Yulianna Yussef had it tough growing up in the Ukraine. The little girl was constantly teased, called a cow and dalmatian because of all the spots covering her face, arms, legs, and torso. Yussef was born with congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN). This condition happens because of a mutation of cells during utero. It occurs in one percent of the population. The 22-year-old, however, does not hide from her moles. Instead, she has set up her own Instagram account with the hashtag #bareyourbirthmarks. With over 22,000 followers and counting, Yussef, hopes that by showing herself to the world people will be more accepting and kind. The former photographer who now lives in Warsaw, Poland, is proud that her mom never gave up on her despite the fact that doctors believed she would not survive past a couple of hours after birth. Her brave posts have given encouragement to others who are living with similar skin conditions.
