Published
25th Jun 2024
by Charlotte Grant-West
We spoke to Bimini, drag queen, artist and former winner of Drag Race UK at the Redken x It Gets Better Safe Space event during Pride Month.
We were thrilled to learn that Bimini's mum is a hairdresser, which makes them perfectly placed to advise stylists on how to make LGBTQIA+ clients feel welcome and their best selves whilst in the chair.
- Even though my mum is a hairdresser, the hair salon is still a vulnerable place to be for anyone who identifies as LGBTQIA+ for so many reasons. You come face-to-face with yourself in the mirror for a long time, so for anyone struggling with their gender or sexuality it can be a lot.
- Hair is an important part of identity – and even more important for LGBTQIA+ clients.You choose your hairstyle, it’s part of your everyday drag.
- There is power in being a hairdresser. It’s a life-changing experience having your hair fit who you are as an LGBT+ person. It’s especially important for trans people who are fighting every day for their identity to be recognised.
- My mum always says 'I am not just a hairdresser, I’m a therapist' – so make sure you take time for yourself too. She’s a hustler, working in salons, doing hair at home – I know how hard you guys work.
- My mum let me be experimental with my hair, I got to be expressive when I was younger. Always allow your clients to express themselves. Lauren Bell is my hairdresser now and I’ve found my person. If you have a LGBTQIA+ person in your chair, ask for references in the consultation. Who inspires them? Who do they look up to? We need to create the new beauty standard.
The Redken event was held in partnership with It Gets Better UK, an international movement which envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals. They strive to tell the stories of LGBTQ+ people and to provide positive and reassuring messages to LGBTQ+ young people.
