I just read this article about beauty standards and while I see the excess of it as harmful I can’t help but feel hypocritical when I think about laser or hormones or even putting on eye shadow and mascara, not to mention FFS.
Every time I read a piece on self-acceptance and body-positivity I stop and ask myself - why can’t I be happy with my body? For me the dysphoria is mostly social but even then - why can’t I just accept my AGAB and live with it? How is changing my body to fit opposing gender norms (so I pass etc) different to gender-affirming procedures for one’s AGAB?
Both require the same underlying systems - and my face laser wouldn’t be attainable without the massive beauty industry making it affordable by virtue of many cis women using the service.
Similar with hormones. If most postmenopausal women didn’t get E prescribed, then it would be prohibitaly expensive (I guess this is a weaker point since hormones are beneficial for health reasons not just beauty) but still my use case is mostly aesthetical (to pass) so that feels even less justified.
It feels as if my transition is only possible because it’s either subsidised by an industry I see as harmful or via methods not intended for their initial purpose.
Anyone else struggle with any of this?
I’ve struggled with these same thoughts, and while I do believe there is a line between pursuing gender euphoria and pursuing societal beauty standards, finding that line can be very challenging (and subjective).
There is something to be said about acceptance, and I think no matter where you are in your transition, you should show yourself love and grace, because you are so much more than just your appearance. However, if some aesthetic change alleviates dysphoria for you and makes you happier, then by all means, allow yourself to be happier.
At the end of the day, you should do with your body that which brings you joy. Follow what feels right, don’t run from what feels wrong. Changes motivated by insecurities are often an endless treadmill that keep you dissatisfied with your body, while following a lifestyle that feels authentic to you will likely have lasting positive effects.
I don’t think this is a fair criticism. You aren’t responsible for these systems by utilizing them. It’s impossible to live life without interacting with an unethical system. While we can try our best to support the things we agree with, sometimes you only have one option. That’s not your fault as the consumer. IMO the “market decides” mentality is an excuse for these industries to avoid their very real responsibility.
I don’t think gender affirming care or the systems enabling it (especially at the rates they are prescribed) is doing much harm, and the good they bring far outweighs it.