, and welcoming for trans and non-binary clients. And by fostering a network of trained professionals, Strands for Trans reduces anxiety and ensures clients experience predictable, safe, and affirming care when visiting salons or barbershops.
What Resources Do These Networks Provide?
Strands for Trans also builds broader community support through resources and guides designed to help trans and non-binary people thrive in multiple spaces. One standout resource, “The Gender Euphoria & Beyond: A Guide for Creating Affirming & Safe Spaces,” was developed from extensive research and focus groups, bringing together diverse experiences and perspectives. This guide offers practical strategies for creating safe, affirming environments not only in haircare but across communities, workplaces, and social spaces. Members of Strands for Trans have access to this guide, enabling both individuals and organizations to cultivate spaces where trans and non-binary people feel respected, supported, and celebrated.
The Dresscode Project: Hair Has No Gender:
The Dresscode Project (DCP) is a global initiative founded by Kristin Rankin (they/them) to create safe, gender-affirming spaces in salons and barbershops for LGBTQ2S+ individuals. At its core, DCP upholds the belief that hair has no gender, advocating for non-gendered haircuts that allow clients to express their authentic selves without being confined to traditional gender norms. Through education and training, DCP empowers stylists to provide inclusive services that respect each client’s identity. The organization also promotes gender-neutral pricing, ensuring that costs are based on factors like skill, time, and hair length, rather than gender. One of DCP’s signature initiatives is the Gender-Free Haircut Club, a monthly event where salons offer free, gender-affirming haircuts to marginalized queer individuals. With over 550 member salons worldwide, DCP is transforming the beauty industry by fostering environments where every client feels seen, respected, and celebrated.
What Does an Affirming Haircare Experience Feel Like?
Imagine walking into a barbershop and noticing a trans pride symbol barber pole on the door or window. You feel an immediate sense of ease, knowing that the stylist understands pronouns and gender-affirming care. The stylist greets you warmly, listens to your style preferences, and communicates respectfully. By the end of the appointment, you leave feeling both cared for and affirmed. This kind of welcoming environment is exactly what Strands for Trans and The Dresscode Project work to create, a space where clients can express themselves confidently without fear of discrimination.
How to Find Local Inclusive Salons:
Outside of these formal networks, there are local salons and barbershops recognized by community members as LGBTQ+ and minority-inclusive. Urban salons often display gender-neutral signage, pronoun policies, and affirming mission statements. Barbershops in college towns may openly welcome clients of all genders and cultural backgrounds. Word-of-mouth recommendations, local community boards, and LGBTQ+ or minority organizations help clients identify these affirming locations. Visible symbols, clear communication, and a culture of respect indicate that clients can expect safe, affirming, and professional care in these spaces.
Online Communities for Haircare Support:
For those seeking affirming haircare advice and community support, there are online resources that cater specifically to LGBTQI+ and minority individuals. Platforms like Reddit communities such as r/TransHairCare, NaturallyCurly.com forums, and HairCareTalk inclusive discussion boards provide spaces for users to share experiences, ask questions, and find guidance for safe and supportive haircare practices. These forums connect people from around the world, making it possible to locate affirming stylists, learn about products for diverse hair textures, and engage with others navigating similar experiences.
Social Media Resources for Inclusive Haircare:
Social media offers vibrant, interactive spaces for connection and education. Instagram accounts like @TransHairNetwork, @InclusiveHairCommunity, and @CurlCollective, along with Facebook groups such as “Queer Haircare Collective” and “Minority Haircare Advocates”, provide supportive communities where members can exchange tips, share local recommendations, and spotlight inclusive salons or stylists. These groups are particularly valuable for LGBTQI+ and minority individuals looking for spaces that celebrate their identities while offering practical haircare guidance.
Inclusive Haircare Brands and Products:
A number of indie and minority-owned brands focus on inclusive, affirming haircare for a wide range of textures and identities. Examples include SheaMoisture’s Pride Collection, Aunt Jackie’s Curl Care Line, The Mane Choice formulations, Eden BodyWorks, and Camille Rose Naturals. SheaMoisture’s Pride Collection is a collaboration with the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, celebrating the legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson and supporting LGBTQ+ communities. While the brand itself is owned by Unilever, this collection, along with other initiatives, reflects SheaMoisture’s commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. These brands prioritize diversity, representation, and accessibility, offering products that cater to curly, coily, and textured hair while supporting LGBTQI+ and minority communities through inclusive marketing and community engagement.
By leveraging resources such as Strands for Trans, The Dresscode Project, local LGBTQ+ and minority-inclusive salons, online communities, and affirming haircare products, clients gain access to a full spectrum of safe and affirming haircare options. These networks not only ensure professional, respectful services but also foster confidence, community, and identity affirmation. Investing in these spaces and resources helps build a broader culture of inclusion in the haircare industry, ensuring that every client can feel safe, valued, and celebrated.
Have you found an affirming haircare space in your community?
What made it feel safe and welcoming?
Share your experiences or recommendations in the comments!
