Nail length before HRT or social transitioning

[LucyTheSorceress]

I'm new to some things and this being one of them. Nail length.

 

Normally I would be biting my nails to cut them, I assume because of depression and anxiety. But I can't bring myself to do that now.

 

What do I do? How long should they be? Should I try to keep them rounded (I work in an accounts office and others could easily see)?

 

I don't feel like I could socially transition, not without longer hair and more than my usual feminine mannerisms. So I feel anxiety about what I would be asked by colleagues or what they think if they see them. 

 

I bring this to you because my sister noticed and told me in seconds. I appreciate her honesty, but it just leads to more anxiety!!!  Aaaarrrrrrh

[Jani]

First, get a good nail brush to keep them clean.  In a pinch an old toothbrush works well and is gentle.  

 

I was a nail biter too and I gave it up 15 years ago.  It was hard but I am proud of having the control it takes.  I was a stress biter.  I had an uncle who always had nicely trimmed nails and that was enough motivation for me.  He was a trucker driver.  

 

As to shape, I like mine rounded/tapered.  My wife likes hers squared off.  It really is your preference.  She says I keep mine too long but I do constantly trim them to keep them from breaking/splitting.  They do require care!  A good "working length" would be not much longer than your finger tip, when you look at them from the side.  If you use a keyboard as I imagine you do, much longer and they get noisy as you type!

 

Don't worry about what others think.  There may be some looks at first but only because it is a change in you.  After you have them longer and or manicured for a while it will be the norm and no one will pay attention.   

 

Have fun, be you! 

Jani

[Susan]

i used to bite my nails bad until i started my transition about a month ago and last week i went and had my nails done at a salon and i was very happy i did. And it did not cost as much as i thought . with the gel coating, i paid 25 bucks and i think it was well worth it. i will be going again in 2 weeks or so again. i had them in clear  color.

 

[jo jo]

have them the length u want them to be and sod everyone else its a personal prefference for everyone length and shape just practice and find what you like and suit

[Kara Zor-El]

I'm not even close to being out or starting my transition, but I keep mine long and shaped. I've caught a couple of the other girls at the office making glances at them, one today actually commented "wow look at those nails, my boyfriend cuts his right down to nothing so I can't even feel it when he scratches my back for me" I just smiled and kept on installing the piece of equipment at her desk. I really want to paint them with clear polish so they're at least shiny (and prevent breaking a little) maybe someday. 

[jae bear]

 Oh my gosh why wait for some day? 

 Go to the salon and have yourself a treat !  Get some pink and whites if you want to go stealthy ! 

 Hugs, 

Jackie