Let’s talk about skin

Written by Chereen 

My skin has been a sensitive subject since I suddenly decided to break out as a young adult. I went from effortlessly clear skin, to full breakouts as a 19 year old. I would have been more okay with it had it not hurt so much. Little did I know, I was experiencing cystic acne that had a mind of its own.

I went through multiple trials and errors to see what would work best for my skin. Eventually, it calmed down but the cystic acne would occasionally come around to remind me that it still exists. Fast forward to the unexpected pandemic, I found myself getting overly stressed by the news and empathizing with those that were ill or losing loved ones. It was a lot to take in, and I know for a fact that I am not alone in this experience because it is a global struggle in so many different ways. That next day, I woke up to cystic acne. It was painful and brutal and absolutely annoying. It made me feel grateful to be in lockdown because I didn’t want anyone to see it. This time, I knew the process to take care of it and let time do its healing. It calmed down because I also calmed down, but then the process of wearing a mask while out in public also had its side effects. I don’t have a problem with wearing a mask and respect the regulations that are meant to keep us safe. But of course, my skin had a mind of its own. My chin began to look like a Jackson Pollock painting and I knew I needed to talk to a professional.

Cue Dr. Fatema Abbas at Al-Shefa Polyclinic. I’ve had my good and bad share of dermatologist experiences, and I found myself fascinated by her kindness and sincerity. She has a way of talking to patients in order to make them feel good about themselves, and her knowledge about skin is absolutely amazing. I also have to acknowledge her honesty because it’s so important to have a dermatologist that is honest with you about your results. Most importantly, Dr. Fatema makes you feel good in your skin. Your blemishes and skin struggles do not define you, and there is always hope that your skin will improve. This is something I learned upon instantly meeting Dr. Fatema and it made me feel a lot better. Aside from this, Al-Shefa Polyclinic is a welcoming center that is fully equipped to handle any of your needs or wants. Finding a clinic like Al-Shefa is a relief in so many ways, and having employees that are welcoming and kind makes it a memorable experience.

Your skin is important. Self-care is valuable. When you feel your best, it shows on the outside and empowers you to move forward positively. Sometimes you think about things such as improving your skin as wants when in reality they are needs that should be met when you are able to do so. You deserve to feel good about yourself.