A nursing assistant with a facial birthmark (Becker's Nevus) overcame childhood bullying to become a confident advocate, inspiring others through her positive mindset and makeup videos.
A dark birthmark on her face is not a life burden. Nong Tay (Luksanaphon Chanthawong), a skilled nursing assistant, opens up about overcoming childhood bullying and transforming from crying daily and fearing to leave home into someone who enjoys life with renewed perspective.
Doctors diagnosed her condition as Becker's Nevus.
"I've had this birthmark since birth. When I consulted a dermatologist, they diagnosed it as Becker's Nevus, but different doctors give different explanations—some call it a mole, others a nevus. The mark is only on my face, it doesn't spread or expand, and there are no abnormal symptoms. However, if it ever spreads, expands, becomes painful or itchy, or develops abnormalities, I'll need further treatment as it could potentially turn into skin cancer. The eye on the side with the birthmark still functions normally, but vision isn't as sharp as the other side—it's slightly blurry, like being nearsighted. But I see normal colors. Some people ask if I see black, but I don't see black; the mark isn't deep. Different doctors gave conflicting treatment advice. Some say laser won't work and I'd need skin grafting surgery, while others say laser is possible but would require many sessions over a long period because the mark is quite large and dark. As for treatment, I have no plans right now because it doesn't affect my daily life, and I'm unsure if laser would improve or worsen my condition."
Childhood bullying left deep scars.
"I faced severe bullying—being called names, teased, and mocked for having a dark face. As a child, I had no coping skills. Due to my immaturity, I'd come home crying constantly, feeling resentful about being different from others.
I didn't dare socialize or approach new friends, fearing rejection or ridicule. Fortunately, my friends were kind and understanding. My grandparents always comforted and encouraged me, teaching me to be strong and stand up for myself. I'm grateful to my family for their unwavering support."
She once resented her differences.
"I felt deeply resentful, wondering why I was born this way and why I wasn't like others. Without the birthmark, I could have joined school activities, danced, been a cheerleader, and participated in beautiful events while dressed up like everyone else. I was hard on myself, but as time passed, I stopped dwelling on it. These days, negative comments are gone, and if they come, I just stand up for myself."
She found happiness by shifting her mindset.
"I'm happy doing my makeup and dressing beautifully. When I go out, I wear makeup on one side. I'm confident and don't feel inferior because I live a normal life like everyone else. When I post videos, people praise me and encourage me, becoming a positive force for those afraid to go out and lacking confidence.
Many people message me saying: 'Nong Tay, you're amazing. I'm worse off than you, but I don't have the courage to go out. I lack confidence.' Their messages boost my confidence. I want everyone to be confident in themselves. We're not different from others. I want everyone to dare to live and be happy. Those people are just passing through our lives for a moment.
We can't control others' words or looks. Don't diminish your own value because of what others say."