The Prevalence of Skin Conditions in the UK
In the UK, approximately half of the adult population suffers from a skin condition each year. This translates to around 35 million people who are currently affected. Furthermore, 27 million of these individuals, or 76%, report feeling more anxious about their skin condition as the weather warms up. The heightened visibility of skin during warmer months can exacerbate these feelings of insecurity.
Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health
Social media platforms have become notorious for their unrealistic beauty standards, often showcasing flawless complexions and making users feel inadequate. Miriam Martinez Callejas, co-founder and superintendent pharmacist at Roseway Labs, emphasizes the need for more research into the psychological effects of social media on its users. She notes that a quarter of UK adults with a skin condition compare themselves to people they see online, highlighting the potential for social media to have a profound impact on self-perception, particularly among young women.
- 79% of individuals with a skin condition report that GP-prescribed or over-the-counter treatments have not been effective for them.
- A study by Roseway Labs found that an increasing number of people are turning to alternative methods to treat long-standing skin conditions, including off-the-shelf options that may have adverse side effects.
A Personal Story: Kirsty’s Journey with DSAP
Kirsty Robertson, a 49-year-old social worker from Glasgow, shares her personal experience with DSAP, a skin condition that heightens sensitivity to UV light and causes multiple dry, scaly rings, mostly on her arms and legs. “DSAP has impacted my life and mental health,” Kirsty says. “As a result, I would avoid going on sunny holidays and cover up extensively to protect my skin. Social media often portrays images of perfect skin, which has influenced what I wish I could have – flawless skin. However, I discovered a DSAP patient support group on Facebook and learned about a compounding pharmacy that had helped some patients. This led me to explore alternative treatments, including a cream called 2/2, which has been a game-changer for me.”
| Key Points | Description |
| Treatment Options | A combination of 2% of two medical ingredients, specifically 2/2 cream, has been effective in clearing up Kirsty’s skin. |
| Alternative Methods | Some individuals with skin conditions are turning to alternative treatments, including off-the-shelf options that may have adverse side effects. |
Breaking the Silence: Finding Support and Treatment
Kirsty’s experience highlights the importance of seeking support and exploring alternative treatment options. Her advice to those living with a skin condition is to not give up if you haven’t found something that works and to look for treatments not readily available from your GP. Joining support groups with others who share similar experiences can also be beneficial in managing the emotional and psychological impact of a skin condition.
“Don’t give up if you haven’t found something that works,” Kirsty emphasizes. “Look for treatments not readily available from your GP. And join support groups with others that know what you’re going through.”
For more information on personalized medicine from Roseway Labs, visit rosewaylabs.com or speak to your healthcare professional.