Remi's Skin Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Finding a Positive Mindset

Today we’re excited to introduce Remi, who has been bravely fighting her skin issues, from eczema to the challenges of Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). Remi’s journey highlights the struggles many face when managing eczema and the painful symptoms that can come with TSW. We hope her story helps you understand and empathise with those dealing with similar skin challenges!

Remi's Life Timeline: Facing Skin Problems

@remi.tswjourney: I was diagnosed with eczema when I was about 10 months old, so it has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. For over two decades, I relied on topical steroids to manage the condition, but in November 2021, I made the decision to taper off the steroids and fully came off it in March 2022. This marked the start of my Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) journey, and it’s when I began experiencing the severe symptoms of TSW.

I remember how hard it was for me to endure the overwhelming physical pain and the draining mental & emotional battle. It is an experience I never want to experience again.

What I’ve Learned

@remi.tswjourney: One of the biggest realisations I’ve had through this experience is how easy it is for doctors to prescribe corticosteroids without warning patients about the long-term side effects. For two decades, I saw countless dermatologists, and not one of them mentioned how harmful these medications could be over time. This has taught me to be more cautious and to always research before using any medication. As a baby, I didn’t have that choice, but going forward, I definitely will - for myself and for my future children.

TSW also showed me the value of true relationships. The people who stayed in my life during my toughest times, when I didn’t look or feel like myself, are the ones who truly care. 

Advice for Anyone Going through Similar Conditions

@remi.tswjourney: If I could offer advice to anyone dealing with skin problems, it would be to avoid an all-or-nothing mindset. In the beginning, I was terrified of medications after what corticosteroids did to me, so I went completely natural. I believed that if I stopped using steroids and relied on a healthy lifestyle and natural remedies, my skin would heal. But that wasn’t realistic - my skin had been dependent on steroids for over 20 years, and it didn’t know how to regulate itself without them.

At that moment my dad stepped in with some much-needed wisdom that my mindset shifted. He reminded me that just like how humans need water to survive, some people need medication, and that’s okay. This insight led me to embrace a balanced approach between natural remedies and safe treatments, such as a steroid-free biological medication, suited to my skin condition. I believe exploring suitable options for managing skin health is an important part of this journey, helping me move away from an all-or-nothing mindset. My hope is to come off it completely in the future.