My acne journey

I have suffered with acne since I was 13 years old. There were times when it would clear up a bit as I tried the endless, different contraceptive pills and antibiotics – but it would always flare up again, taking me right back to square one.

It completely knocked my confidence in school as other kids would regularly comment on my spots. I was grateful for the invention of makeup but hated feeling like I had to plaster it on my face every day, just hide my acne a little. My social life suffered as I stopped going to parties, social events and even school on occasions when I felt incredibly low.

Yasmin during a flare-up

My acne seemed to calm down in my final year of school, due to the contraceptive pill and I felt a bit better. However, when I finally met a boy I liked aged 19 my skin flared up, presenting me with the worst case of acne I had ever faced. I felt so embarrassed that I felt the need to sleep with makeup on.

The next few years seemed like a never-ending run of taking antibiotics daily and feeling lousy until at 21 they stopped working for me. After careful consideration and consultation with my dermatologist I tried Isotretinoin. Although it was tough at times, my skin has been completely clear for over two years now and my quality of life has significantly improved.

The effect of acne on mental health

I wanted to write this post as I think acne can often be overlooked, especially by young people who have not experienced the condition themselves. There are many myths that surround acne – that those with the condition are unclean or dirty, that they’re eating the wrong foods or that they will grow out of it.

Acne can have a profound effect on your mental health and daily life – especially living in a world where social media shows off perfect lives and perfect physical appearances. If you are struggling with acne – remember you are not alone – reach out to your doctor or dermatologist to find the right solution for your skin. There is a light at the end of the tunnel!

Supporting British Skin Foundation research

The British Skin Foundation (BSF) funds important research into skin conditions like acne, helping to find cures and treatments. If we can support the BSF and their research, we will see more people able to live their lives fully.

It’s an amazing feeling of freedom now that I don’t have to constantly factor the condition of my skin into my life decisions. I finally feel comfortable in my own skin.

Yasmin Basan

Donate to research    BSF acne research

By donating to skin disease research you are helping us to find treatments and cures for common conditions like eczema, acne and psoriasis through to potential killers like melanoma skin cancer. Thank you.