In the last two months, a horrific spate of acid attacks have hit the headlines.
Beautician Adele Bellis, 23, was left with permanent facial injuries in March this year after being doused in sulphuric acid in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in a vicious attack arranged by her twisted ex-boyfriend Anthony Riley, 26..
And just weeks ago, mum-of-six Carla Whitlock was left blinded in one eye with agonizing burns after brothers Billy Midmore, 22, and Geoffrey, 26, allegedly threw acid over as she left a restaurant in Southampton.
**WOMAN FOUND GUILTY OF HORRIFIC LONDON ACID ATTACK ON FORMER FRIEND **
One person who knows the pain of an acid attack is Naomi Oni.
The 23-year-oldwas walking home from her job at a London Victoria Secret’s store in December 2012 when her jealous friend Mary Konye threw sulphuric acid in her face, leaving her with severe burns.
Almost three years on from the attack, Naomi, from East London, is still picking up the pieces.
She tells Closer: “The attack has had a huge impact on my life.
“I’ve found it difficult to get close to people since the attack, especially after being betrayed so terribly by someone I thought was a friend.
“I’ve got scarring on my face, neck and chest and there have been times when I’ve felt suicidal.
"After the attack I couldn’t bear to look in the mirror or leave the house.
“I haven’t had any reconstructive surgery yet, but I’m hoping to have an operation to help smooth out my skin in future.
“The attack has destroyed my life and more needs to be done to stop others becoming victims.
"There should be tighter restrictions on the sale of products with acid in them, as well as tougher sentences.”
**To read the rest of Naomi's story, pick up Closer magazine, out today **