Thanks to the rise of social media, we’re all bombarded with images of seemingly perfect-looking people; it seems as though the world has become even more shallow in how people are judged.
For those of us that don’t fit the stereotypical “perfect” mold, the world can seem very cruel, with complete strangers feeling it necessary to criticize someone based on their appearance on social media.
Karine de Souza knows this more than anyone. The Brazilian has spent her life covering her skin in SPF100 sunscreens – even when she’s inside her home – due to her rare skin condition.
The 33-year-old was diagnosed with Xeroderma Pigmentosum when she was three years old which means she is at high risk of skin cancer.
Her ”one-in-a-million” condition, which is incurable, means she is highly sensitive to UV rays as she lacks the ability to repair any damage the sun causes to her skin.
Just a few minutes in the sun can mean incredibly painful sunburn for her. Growing up, she was often isolated from the outside world because it was too dangerous for her to spend too much time outside her house.
“When I expose myself to the sun it doesn’t happen in the moment, I don’t feel anything. However, in the future, the lesions appear and need to be removed because of cancer,” she said.
Karine has had to endure 130 surgical procedures to remove lesions caused by the sun, including the removal of her lower lip and part of her nose.
Sadly, it is not only a physical battle she has to endure. Karine often gets stared at in the street and has been the victim of verbal abuse both within her community and online.
But despite her suffering, she remains upbeat and happy and has even found love.
She met her husband Edmilson through social media, who fell in love with her “story and her strength.” Edmilson has always stood by Karine’s side, and he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.
He also decided to embrace Karine’s three children from her previous relationship, which of course, meant a lot to Karine.
”He came and he showed me that I could live a true love story”, she says.
But after posting photos of them together online, Karine was once again exposed to a whole host of offensive comments.
”We have already read many offensive comments calling me a monster, deformed, a zombie,” Karine said.
Other comments suggested that their relationship wasn’t genuine and that Karine was a ”sugar mommy,” and that she must be very rich.
”Because of the fact he’s a young man and pretty, that caught people’s attention and they didn’t believe that he was with me because he really liked me,” Karine said.
A photographer who captured the couple after they got engaged posted a selection of the images online and wrote:
”In a world where appearance matters more than the feeling, they met not by chance, but by a gathering of souls, an encounter of acceptance and character and love emerged when their souls met and today you are the inspiration to so many people who do not believe in themselves, in life and especially in love.
“THANK YOU every day for being who you are. STOP complaining for being like you are. HUG LIFE, and accept yourself. Much gratitude for teaching me so much. You guys are AMAZING. You are the missing hope in so many people. Thank you for the big hug, and for the wonderful day we experienced together. I carry your smile with me forever.”
His heartfelt words and beautiful images he captured of Karine and Edmilson went viral, and thousands of people commented, congratulating the couple.
Karine wants others to realize the importance of being positive.
”Be happy, smile, because life happens only once,” she said.
In 2023, Karine and Edmílson welcomed a baby girl into the world, and they couldn’t be happier! Their daughter, Zaia, was long awaited – Karine and her husband had been trying for a baby since 2020.
Karine has been through so much but thanks to her positive attitude she has found the happiness she deserves.
Her story is inspirational so help us inspire others in similar situations by sharing this story with your friends and family.
The Best Collagen Boosting Secret You’ve Been Missing: Beetroot
Are you tired of spending a fortune on skincare products that promise youthful-looking skin? Look no further! We have a natural solution that will amaze you: beetroot! That’s right, this humble vegetable is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy skin, support collagen production, and fight signs of aging. Incorporating beetroot into your nightly routine can enhance your skin’s elasticity and give you a radiant complexion.
Why Beetroot?
Beetroot is a true powerhouse when it comes to skincare. It contains high levels of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis in your skin. Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm and smooth. Beetroot is also rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals, which contribute to wrinkles and aging.
Benefits of Beetroot for Skin:
- Boosts Collagen Production: The vitamin C in beetroot plays a vital role in collagen production, keeping your skin firm and youthful.
- Promotes Healthy Skin Glow: The antioxidants in beetroot improve blood circulation, giving your skin a natural glow and reducing dullness.
- Detoxifies the Skin: Beetroot helps flush out toxins, supporting clearer skin and reducing blemishes or breakouts.
- Prevents Premature Aging: With its powerful antioxidants, beetroot helps combat oxidative stress, protecting your skin from wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging.
Nightly Beetroot Recipes for Collagen Boost
1. Beetroot Smoothie for Skin Glow
If you want to enjoy the benefits of beetroot in a delicious way, try a nightly beetroot smoothie. It’s easy to make and packed with skin-loving nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 small beetroot (peeled and chopped)
- 1 apple (for natural sweetness)
- 1 small carrot (for added vitamins)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (rich in vitamin C)
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Drink this smoothie every night before bed for a collagen boost and a radiant complexion.
2. Beetroot Face Mask for Firm Skin
You can also harness the power of beetroot topically with this rejuvenating face mask. It helps tighten and firm your skin overnight.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of beetroot juice (from fresh beetroot)
- 1 tablespoon of honey (for hydration)
- 1 tablespoon of yogurt (rich in lactic acid for gentle exfoliation)
Instructions:
- Mix the beetroot juice, honey, and yogurt until you have a smooth paste.
- Apply the mask evenly to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
- Use this mask 2-3 times a week to improve skin elasticity and promote collagen production.
3. Beetroot Collagen-Boosting Night Drink
For an even more concentrated collagen boost, try this warm beetroot drink before bed.
Ingredients:
- 1 small beetroot (peeled and boiled)
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
- Blend the boiled beetroot with water until smooth.
- Add a teaspoon of honey and a splash of lemon juice for an extra vitamin C boost.
- Drink this warm beverage every night to support your skin from the inside out.
Conclusion
By incorporating beetroot into your nightly routine, whether through smoothies, face masks, or warm drinks, you can naturally boost collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Beetroot is a powerful ally in maintaining youthful, glowing skin. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the results!
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