LYDIA | THE SCARS PROJECT

The stunning Lydia features in 'The Scars Project' by photographer Brock Elmbank.

A photo series that focuses on individuals celebrating their unique beauty.

Scroll down for the full story & more images.

"The scar on my forehead is what remains of a haemangioma (strawberry mark). It was originally a bright red birthmark that was quite raised.

As I got older it flattened out and lightened into a flesh-coloured scar.

From a young age my mum chose a hairstyle with a fringe for me, that would cover the birthmark. This was to protect me and reduce the number of times schoolchildren would ask ‘what’s that?’. Of course, I was sometimes still asked about it and feeling self-conscious I would quickly reply that it was just a birthmark."

"By 14 I had outgrown the fringe hairstyle and decided to get rid of it,

meaning the scar was then completely on show. Luckily, at this older age people at school rarely mentioned it or felt no need to comment, so I was confident without the hairstyle. I was also less bothered by people asking questions and often forgot about the scar until pointed out."

"Now at 20, living with alopecia means I have no hair to hide behind! The loss of my hair and eyebrows has put more focus onto my facial features and scar. I think my scar makes my face look unique and I am glad it is part of me."