Beauty for all: The role of transgender & drag beauty in the nail space

Inclusivity is undoubtedly one of the leading topics of conversation within the beauty industry, but why does it matter so much?

The British Beauty Council‘s Diversity and Inclusivity Report states that inclusivity matters because all consumers should see themselves represented and valued equally, and that it makes good business sense.

“It is time for the beauty industry to shift its focus to inspiring and empowering the consumer, to promoting positive self-image and celebrating all the different forms of unique beauty. Diversity should be present across all levels of a company,” the report details.

Here, three techs share their experiences of transgender and drag beauty…

Melanie Garlick

Melanie of Cruelty Free Clawz has worked with several drag artists. Her first break into the drag world was with Ellie Diamond from season 2 of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

“Creating nails for Ellie really pushed me creatively. I am so inspired by drag outfits, and I spend a lot of time planning how nails can complement and complete them. This then inspired me to consider offering a bespoke service and most importantly, to evaluate what my brand stands for,” comments Melanie. “Inclusivity and diversity in nails was what spoke to me the most, and I felt it was important to highlight this on my social media platforms, to promote how Cruelty Free Clawz is for everyone.”

The nail tech also chose drag artist, Tomara Thomas, as the brand ambassador for her line of press-on nails. “I had many applicants, but chose Tomara because she’s stunning and a wonderful human being, and also represents my ethos of inclusivity and diversity. Plus, her creativity is on another level!”

Claire Wheeler

Crystal Parade brand ambassador, Claire Wheeler, owns nail salon, Beauty and the Wish. During lockdown, she started creating bespoke press-on nails, which have been purchased globally. “Press-on nails are perfect for drag queens, as they can wear them when they’re in drag and take them off when they’re not,” she says.

Claire was thrilled to create nails for drag queen, Ella Vaday. “Crystal Parade works closely with the costume designers for several drag queens, and I was recommended to Ella to create an important set of nails,” she reveals.

Crystal Parade supplied the crystals for the nail look and Claire liaised with Ella to coordinate the nails with her outfit, with the instruction to make them extremely sparkly. “It wasn’t until RuPaul’s Drag Race UK promotional shots were released, that I knew what Ella had been up to. I was delighted to see her wearing the nails I created,” she smiles.

Zahara Hussein

Transgender and queer nail tech, Zahara Hussein, has had uncomfortable experiences in the past when having her nails done. “I’m a 5 foot 11, plus size, black transgender woman with size 10.5 feet. I’ve had to deal with people questioning my gender, being charged more for having large hands and members of the public telling me I do not belong in a nail salon,” she shares.

In light of these experiences, Zahara helps the transgender community out of homelessness and unemployment, by providing the skills, education and resources needed to become a working citizen, through beauty and arts. “This project is very important to me,” the entrepreneur tells Scratch. “I would like there to be more exposure, knowledge and understanding of the trans community; helping to cut down hate crime, discrimination and enforcing equal opportunity and human rights, while inspiring and mentally strengthening members of the community.”

In addition, her salon, Da House of Phalanges, is designed for all to enjoy beauty treatments, as well as experience masterclasses in art hosted by queer and trans people. “Integrating the different worlds will hopefully form a sense of understanding for a safer society and community for all,” Zahara notes.

Article by Emma Hobday, first published 8 October 2021