Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Ibrahim’s story is one of confidence, family, and quiet determination - showing that with the right support, children with ichthyosis can thrive in their own way. 

I Am Ibrahim

I’m Ibrahim, I’m 13 years old, and from Ilford. I have Lamellar Ichthyosis.

If I had to describe myself, I’d say I’m smart, kind, and intellectual - and according to my siblings, also handsome and good at maths.

I love reading, playing basketball, and gaming. And something people might not expect about me? I’m really confident.

Playing, Pausing, Going Again

One of my biggest daily challenges comes when I’m doing the things I enjoy most. When I’m playing sports or games, I overheat quickly and have to take breaks because I don’t sweat.

What helps me manage it is simple: water - to cool down - and two baths a day to look after my skin. It’s just part of my routine, part of how I keep going.

First Impressions

Most people think my skin is eczema at first. Sometimes they ask questions, and once I or my parents explain, things usually go back to normal.

What I wish people understood is this: a child is not defined by a condition. There are so many opportunities for us to grow, succeed, and just be ourselves.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

Ibrahim's Parents' Perspective

From the Very Beginning 

When Ibrahim was born, we felt everything at once: joy, confusion, and deeply overwhelmed. He was our firstborn, yet in those first moments, we couldn’t even hold him. Over time, we found our way. What’s helped him thrive has been family support, good friendships, and the Ichthyosis Support Group - people who understand and stand alongside us.

Growing Strength

Living with ichthyosis has shown us that there will be challenging days and better ones - for both child and parent. As Ibrahim grows, new challenges appear, but so do new strengths. 

Our biggest support has always been family - grandparents and great grandmother.

One of the biggest turning points came from something simple: finding a moisturiser that works for him and he is comfortable with. And more than anything, watching him grow into the person he is today - amazing, kind, loving, kind hearted and full of potential.

We wish people understood that children like Ibrahim are capable of more than you might ever expect.

A Message to You

If you’re newly diagnosed or at the start of your journey with ichthyosis:

Our Final Message Is A Message to Healthcare Professionals:

Greater awareness and research into ichthyosis is needed - so everyone gets the understanding and care they deserve.

Photo credit: Graham Lucas Commons

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