Hello.
I am changing my name by deed poll in the UK, then I can change my passport. This will be my passport for the next 10 years, so how can I look more feminine for a passport photo? I've been on HRT for about 4 months and I haven't had laser hair removal for my face yet. I would appreciate advice anyone can offer, thank you.
You could try waxing your face a day or so before the photo! It sucks to have to let facial hair grow out long enough to wax, but the results are very good. Alternatively, maybe you could just shave very close and use a foundation/concealer to get a smooth look? Makeup is allowed for passport photos in the US, hopefully UK is the same.
I’ve read that waxing facial hair can make laser less effective in the future and is generally not recommended for trans women. I’ve checked the rules and makeup is allowed for passport photos in the UK, so I’ll definitely give that a try.
Yeah, you definitely have to stop waxing for quite a while before laser can work effectively. I transitioned from waxing my legs to IPL, and it has gone well! It is a shame that IPL doesn't do much on facial hair. Makeup is probably your best bet. Hope your photo ends up great!
If you have darker beard hair like me, use foundation, then an orange colour (I use an orange putty blush) over the beard shadow, then put a concealer that matches your skin tone. Here's a video I used to help me with it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbnnftjyfSs