“It’s a kind of double-edged sword”: exploring the social media-related experiences of adults with visible differences using photo-elicitation interviews

Adults with visible differences face similar appearance pressures on social media to the general population; however, the visible nature of their condition makes it more difficult for them to adhere to these norms. However, some had learned to use social media in a positive way to develop confidence and it provided a space to connect and gain advice from experts by experience. Participants felt that social media was a platform to increase representation of visible differences and normalise conditions; yet they acknowledged that balancing authenticity with content that received the most favourable engagement was a challenge.