DEAR HARRIETTE: I’m a 28-year-old woman, and up until this year, I’ve never had any serious issues with my skin.
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However, seemingly out of nowhere, I developed cystic acne this year. I’ve become self-conscious, to the point where I sometimes dread going out in public or even seeing friends and family.
What’s made this even harder to cope with is the way my mother-in-law has been treating me. She’s always been somewhat critical, but ever since my skin started breaking out, she’s been downright rude. She constantly makes snide remarks and unwelcome comments about how bad my skin looks now. She’ll say things like, “What happened to your face?” or, “You should really do something about those breakouts.”
It’s humiliating and hurtful, especially when she says these things in front of other people.
I’ve tried to brush it off or change the subject when she brings it up, but her comments have only become more frequent and harsh.
How do I handle this situation with my mother-in-law? I want to stand up for myself and set boundaries, but I’m worried about how that might affect our relationship and my husband’s relationship with his mother.
— Bad Skin, Tender Heart
DEAR BAD SKIN, TENDER HEART: Start by going to a dermatologist to learn how to care for your skin in its current condition. You might also get a complete physical to learn what other factors may be contributing to this dramatic change in your skin’s health.
With insight and information from medical professionals, you will feel better able to care for yourself and to share what’s going on with your mother-in-law, if you so choose.
Talk to your husband first. Obviously, he sees what’s going on with your skin. Tell him what you are learning about skincare. Also tell him about how his mother’s comments make you feel. Ask him to support you in getting her to back off.
Next, go to her and tell her what you have learned about your skin. Tell her you are dealing with it and that …read more
Source:: The Mercury News – Entertainment
