Relationships and Intimacy
Many studies indicate that living with a skin condition can have an effect on the development and maintenance of intimate relationships. The literature demonstrates that living with a visible difference (whether it is a skin condition or not) is interpersonal - it doesn't just impact the individual but also their relationships with (potential) partners.
There are a number of issues raised in the literature on skin conditions and intimacy; such as the challenge of discussing the condition with a (potential) partner, the impact of spending a lot of time, money and thought on surgery, treatment and recurrent appointments, the effect feeling negative about an aspect of your body can have on levels of intimacy with a partner etc.
Of course, not everyone with a visible difference will experience difficulties with regards to romantic/intimate relationships, however, some of you may be able to relate to the issues in the above paragraph.
Concerns about intimacy/relationships are important and should be taken seriously and addressed. You may have general questions about intimacy or quite specific, practical concerns. It can sometimes be hard to raise these concerns with your peers/family. For example, a person with a disfigurement which affects the shape of their lips may have very specific questions about kissing. Others may have concerns about passing on their condition to their children. All these concerns are legitimate and important. Medical professionals should take your concerns about intimacy seriously and should not mind answering any questions you may have.