For those suffering because of acne
About a month ago, a user posted a message saying they couldn’t stop crying because of how awful acne was making them feel and that they only wanted to hide at home. I thought I’d share part of what I replied trying to help this user, in case it can help someone else. We can do this! 💪🏻
“I hear you… I’ve spent the last half a year hiding at home, barely going out. I also felt uncomfortable wearing makeup, and I didn’t want people seeing me like this. And even alone, at home, I felt really uncomfortable in my own skin, just like you’re describing.
I started Accutane (10mg daily) 9 weeks ago, and things are a little bit better now (not great, but better). But I 100% get what you’re feeling, because I had the exact same feelings.
I also went through a phase where I didn’t even want to tell my friends about it. But little by little, I started opening up, and it felt so much better than continuing to hide it or making silly excuses not to go out. Now they know, and they’re there for me, understanding what I’m going through. Just imagine a friend in your situation - would you think it’s embarrassing? I don’t think so. You’d just want to support her. But we’re so much harder on ourselves.
As someone who’s gone through the exact same thing (and still is), I’ll share something: I live in a small town, and I don’t feel comfortable running into people I know in daylight, because I think they’ll just see my acne and scars. So I get around by bike everywhere - it makes it easier to avoid running into people 😂 I’d really recommend talking to a good friend or two about it, telling them how you feel. They’ll understand and support you, and most important, it will make you feel a little better.
Also, since you’re in this kind of “withdrawal” phase, I’d recommend trying to use this time for yourself - to make or learn things you probably wouldn’t have time for otherwise. Over the last few months I’ve read more books than ever, done 30 minutes of vinyasa yoga every day, and started learning piano - first months on my own, and I’ve been going to lessons every two weeks now. Tomorrow I’m starting French lessons too. This way, I force myself to go out, even if it’s just a five-minute bike ride to the teacher’s place. I’ve also started visiting a bookshop in town to browse books in person and ask the seller for recommendations - just enjoying the moment. I’m going today again and I’m actually looking forward to it. These people don’t know me, so I don’t feel as self-conscious around them.
I know how hard what you’re going through is. But things will get better, you’ll see. It’s a slow process - skin needs time to heal - but it will heal. We have to try to be kind to ourselves while going through something like this, instead of being our own worst judge. Talk to yourself the way you’d talk to your own daughter or little sister, with love and patience. And in the meantime, treat this “withdrawal” time as a retreat where you can nurture yourself.”