Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin. It causes skin cells to rapidly multiply, up to 10 times faster than normal. This rapid turnover leads to a buildup of cells on the surface of the skin, forming the red, scaly patches characteristic of psoriasis.
I interviewed lifestyle influencer Michelle Lee to discuss her journey with plaque psoriasis and the emotional and physical impact skin conditions like plaque psoriasis have on people.
Posh Beauty Blog: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as a lifestyle influencer?
Michelle Lee: My journey as a lifestyle influencer began during the Vine era, where I initially joined some friends and neighbors in creating viral videos. This experience ignited my passion for content creation and connecting with audiences. It also taught me the importance of networking and building your community! As I gained traction and a platform, I realized I wanted to do more than just entertain—I wanted to share my interests and passions with others.
Transitioning into a lifestyle influencer, I started diversifying my content to include recommendations on restaurants, clothing brands, skincare, makeup, hair tips, and more. I found joy in curating content that not only entertained but also provided value and inspiration to my followers.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in content creation, storytelling, and building authentic connections with my audience. I strive to be genuine and transparent in my recommendations, only promoting products and brands that align with my values and that I genuinely believe in.
Through dedication, creativity, and a genuine desire to connect with others, I've been able to carve out a niche for myself in the ever-evolving world of social media influencing. I'm grateful for the opportunities it has provided me to share my passions, inspire others, and create meaningful connections along the way.
Posh Beauty Blog: Can you share when you were first diagnosed with plaque psoriasis? What were the initial signs and symptoms you experienced?
Michelle Lee: I first noticed the red, itchy plaques back in 2018 and they spread rapidly, or, at least, that’s how it felt to me at the moment. I went to Urgent Care thinking it was an allergic reaction. They gave me prescription allergy cream and said I would be fine, but it ended up making things worse. After seeing three different physicians and receiving three incorrect diagnoses', I felt alone and afraid with only “google” to answer my questions - which led me to spiraling. I felt like doctors were dismissive. Before the correct diagnosis, I was prescribed different treatments and rushed out. However, I finally found someone to take my condition seriously and do a biopsy, which then led to the correct diagnosis of plaque psoriasis.
From there, instead of feeling a sense of relief, another journey began to find the right treatment plan for me. After a few years of using treatments that didn’t react well to my body, I finally started using non-steroid topical, VTAMA cream, 1%, last year, which has provided me with the relief I've been looking for.
Posh Beauty Blog: How did the diagnosis of plaque psoriasis impact your life emotionally and mentally?
Michelle Lee: It’s an emotional journey. On the one hand, you finally have a diagnosis, but on the other hand, you must learn to manage a serious and lifelong condition. I was glad to have an answer, but it was still hard to accept that I have this condition with no cure. It was an emotional moment when I had to accept that this was my reality that would be a challenge for the rest of my life – affecting the clothes I wear, how I interact with others, and even how I approach dating.
Posh Beauty Blog: Did you experience any challenges with self-esteem or body image due to your psoriasis?
Michelle Lee: When I developed plaque psoriasis it wasn’t long before I began comparing myself to everyone around me. I have an identical twin sister and would often compare myself to her. I stopped going out and distanced myself from my friends. I hated myself. It was a really challenging time for me. Eventually I realized that I was inflicting this pain on myself. When I learned to love myself again, including the plaques, things started to get better.
Confidence is still a constant battle — one that I move back and forth between — where there were times it took months to get me out of my room, and other instances where my girlfriends and family were hyping me up to own my flares. Over time, I’ve practiced self-love and overcome the initial challenge that is self-acceptance of your diagnosis.
Posh Beauty Blog: Beyond the emotional impact, how does plaque psoriasis affect your daily life physically?
