Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Daniel’s story is one of courage, honesty, and self-belief - showing that even in the face of misunderstanding, you can still choose to live life your own way. 

I am Daniel, I am 13, and I live with Lamellar Ichthyosis.

If I had to describe myself, I’d say I’m funny, kind, and courageous. I love football, gaming, sports, board games, spending time with my friends and siblings - and annoying my parents.

What people might not expect is this: I’m actually really nice. Sometimes people think I'm not nice because of how I look.

Living My Life

One of the hardest parts of living with ichthyosis is discrimination. People don’t always understand. Some people don’t want to touch me, or they do touch me, with that 'thing', then try to touch others - like it’s a bad thing or contagious.

But the truth is: it’s not bad, you don't have to get grossed out about it - it’s just my skin.

To manage it, I stick to my routine - creaming and bathing - it’s just part of my everyday life.

From the Beginning

From my mum:

Daniel was born six weeks early as a collodion baby. At the time, the hospital had very little experience with the condition, so we had to do our own research and quickly learn how to care for him and his skin.

We connected with the Ichthyosis Support Group within days, and the information we accessed through them made a huge difference. It gave us confidence, guidance, and most importantly, the awareness that we weren’t alone.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Finding His People

From my mum:

One of the biggest things that has helped Daniel thrive is getting to know other children and adults through the Ichthyosis Support Group. Camps and Family Days have been incredible and he’s made real friendships, and found a place where he can completely be himself.

Those moments are truly the highlight of our year.

Strength and Perspective

Living with ichthyosis has taught me that even if you have different needs, you just try your best. Don’t listen to discrimination. Live the life you want. My biggest support has been my family and the Ichthyosis Support Group - they always have my back.

Growing Confidence

Starting secondary school was a big turning point for me. More people especially friends and teachers - understand how difficult it is and don’t care that I’m different. That’s made a huge difference.

A Message From Me

If you look at my photo, I want you to know this: No one is the same and people like me exist, just like everyone else.

And if you’re newly diagnosed:

My Message to Healthcare Professionals:

It takes a lot of hard work to look after ichthyosis - it’s not easy, and people put in more effort than you might realise.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

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