Woman who hid skin condition now embraces it in lingerie – and says ‘this is who I am’
A woman with a skin condition refuses to hide away anymore.
Claire Spurgin used to cover up the red patches that flare up as a result of her psoriasis – but after spending years masking the blemishes with clothes, the Essex-based influencer has embraced them.
Following a recent psoriasis flare up, she proudly showcased her skin in a green lingerie set.
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Claire posted the pictures on Instagram with an empowering message: “The return. The itch when your psoriasis comes back drives you mad.
“It’s a reminder psoriasis is a lifelong autoimmune skin condition and your body is in control.”
(Image: instagram.com/claires__psoriasis)
While treatment can help to alleviate symptoms, Claire knows psoriasis will be something that continues to impact her.
So instead of letting it rule her life, she’s accepting of the skin she’s in.
The 25-year-old defiantly said: “No matter what creams and diets I try or what treatments I have, this is who I am.
“My immune system will always trigger the overproduction of skin cells.”
Claire’s post garnered more than 3,500 likes – and many appreciated her body positive message.
(Image: instagram.com/claires__psoriasis)
(Image: claires__psoriasis/Instagram)
One responder said: “You are such a strong soul.”
Another wrote: “Proud of you girl. Keep inspiring and keep growing.”
A third commented: “Thank you for sharing – I also suffer from psoriasis and it’s crazy how much it can change daily.
“In tough moments I always remind myself the flare up is only temporary.”
And a fourth added: “You’re incredible.”
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(Image: claires__psoriasis/Instagram)
Claire, who was diagnosed with psoriasis in 2017, spoke to the Daily Star about her journey last year.
She said: “When I first got it I was definitely self-conscious. I was 19 and you worry about your appearance a lot more at that age…
“You could have the psoriasis gene in your body but you might not have psoriasis until it’s triggered.
“I had sunburn on my shoulders and that was the trigger of my psoriasis, the sunburn never healed, my shoulders just got a lot dryer and then I had the other dots that appeared on my body. Then it kept spreading and spreading.”
Thankfully, the junior sommelier turned influencer, has made peace with her autoimmune condition.
She inspires thousands with her posts – and seeks comfort in others with psoriasis too.
She added: “When I made this Instagram, I felt like I wasn’t hiding anymore.
“It’s taken me years to accept my skin and to not be petrified to wear a bikini at the beach. I was in constant fear someone would point at me… and they would!!
“I was shocked at how many people would openly ask ‘what’s wrong with you?’ At that time I was so embarrassed but now, I understand they were just unaware and curious”.
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