Michelle Lee: I remember being afraid of taking my lingerie off for fear of turning my partner off in the bedroom. I would use oils and creams to try to help my flaking skin, but it all made my symptoms worse. After going through a vigorous process to be cast on a reality dating show, I was ghosted after sending an update of my plaque psoriasis flare, days before taking off. A blessing in disguise, shortly after I met the love of my life. I was experiencing a pretty bad flare at that time, and it was something we talked about very quickly. I’ve had difficulties finding the right treatment for me, but being honest and helping educate my partner has helped my overall sense of confidence. I joined Dermavant Sciences Touch Deprivation campaign because I have experienced firsthand the profound impact plaque psoriasis can have on a person’s day-to-day life. I hope to empower other people to advocate for their health if they aren't getting the results or treatment they’re looking for.
Posh Beauty Blog: Can you walk us through your typical skincare routine or any management techniques you've found helpful?
Michelle Lee: After a few years of trial and error, I've learned to keep my skincare routine simple. I start my day by washing my face and using a gentle toner. At night, I apply my prescription to spot treat any plaque psoriasis flare-ups. I treat my skin once a day with VTAMA cream because it’s non-steroidal, light, non-greasy and is easy to use. After starting treatment, I saw my skin improve within a month and it has continued to improve since then.
Posh Beauty Blog: Psoriasis can sometimes flare up due to stress. How do you manage stress in your life, and how does it impact your skin condition?
Michelle Lee: I do yoga, meditation, and take walks outside regularly to take care of my mind and body. Mat pilates and moving my body truly helps in all ways. Stress can cause my condition to flare, which can lead to more stress, but I can manage these flares by taking care of myself.
Posh Beauty Blog: What are some common misconceptions people have about plaque psoriasis?
Michelle Lee: Because plaque psoriasis is such a visible condition, a lot of people jump to conclusions. Some people see a rash and assume that it is something contagious. They might see flakes and think that a person is unhygienic, especially if the flakes are in the scalp, which is a common place to find psoriasis. This is especially difficult when it comes to intimacy in personal and romantic relationships.
Posh Beauty Blog: Why do you think it's important for people with skin conditions to share their stories openly?
Michelle Lee: When I was struggling to come to terms with my plaque psoriasis, I found a lot of comfort in the online plaque psoriasis community because it reminded me that I was not alone. When people tell their stories it helps others in the same situation feel less alone. Story sharing can also help destigmatize plaque psoriasis and debunk some of the misconceptions surrounding the condition.
I want to use my platform to help foster community support and share resources and information that will help others navigate their journey with greater ease and confidence. People can follow my plaque psoriasis journey on Instagram @myspottedskin.
Posh Beauty Blog: What advice would you give to someone who has recently been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis or any other chronic skin condition?
Michelle Lee: I want people with plaque psoriasis to feel empowered to take control of their health and well-being and build the resilience and confidence they need to overcome the challenges associated with plaque psoriasis so that they can lead happier, healthier lives. Patients with plaque psoriasis should consult their healthcare provider to find the treatment plan that works for them and be persistent in finding the right treatment. Everyone is at a different stage in their diagnosis and treatment journey. The constant ups and downs associated with having plaque psoriasis can take a toll on patients' physical and mental wellbeing. It’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another. For those interested in learning more about the treatment that has worked for me, I encourage them to ask their healthcare provider or visit VTAMA.com.
Posh Beauty Blog: As a lifestyle influencer, how do you approach incorporating your experiences with psoriasis into your content? Do you find there's a lack of representation for people with skin conditions in the influencer space?
Michelle Lee: I would like to create a space where talking about the physical and emotional challenges associated with intimacy is more common. Many people with plaque psoriasis are uncomfortable talking with their healthcare providers, partners, and family members about the challenges they face. This discomfort may lead to a trickle-down effect of fear of engaging in intimacy, initiating touch, and even missing out on social events. Through trial and error over the years, I’ve learned what works for me — and I understand that everyone is at a different point in their treatment journey — but if I can help even one person with my story, that’s rewarding enough.
Posh Beauty Blog: How can social media platforms be a more inclusive space for those living with chronic skin conditions?
Michelle Lee: Social media holds a lot of power in today’s world. People repeat and retain everything they see, which is why it is essential for content creators to be conscious of what they are posting. By posting pictures in bikinis, gowns, shorts, etc., creators with skin conditions show others that they are confident through the imperfections.
