Hi, my name is Erin and I’m 18 years old.
For years I’ve told myself that if I looked better, people would like me better, that I would like me better. I’ve gone months without eating, and months where I told myself I didn’t care and ate everything in sight. I’ve dieted, exercised, gave up, and hated myself for it.
I spent years coating my face in makeup because I was too afraid to show my real face. Without makeup, I panicked, cried and hid my face. I preferred to be thought of as “that girl with the cool makeup” than “the bland girl with the ugly face, and the fat body.”
I’ve been through many ups and downs in my life and my self esteem has suffered for it. But I’m trying now. I am eating better and exercising more. Not just to lose the weight, but to know that I’m treating my body the way I know I deserve to be treated.
So this is me, makeup free. As natural as it gets. And though I’m not thrilled about it, I am understanding and accepting. I’m finally realizing that there is much, much more to me than my physical appearance.
To all the people out there who are brave enough to share their stories and photos, thank you. You’re all incredibly inspiring and beautiful.
