Logan Johannisen, a contestant on Australian Survivor, shared her challenging journey through Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) in an Instagram video dated March 20, 2025. The 28-year-old from Melbourne revealed that her struggles stemmed from two decades of steroid cream use for eczema, beginning at just 18 years old. During her time filming in Samoa, she was granted medical accommodations to manage her condition.
Logan’s public update came after her presence at the tribal council on March 19, where her skin irritation was notably visible on screen. She openly discussed her medical history, treatment plans, and strategies for coping during the physically strenuous reality competition.
Logan’s Journey: Coping with TSW amidst Survivor Challenges
Throughout her experiences on Australian Survivor, Logan highlighted a dramatic contrast between her typical TSW symptoms and those she faced while filming. At home, her condition significantly restricted her daily activities.
“Long story short, I’m five months into topical steroid withdrawal, which is basically my body detoxing from 20-odd years of serious cream usage. It’s a very long, very painful process. A lot of pain, a lot of discomfort and I can barely move, I can’t really sleep at night,”
Logan confided during her Instagram update on March 20. Surprisingly, the tropical climate of Samoa offered her symptom relief, resulting in fewer skin issues during her time filming. She credited this improvement to both a simplified diet and favorable environmental conditions, as medical documentation indicated minimal dependence on prescribed skin treatments while competing.
Responding to followers’ inquiries, she reassured viewers about her skin management during challenges.
“I was fine out there. I was provided the necessary medication that I needed,”Logan shared.
Particular attention was required for underwater challenges, as these posed potential complications for sunscreen application. Despite this, she received consistent medical oversight throughout her filming, adapting to heightened sun sensitivity while navigating the intense competition.
The production team also integrated these medical considerations into the show’s competition protocols, allowing Logan to carry the requisite medication while largely keeping her symptoms under control. Medical personnel closely monitored her condition, especially during intense, sun-exposed activities.
Logan’s Survivor Performance
Logan entered the competition as part of the Brains Tribe and quickly made her mark by securing eight challenge victories. Throughout the season, she faced tribal councils where she was voted against seven times. After day 15, a tribe switch saw her transition to the Brawn Tribe.
Her challenge repertoire included key victories in events like “Serpent Turf”and “Challenge Pitch,”as well as significant water challenges such as “Sumo at Sea”and “Box Your Mind.”Notable records indicate her involvement in various competitions including “Fire Starter”and “Roller Ball.”
Upon merging on day 26 into the Malosi Tribe, Logan held on to an immunity idol during critical game phases. She adeptly formed strategic alliances while navigating complex tribal dynamics, leading to pivotal decisions during the tribal council that eliminated Laura on March 19.
About Logan Johannisen
Residing in Melbourne with her husband, a football player for the Western Bulldogs, Logan is also a dedicated mother of two. At 22, she welcomed her first child, with her second born when she was 25. Balancing family life with her studies, she is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business degree with a focus on marketing.
Logan successfully juggled her medical treatment for TSW with her academic responsibilities and filming for Australian Survivor. Before competing, she received medical clearance and underwent fitness assessments to ensure she could manage her symptoms under competitive conditions. Her medical team implemented thorough monitoring protocols throughout the show.
Australian Survivor: Brains v Brawn II is currently airing on Channel 10 and 10 Play.