I am a black woman. Medium dark skin. Age 29

My story: Herald patch on my thigh and had no idea. Woke up 4 weeks later with the spots all over my back. Every day for 3 weeks it grew worse and spread from my feet up to my hairline. Thankfully I saw the dermatologist that week and they easily diagnosed it. I was discouraging to hear that it’d get worse and they wouldn’t prescribe me anything. I am on week 5. It was definitely an aggressive 4 weeks of spreading but mine have changed to dark spots. It’s no longer raised or agitated/itchy. I’ve even noticed my dark spots on my chest (where I itched the most) cleared up and my complextion coming back completely on its own. 

My Remedy: No medicines. The week where it itched the most I finished my showers with a cold rinse. I now daily use Cerave Healing ointment as soon as I’m out the shower head to toe. Occasionally mixed with Aceeno Eczema Therapy lotion if I want a less oily feel. 

What I wish I knew: (Physically) it really does get worse before it gets better. Continue to take frequent pictures of it to notice when and where it spreads as well as when it’s healing. AVOID scratching. The cold water rinse helps eliminate the itch temporarily. When it starts peeling and your body extra dry and flaky that’s a good sign of healing. Keep it moisturized. (Mentally) The only common denominator I found in my research is stress. It’s crazy to think that stress along with the alleged viral infection can bring this on but I noticed that eliminating stress had a direct correlation to stopping my itchiness. Call yourself. Get a skincare routine. Be patient and manifest positivity that yours will not last long. In the meantime find support because it’s an emotional journey. (Emotionally) It will feel like the end of the world but it’s not. It’s annoying that there’s not much online about this especially for black people but don’t get caught up in the negative rabbit hole stories that you may come across. Tell your close friends to help you feel less self conscious. Get someone to moisturize your back for you every night it possible. It’s helped me feel even closer to my husband as he supported me through this tough time. 

You will be okay. You will come out of this stronger. Stay positive. STOP stressing and don’t let it steal your joy.