How I’ve dealt with trolls & found community as a transgender nail tech

From a young age, Logan Cullen found joy in creating nail looks. But joining the nail industry professionally has seen the transgender tech have to navigate challenges…

“When I was younger, I saw the first Tobey Maguire Spider-Man movie and wanted to be Peter Parker – I couldn’t understand why no one saw me in that way,” Logan recounts. “I have very feminine features, so sought to move as far away from a ‘girl’ image as possible, and started dressing in masculine clothes.

“Figuring out that I’m non-binary was amazing, because I could be comfortable to love femme things again. I realised that I could allow myself to like what I like and if people don’t get it, that’s OK, because I finally understood myself.”

Living in San Francisco, California, USA, Logan has felt acceptance from clients and co-workers and notes their privilege in being able to be out and supported. “This is why I want to use this to signal that I’m a safe person to work with and visit.

“The beauty industry can be a daunting place for trans people, and I want them to know that I understand that on a personal level.”

Logan continues: “I’ve encountered ignorant people and trolls online, but that’s what the ‘block’ feature is for! One time in the salon, a client started asking me invasive and inappropriate questions, so I simply refused my services. For trans pros, the internet is an amazing place to find a community, and I’ve connected with so many amazing trans nail artists on Instagram. Anyone who’s looking for support or advice is always welcome to chat to me, too.

“Also, people should make an effort to educate themselves if they don’t understand things, rather than get angry. So many negative things I hear about the trans community are stereotypes and people being upset to see trans people living loudly, happily and unapologetically. You don’t have to do everything perfectly to be an ally – just keep learning and listening!”

Logan also offers up advice for nail brands, noting that they still have a way to go in terms of inclusivity: “Many brands refer to their customers as ‘women’ or ‘girls’, which alienates not only trans and non-binary people, but the growing number of men who love nails.”

Follow Logan on Instagram.