When you're feeling down

A few weeks ago I was invited to a pool party. "Too bad I have acne on my back," I thought. "I have to wear a swimsuit and all those clear-skinned people will see it. Poor me!"

I came back from the party with a completely different perspective. You see, there was this girl there. She was friendly and talkative, one of those people that have so many interesting stories that they often become the center of attention. She shook everyone's hands with a smile and radiated happiness as she introduced her new husband of 33 days. I was truly inspired by her courage. Why?

First of all, she had serious acne scarring all over her face. We all know how awful that is.

Second of all, her legs were swollen to the size of tree trunks. No exaggeration. She was a short girl, just a little bit chubby, but her round and puffy legs were completely out of proportion. She wobbled around on marshmellow feet. Eventually she told us that it was the side effect of some chemotherapy.

She changed into a swimsuit and hobbled into the pool, laughing and joking with all the other guests. Suddenly I didn't feel so bad about the acne on my back.

Acne sucks and I know how miserable it is to go out with The Great Pyramid rising up on your chin. But whenever you're feeling sorry for yourself, remember the girl at my pool party. She had a lot more reasons than acne to stay indoors and cover herself up. But instead she chose to go out, meet people, have fun, make friends.

There's nothing stopping you from doing the same.

Change I can believe in.

Help me, Accutane. You're my only hope.

I'm 23 years old, female, and just started Accutane a few days ago. Up until now, I've probably taken every topical and oral acne medication that exists except Accutane. Ever since hitting puberty I've suffered from moderate cystic/nodular acne.

About a year ago, for reasons unknown to myself, my skin lurched uncontrollably into the severe cystic acne zone. I decided that no matter how miserable Accutane's side effects are, they can't be any worse than the emotional and physical misery I'm already going through.

For the first time since...a very long time, I feel hopeful. Like things might just change this time. Like maybe this will all finally be over, and I'll smile when I look in the mirror.

If you can give any encouragement or tips, I'd really appreciate it!

I plan on taking photos of my progress every two weeks. I've attached the first photo - this is pretty embarrassing! Agh my face!