A 19-year-old woman from West Sussex has shared her struggles with painful cystic acne that has impacted her life for years, leading to bullying at school and sleepless nights. Harriet Curtis first experienced severe acne breakouts at the age of 14, with red and irritated spots appearing on her face, chest, and back. The bullying she faced at school due to her acne left her feeling distraught.
Initially prescribed a contraceptive pill that cleared her skin for a few years, Harriet faced another flare-up last summer during the stress of her A-level exams. The most severe form of acne, cysts, left her in pain, unable to sleep on her side, and relying on heavy makeup to hide her spots. Despite trying various treatments, the cause of her recent clearer skin remained a mystery, frustrating her.
Harriet’s journey with acne has taken a toll on her self-esteem, leading her to layer on makeup daily and struggle with uncomfortable sleep due to her skin condition. A trip to South East Asia with friends provided relief as the hot climate seemed to improve her complexion. However, upon returning home, she faced minor breakouts, reigniting her anxiety about her acne worsening.
The young woman expressed empathy for others going through similar struggles, highlighting the emotional toll of dealing with uncontrollable skin issues. Harriet’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with acne, especially the severe and painful cystic type. Despite her ongoing battle with acne, Harriet remains hopeful and determined to find a solution that works for her skin.