There’s something undeniably captivating about Cyndi Lauper – the iconic pop star whose infectious energy and whimsical persona have made her a beloved cultural icon. But behind the vibrant, carefree image lies a deeply personal struggle that Lauper has bravely confronted for over a decade: her battle with the chronic skin condition, psoriasis.
Lauper’s first symptoms of psoriasis emerged in 2010, initially manifesting as scalp irritation that she initially attributed to the frequent coloring of her hair. However, the episodes only worsened over time, causing intense physical discomfort and emotional distress for the award-winning musician.
“It looked like someone threw boiling water on me,” Lauper recounts, vividly describing the severe, scaly patches that covered her body during the worst flare-ups. Despite the debilitating nature of the condition, Lauper faced skepticism and misunderstanding from those around her, with some dismissing her symptoms as “just a rash.”
Determined to not let psoriasis define her, Lauper has fiercely advocated for greater awareness and understanding of the chronic skin condition. She has been vocal about her personal journey, sharing her struggles and the strategies she’s adopted to manage the disease.
“It’s not a bad thing to take care of yourself,” Lauper emphasizes, encouraging others living with psoriasis to prioritize self-care. From practicing reiki and meditation to finding solace in nature, the pop icon has learned to manage the stress that can trigger flare-ups.
Lauper’s resilience has been nothing short of inspiring. Even during her darkest moments, she has continued to channel her creativity and passion into her work. In the midst of a severe psoriasis episode, Lauper wrote the music and lyrics for the Broadway hit “Kinky Boots,” which went on to win a Tony Award for Best Original Score – a remarkable feat that made her the first woman to win the award alone in that category.
Lauper’s openness about her struggle with psoriasis has not only empowered her own journey but has also inspired countless others living with the condition. Through her podcast “PsO in the Know,” she provides a platform for celebrities, advocates, and everyday patients to share their stories and offer insights into navigating life with psoriasis.
Cyndi Lauper’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-acceptance, and the transformative impact of using one’s platform to uplift and empower others. Her unwavering spirit and determination to not let psoriasis define her have made her a true inspiration to all who face the challenges of chronic illness. As Lauper continues to embrace her authentic self and use her voice to advocate for greater understanding and support, she serves as a shining example of the extraordinary strength that can emerge from our most daunting struggles.
