In the fast-paced world of modeling, where flawless skin is often seen as a prerequisite for success, Filipina model Marga Cortez is redefining what it means to be confident in your own skin. Despite battling eczema, a condition that can be unpredictable and challenging to manage, Marga has forged a path in the competitive industry, using her experience to inspire others facing similar struggles.
The Challenge of Eczema: A Lifelong Battle
For Marga, eczema is not a recent issue—it’s been a part of her life since she was 12 years old. “I first noticed it during summer volleyball training when my right palm became itchy from exposure to dust and dirt,” she recalls. Over the years, the condition has persisted, flaring up on her neck, underarms, and occasionally her face, often triggered by certain foods.
Now, 13 years later, Marga has learned to manage her flare-ups, which are typically localized, and she doesn’t let the condition define her. “It’s not as bad as people might think,” she says confidently. “It’s spreading a bit, but I’m good at handling it.” With her skin always under scrutiny during photoshoots, she’s had to develop strategies to manage eczema both physically and mentally.
Navigating the Industry with Eczema
The modeling industry demands constant attention to appearance, with close-up shots leaving no room for imperfections. Yet Marga has found ways to manage her eczema without letting it disrupt her career. While flare-ups can be hidden during shoots, she still takes careful measures to prevent and manage them. “Most of the time, my eczema is on my right palm, so it’s easy to cover up during shoots,” she explains. “But I’m always conscious of keeping it in check.”
One of Marga’s key strategies is dietary management. “The biggest factor in controlling my eczema is avoiding trigger foods, like gluten and dairy,” she reveals. After discovering that these foods were causing flare-ups, she made a conscious decision to eliminate them from her diet, a decision that requires significant self-discipline. “Avoiding cheese and fresh pasta is hard, but it’s worth it for the sake of my skin.”
Proactive Treatment and Skin Care
In addition to dietary changes, Marga has a go-to regimen for when a flare-up strikes. “When I do get irritated, I rely on Claritin or any antihistamine to reduce the reaction, and I use Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream to soothe the redness and itching,” she says. For Marga, these products are her lifesavers during flare-ups, especially before important shoots.
If she senses a flare-up approaching, she takes a proactive approach to minimize the damage. “Before bed, I apply castor oil to the affected areas. It calms the flare-up overnight and reduces the irritation by morning,” she shares.
Mental Health and Stress Management
Managing eczema is not just about what you eat or apply to your skin—it’s also a mental game. Marga acknowledges that stress can exacerbate her condition, a common experience for anyone with skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, or hives. “Stress definitely worsens eczema,” she admits. “The modeling industry can be filled with pressure and negativity, but I’ve learned to stay calm and not get involved in things that don’t concern me.”
To keep stress at bay, Marga practices mindfulness and prioritizes relaxation. “I schedule regular massages to help relieve tension and stay grounded,” she says. By staying mentally focused and stress-free, she’s able to maintain control over her eczema and keep her career on track.
Advice for Aspiring Models
Marga’s career journey serves as a reminder that success doesn’t have to be defined by skin conditions or societal standards of beauty. Despite the challenges she faces, she has built an impressive portfolio as a model, representing top agencies like the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP) and Viva Artists Agency. She has worked with renowned designers such as Sassa Jimenez and Martin Bautista, proving that skin struggles don’t have to stand in the way of success.
For those facing similar challenges, Marga offers simple yet profound advice: “Prioritize your health and keep pursuing your dreams.” Her own story is a testament to the fact that perseverance and self-care can overcome even the most unpredictable conditions.
Breaking the Mold
In an industry where perfection is often expected, Marga Cortez’s journey challenges traditional notions of beauty. Far from letting her eczema hold her back, she uses her experience as a source of strength. As she continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be beautiful in the modeling world, Marga’s story reminds us that true beauty is found in confidence, resilience, and embracing what makes us unique.
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