Your Story Series: Felicity
Could you please share your experiences around being diagnosed with skin cancer, melanoma, or a skin condition? What diagnosis did you receive and how long ago?
I was diagnosed with Guttate psoriasis in 2012 during one of the most stressful times of my life. I have had a couple of spots on my belly or face almost my entire life but in 2012 and 2022 I had flare-ups that took over my whole body and required dermatologist intervention.
How has your relationship with the sun changed following your diagnosis?
Having extremely sensitive skin meant some fabrics and creams were incredibly irritating to me. This became problematic when it came to sun protection, as the medication I was taking to improve my psoriasis made me more sensitive to the sun. I've had to lean heavily on physical protection from UPF clothing when sunscreen would make my skin sting.
What does living a sun-safe life mean to you, and how has sun protection impacted your confidence or comfort when spending time outdoors?
Being sun-safe to me means being prepared and protected. Being in the open sun without physical protection now feels like being so exposed and uncomfortable. Knowing that my head, face, ears, neck, shoulders and arms are protected makes me feel so much more confident to spend hours outside with my kids without the thought of changing our plans to find shelter on a sunny day, or constant reapplication of sunscreen being an ever present thought in my already high-functioning mum brain.
Have you worn any Solbari products? If so, what is your favourite Solbari product and why?
The Stripe Long Sleeve T-Shirt is one of my favourites, it is so soft and comfortable and just works with my current Mum-fit wardrobe. It does not irritate the psoriasis I still have on my arms at all. I have been loving pairing it with the Everlight Loose Fit Jacket which has become my new kayaking uniform. It gives me so much confidence knowing my arms are protected when I am out in the open on the river. It is also airy and breathable so I don't overheat.
What advice would you give to someone who hasn’t yet embraced sun protection in their routine?
Habit stack. I keep my sunscreen and my hat in my bathroom because the last thing I used to do was brush my teeth before I left the house. Now, I put on my sunscreen, brush my teeth, pop on my hat and leave the house. Having products that I love and feel good on my skin also make the task far more enjoyable.
