Top 10 essentials for trans guys & transmascs to survive this summer!
Summer is here and it’s time to enjoy the sun, the beach and all the activities that come with the season! But for trans men and transmasculine folks, summer can present a unique set of challenges. From swimming to dressing up for a special event, finding the right tools that make you feel confident, comfortable and safe can be a daunting task. Luckily, Paxsies got your back! To help you navigate through this hot summer, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 summer essentials and products for trans guys and transmasculine people that will help you get through anything summer throws your way!
1) Sun protection
The first thing you need to do when stepping out in the scorching heat is to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Sunscreens, hats, and sunglasses should be your best friends this summer. Regardless of your skin complexion, you should apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and any other exposed skin every day (including top surgery scars!), especially when you’re out and about. A broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher is optimal. Investing in a stylish hat or cap is an excellent way to keep your face and neck from being directly hit by the sun’s rays, while sunglasses will protect your eyes from damage and glare.
2. Paxsies swimwear compatible binders & boxers
Summer is synonymous with swimming, and enjoying the water is a must. Whether it’s a pool party or hitting a nearby beach or lake, comfortable swimwear is essential. For trans folks, this can be tricky as finding swimwear that fits your body type can be frustrating. We recommend our sports binders and packing boxers, which are comfortable, stylish and swim compatible! They are easily worn over regular swimming trunks and shirts. Our binders provide safe binding without sacrificing comfort. However, we still recommend taking breaks from binding and not to bind longer than 8 hours a day! Especially with the summer heat, it’s important to let your skin rest and breathe every once in a while. Our packing boxers assure a great swim, without having to worry your (foam) packer might fall out!
3. Cooling Products
The scorching heat can be relentless, but don't worry, some small items can go a long way in helping you beat the heat. Consider investing in a cooling towel, it works by retaining water, which makes it stay colder longer. Just wrap it around your neck or shoulders, and you'll gradually feel your body temperature drop in minutes. A cheaper solution is using a regular towel or cap and drenching it in water every few hours. Coconut oil sunscreen is also an excellent choice for those hot summer days. It has a cooling effect, and unlike regular sunscreen, it doesn’t leave your skin feeling sticky, providing extra soothing benefits.
4. Breathable Clothing
Summer means hot weather and the last thing you want is to feel claustrophobic in tight clothing. Invest in light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. Linen, cotton, and bamboo fabrics are good choices that can wick away moisture from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day. Whether it's shorts and tees or tank tops and vests, invest in clothes that are loose-fitting and hang away from your skin to improve air circulation. Additionally, unbuttoned shirts can help you reduce chest dysphoria, as the shirt will give you a more rectangular shape. A patterned piece of clothing also reduces the focus on your chest area.
5. Sweat-Proof Deodorant
Summer is notorious for making you sweaty and smelly. Guys on T will know what we’re talking about! A strong, long-lasting, sweat-proof deodorant is a must-have this season. Look for deodorants that are aluminum-free and contain natural ingredients that will not irritate your skin. There are several options for deodorants in the market, from scented and unscented to roll-ons or solid forms. Find what works for you and stick to it for the summer, trust us that you don't want to be caught off guard on a hot summer day.
6. Moisturizer
Moisturizing your skin during the summer is critical, not just for the sake of hydration and people affected by acne. Still, for sun damage prevention. Dry skin tends to sunburn quickly, so it’s important to ensure your skin is hydrated throughout the day. Hydration will also help to avoid skin peeling. Look for a lightweight and non-greasy moisturizer that can help keep your skin supple and soft throughout the day. Make sure it also contains an SPF factor for extra protection.
7. Comfortable Shoes
Summer is all about exploring the outdoors, and to do so comfortably, you need to invest in a good pair of shoes. Sandals are great, especially if you like to keep your feet cool, but they’re not ideal for everyone. You can buy comfortable sneakers, boat shoes, or any other pair of shoes based on your individual style and preference. Pick shoes that are supportive and comfortable, some insoles may also be necessary if you have flat feet or higher arches. If you started taking testosterone, there’s a chance you might outgrow your old shoes, so make sure to check if they still fit you. Else, this is the ideal time to invest in some new shoes in the right size!
8. Stylish Accessories
Summer is an excellent time to add some trendy accessories to your wardrobe. From bracelets to necklaces, stylish accessories can make your outfit 'pop' and align your style with your personality and gender identity. Accessories don’t have to be gendered, but sometimes it’s very affirming to have certain things to help you boost your masculinity! Beads, stone jewelry, and metal cuffs can give you a masculine touch and add style to your overall look. Look for stylish hats, belts, and suspenders that are also functional.
9. Safe travel
Sadly, it’s not always convenient or even safe to travel as a trans person. Your safety can depend on multiple facets: your appearance, whether you changed your sex marker on your ID or not, packing could possibly cause trouble customs. That’s why it’s important when you plan your travel, to look up if it’s safe enough for you to travel there. ILGA, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, has a great section on their website where you can look up any country and see if it’s trans friendly or not. Also don’t be afraid to ask in your local queer community for traveling tips and advice.
10. Friends and Loved Ones
Finally, you don’t only rely on just clothes and trinkets. Having a bunch of supporting friends and/or family is equally if not more important. They can help boost your confidence and (re)affirm your gender identity. Friends can make you feel loved and give you that extra nudge into the right direction to become the most authentic version of yourself during this summer! Going for a swim might be a little less daunting when you invite a loved one with you. They can be your emotional support and help you focus on enjoying your time at the beach, the lake or pool.
In conclusion, the summer season can be challenging for trans men and transmasc folks, but with the right products, friends and know-hows, you can enjoy everything it has to offer. From sun protection, comfortable clothes to having the right friends and sources, these top 10 essentials are this summer's must-haves. Paxsies provides quality, comfortable, and stylish swimwear, designed with trans people in mind, making it a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. Embrace this season with all the right essentials and enjoy it to the fullest and safest.
