Faces of Ichthyosis: Elliot

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Elliot’s story highlights the resilience needed to live with ichthyosis and the challenges of daily skin care. He hopes people will look beyond his skin and better understand the impact of the condition.

I Am Elliot

I am Elliot, I am 32 years old, I live in London and I have Lamellar ichthyosis.

I describe myself as quiet, friendly, and loyal. I enjoy music, watching movies, and creative media work including advertising and marketing.

Something people might not expect about me is how loyal, caring, and supportive a friend I am.

Living With Ichthyosis

One of my biggest daily challenges is the constant application of creams. Managing my skin relies heavily on creams and emollients that are easy to apply and effective enough for everyday use.

A common misunderstanding is that people think ichthyosis is contagious through touch, which can make interactions difficult and isolating.

From the Beginning

From Elliot’s Mum, Pamelia:

Elliot was diagnosed at birth and had also arrived six weeks premature. Those early days felt incredibly daunting as we tried to understand the condition and learn how best to care for him.

What has helped Elliot thrive most has been constant care, support, and making sure he always knows he is loved and valued despite being different.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Experiences With Others

When I was younger, many people would ask what had happened to my skin. Some assumed it was eczema, while others thought I had been burned.

I would like people to understand that ichthyosis is not infectious and that a skin condition does not change who someone is as a person. Everyone deserves to feel valued and included in society.

Strength and Support

Living with ichthyosis has taught me the importance of patience, understanding, and perseverance and my biggest support is my mother, whose care and encouragement helps me throughout this journey.

Independence and Moving Forward

A major turning point for me was learning to live independently and take control of my own care and daily life. Building that independence gave me confidence and a greater sense of control over my future.

A Message From Me

If someone looks at my photo, I want them to know: I am somebody and I matter.

For anyone newly diagnosed, my message is:

You can go on to have a good life. Try new products, don’t give up, and remember that you are an important part of society.

My Message to Healthcare Professionals:

I would like healthcare professionals to better understand the financial burden of managing ichthyosis:
Many creams and emollients must be bought over the counter, making long-term skin care extremely expensive. More products should be available on prescription.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Photos from the Faces of Ichthyosis photoshoot, kindly funded by the British Association of Dermatologists.