'My acne doesn't define my value'

A student who has struggled with acne since she was a child has joined a national campaign to raise awareness of the issue.

Iqra Wasim, 21, from Fishponds, has had hormonal acne since she was 11 years old, caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

She is now part of a campaign highlighting the emotional impact of skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol's John Darvall, she said those with skin conditions should surround themselves with people who make them feel "safe as they are".

She said: "To anyone going through something similar, whether that be acne or eczema or any other skin condition, just be kind to yourself.

"Focus on how you feel, not how you look. Your skin doesn't define your value."

Ms Wasim, a psychology student at London Metropolitan University, said the acne started on her chest, back and face from the age of 11.

She said: "When it started to happen I was at such a vulnerable age - it's when people are already starting to feel uncomfortable in their bodies.

"My skin just ended up making me feel more isolated during a time when my mind and body was developing."

She was prescribed various medications, including antibiotics and creams, which had a varying degrees of success.

The student, who is now a spokesperson for youth-led charity Integrate UK, recently joined nine other people with skin conditions to share their experiences through a photography exhibition.

In April, Ms Wasim had photos taken of her lower face, neck, chest and back, showing her acne and scarring. The pictures were used in a London exhibition.

She said: "It was such an empowering moment for me because I've never been that confident before when I was growing up carrying so much of that.

"A big turning point for me was realising the pressure was just coming from within and I was the one holding myself back."

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