The star of *The Kardashians* was diagnosed with a skin condition back in 2011. Getty Images
Kim Kardashian recently shared the intense challenges she faces with psoriasis, a skin condition she was diagnosed with back in 2011. Known for her glamorous lifestyle, Kim revealed that this condition has often disrupted her life, especially during high-profile events.
In a candid chat on the SHE MD podcast, Kim recounted a painful flare-up she experienced right before the Met Gala. While she didn’t specify the year, she described the discomfort as a burning sensation, particularly alarming since the flare-up was located near her eye. With the prestigious event looming, Kim admitted to feeling "a little bit desperate" for solutions and resorted to various home remedies to calm her skin.
Reflecting on the stressful moments leading up to that time, Kim acknowledged that her busy life might have contributed to her flare-up, hinting at some underlying pressures she was facing. Psoriasis is characterized by itchy, scaly patches, typically appearing on areas like the knees, elbows, and scalp, making her struggle all the more relatable.
Kim described her psoriasis flare-up as feeling like it was "burning" her face. Getty Images
Despite her glamorous facade, Kim has been very open about the physical and emotional toll psoriasis has taken on her. In 2019, she wrote a heartfelt essay on her sister Kourtney's Poosh website, detailing her experiences with the condition. She shared a particularly tough moment when her psoriasis left her unable to even pick up her phone or a toothbrush. After pregnancies when her symptoms eased, they returned with a vengeance, affecting her hands and overall comfort.
To manage her condition, Kim has made significant lifestyle changes. She focuses on eating healthy, often opting for a plant-based diet and incorporating sea moss smoothies into her routine. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of self-care and minimizing stress to keep her flare-ups at bay.
Kim experiences psoriasis on various parts of her body. Getty Images
When it comes to how her skin looks, Kim admitted to feeling insecure at times. However, she stressed that there’s nothing wrong with covering up the condition with makeup if it helps her feel more comfortable. "Sometimes I show it off, and other times I don’t want it to be a distraction," she explained, highlighting the balance many people with visible skin conditions try to strike.
Kim also addressed her use of tanning beds, which has drawn criticism in the past. She clarified that the UVB rays from tanning beds provide relief during flare-ups and are part of her coping strategy. "It really helps when it's bad," she stated, reassuring fans that she doesn’t overuse them.
Overall, Kim's openness about her battle with psoriasis aims to inspire others facing similar struggles. She encourages those with the condition not to let it take over their lives, reminding them to find comfort in whatever way works best for them.
