Cyndi Lauper, celebrated for her distinctive style and undeniable talent, has long held a legendary place in music. Known for her vibrant outfits and bold use of color, she’s been an inspiration to stars like Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish, as well as to countless fans captivated by her unique blend of pop and rock, her quirky hairstyles, and her infectious energy. But beyond the public eye, Lauper has privately battled a personal health challenge—psoriasis, a condition she kept hidden for years.
When Lauper debuted in the 1980s, her unique style and personality immediately connected with audiences. Her music, infectious and relatable, resonated across generations, especially through her debut album, She’s So Unusual, which featured timeless hits like “Time After Time,” “True Colors,” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Her charm and energy quickly cemented these songs as classics. Lauper's commitment and talent didn’t go unnoticed; in 1985, she won the Grammy for Best New Artist and continued to earn accolades, including MTV VMA, Tony, and Emmy awards. Her creative spirit has inspired countless artists and fans alike.
However, Lauper’s life behind the scenes was far from easy. Since 2010, she has been coping with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes scaly, itchy patches and joint inflammation. Her journey began after she noticed severe discomfort and itchiness on her scalp during tours, initially suspecting her brightly colored hairstyles might be the cause. After a formal diagnosis, her symptoms became more intense, leading to painful flare-ups that forced her to briefly step away from her career.
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In a moving 2015 interview with People, Lauper described her experience with psoriasis, likening her sense of isolation to that of “the elephant man.” She also shared her ongoing efforts to find relief through herbal treatments and other remedies. The illness impacted her self-image, prompting her to cover up with wigs and turtlenecks in place of her iconic looks, leaving her feeling “like a nun.”
Despite these struggles, Lauper has approached life with resilience and positivity. In 2016, she expressed her commitment to bringing “a lot of light” into her life, drawing strength from her close family bonds. Discovering that over 7.5 million people also suffer from psoriasis motivated her to help others with similar challenges. Since 2015, Lauper has partnered with Novartis and the National Psoriasis Foundation, helping to create MoretoPsoriasis.com, a platform dedicated to raising awareness about the condition.
Most recently, Lauper’s enduring talent shone through during a New Year’s Eve performance alongside Billy Porter. Together, they delivered a powerful rendition of “True Colors,” reminding audiences of her indomitable spirit and vibrant energy—a testament to Lauper’s enduring impact, both as an artist and as an advocate.
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