Who benefits from skin camouflage application?
Non-infectious skin conditions (dermatoses) and scars are the result of many and varied causes – rarely because someone has not taken care of their skin. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the UK the population have some form of dermatosis that could benefit from medical attention.*
Skin conditions can be devastating and psychologically damaging to men, women and children, irrespective of age, nationality and religion. However, we would not usually recommend skin camouflage for babies and young children unless at the request of their healthcare advisor.
Psychosocial inhibition is irrespective of whether the problem is immediately visible or hidden by clothing and hairstyle.
Unfortunately many people suffer in silence, often not consulting their healthcare professional because they believe their distress will be dismissed as a “cosmetic” problem.
However, studies show that anxiety levels are higher in those with a skin condition. Research confirms that up to a third of people report that they have suffered from psychological distress including;
- Rejection and isolation
- Unwarranted stares and comments
- Intrusive and inappropriate questioning
- Name-calling and verbal abuse
Although skin camouflage products cannot alter the structure of the skin, the immediate visual effect may help the person to regain self-esteem, which can do much to improve general health and assist in a return to normal social-sporting activities and employment.
*APPGS - The report on the enquiry into the impact of skin diseases on people's lives, London July 2003.
