“Harlequin Ichthyosis, and the daily challenges we conquer.” – Amy and Poppy’s story.
Amy shares the daily challenges that her daughter Poppy navigates with Harlequin ichthyosis. Despite these challenges, Poppy embraces life with joy.
Real stories
Read or listen to real stories from people affected by visible difference, their parents and families, as well as Changing Faces staff and volunteers. Inspired to share your story? We’d love to hear it – share your story now.
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Shae’s story: “Meeting other people with a visible difference was so helpful”
Shae’s mental health has been impacted by her skin condition. Meeting other people with a visible difference has given her the support she needed.
Harriet’s story: “My worth is not tied to how my skin looks on any given day.”
Harriet shares her journey with eczema and topical steroid withdrawal, advocating for better understanding and support for those with chronic skin conditions.
Anthony’s story: “Invisibility is a privilege”
Anthony reflects on the complexities of visibility for trans and non-binary people and how having a visible difference has also helped her find pride in her uniqueness.
Anthony Lexa: “The older I get, the more people surprise me.”
This Valentine’s Day, Anthony shares her recent experiences of dating with a visible difference.
Mary’s story: “It’s time to end the shame of skin conditions”
People have treated Mary poorly throughout her life because of her skin condition. She believes society must change to enable people like her to live peacefully.
Joti’s story: “I’m now able to stand strong in my skin”
Developing vitiligo caused Joti to hide her skin for 20 years. Now she’s in a place where she can embrace her condition and speak out.
Rowan’s story: “We need to challenge unconscious judgements”
Rowan has experienced unwanted advice and unkind comments because of her acne. Now she wants to deconstruct the biases that people often have around the condition.
Anthony Lexa: “Beauty isn’t skin deep.”
Anthony Lexa, best known for playing Abbi on Sex Education, opens up about her journey with Topical Steroid Withdrawal. Inspired by her healing, she’s launched a merchandise line, with proceeds supporting Changing Faces.
Reuben’s story: “Embrace Your Uniqueness”
Reuben, a model and advocate with vitiligo, shares his journey of embracing his skin condition and using it to promote diversity, equity, and mental health awareness.
Rhiannon’s story: “Prioritise your mental health at work”
Rhiannon shares how her visible difference has affected her mental health, in early life and in work.
Olivia’s story: “There’s lots of stigma around acne.”
Despite bullying and negative comments about her acne at school, 18-year-old Olivia has found acceptance of her visible difference.