I’ve lived with psoriasis for over 20 years. It started as a small patch on my scalp, but it quickly spread across my body, affecting my self-esteem as much as my skin. At first, I tried to hide it—long sleeves in summer, makeup on my face—but it only made me feel more self-conscious.
Over time, I learned that psoriasis wasn’t something I could simply “fix.” It was a part of me, and accepting that was the first step toward living better with it. I focused on managing stress, sticking to a skincare routine, and finding what worked for me in terms of treatment. While it’s still a challenge, I’ve found balance.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that psoriasis doesn’t define me. I’m more than my skin. Today, I no longer feel ashamed. I take care of myself, embrace the good days, and accept the bad ones. Psoriasis may be part of my life, but it doesn’t control it.
Submitted on 8 July 2024, by a 53-year-old female living in England.