Courtesy of @travisalabanza.
While trans and non-binary people have always influenced and been a behind-the-scenes force in the beauty industry, it is only in recent years that we are starting to see mainstream representation. On one hand, it is heartening to see change, but on the other, it’s concerning that it has taken this long. We reached out to one of the faces of haircare brand Pantene’s #HairHasNoGender campaign, Travis Alabanza to talk about where the industry is and where it still needs to go:
It’s been a big year for transvisibility in beauty what with Teddy Quinlivan’s Chanel campaign, but why do you think that it took so long to see trans faces in these roles and what obstacles remain for mainstream representation?
I think trans people, have always been here! We just have not always been acknowledged. For so many years, trans people, particularly black trans femmes, have been on mood boards, in language, starting trends, being looked at for inspiration. I think now we are just gaining access to demand to be not just used as inspiration, but compensated for our time and given a voice. Beauty should reflect society—trans people are in society—therefore transness should be reflected in beauty.
When it comes to non-binary and transgender representation, the online beauty community looks more diverse with Gigi Gorgeous, Nikita Dragun, and John Maclean racking up millions of YouTube followers between them. What can brands learn from them?
I think brands could and should be using those in the community with experience and knowledge for their information, and they should be compensated for that. We should be brought into boardrooms, in decision-making, brought on as makeup artists—our creative teams should reflect the message we are trying to learn. Not just influencers with large platforms, but some of the best beauty trends and tips are happening in the clubs, in the underground—we should be crediting those geniuses for their art and craft and work!
Travis Alabanza. Courtesy of Pantene.
Hair is interesting because compared to hormone replacement treatment or gender affirming surgery, it’s something that you can easily control. Yet, looking back on before Caitlin Jenner came out, it was one of the things she was mercilessly mocked for in the press. What role do you think it plays in transitions?
I think everyone’s transitions are unique, are different, and we are always in and out of them. It is not a beginning or an end, or a start or finish. Therefore, I can only really think about mine. For me, growing my hair was a decision to allow me to choose myself, and not the comfort of others. What hair does for me is help extend the playfulness and the freeness I try to have in my gender and its expression. By changing its shape, by letting it grow, by allowing it to be more expressive—it is an extension of the desire I have for myself to be more expressive too.
Since it is Trans Awareness Week, what’s a good way to celebrate?
Text your trans friend and check in. Read up on ways to support your local trans community. Donate to a trans health fund. Take some time to reflect.