Selena Gomez recently responded to speculation about her appearance in a TikTok video that discussed whether she had undergone cosmetic procedures. The video, shared by content creator Marissa Barrionuevo, inquired about Gomez’s looks over the years. Barrionuevo, who works as a physician assistant in a plastic surgery office, chose not to analyze Gomez’s appearance, citing the star’s health struggles with lupus as the primary reason. She emphasized that Gomez’s appearance changes could be attributed to her diagnosis rather than cosmetic work.
In the now-deleted video from 2023, Barrionuevo informed her followers about the impact of lupus on a person’s appearance and emphasized the need to differentiate between medical conditions and cosmetic enhancements. Following Gomez’s comments on the video, where she revealed she had Botox due to a flare-up, Barrionuevo expressed regret and apologized to the singer for causing any distress. She acknowledged the negative impact such discussions could have and mentioned that she had decided to stop making videos of this nature because of this reason.
Gomez responded to Barrionuevo’s apology and expressed her love for her, indicating that she gets sad sometimes when such topics are discussed. In 2014, Gomez was diagnosed with lupus, leading to a kidney transplant and chemotherapy. She faced weight gain due to the medication prescribed for her health conditions. Gomez has been vocal about the body image issues she has dealt with as a result of her health struggles, including body shaming related to her weight fluctuations. She stated in 2019 that her lupus, kidney problems, and high blood pressure have impacted her health and self-image.
The singer emphasized that her appearance changes over the years were not solely due to cosmetic procedures but also to health-related issues. Gomez has been open about her struggles with lupus and the physical and emotional toll it has taken on her. She has also faced mental health challenges and has been an advocate for destigmatizing these issues. Gomez’s openness about her health journey has been applauded by fans and has helped raise awareness about chronic illnesses and their effects on individuals’ lives.
Furthermore, Gomez’s response to the TikTok video sheds light on the harmful effects of speculating about celebrities’ appearances and perpetuating beauty standards. Her honesty about her use of Botox and her struggles with health-related weight changes dismantles the perception of perfection often associated with public figures. Gomez’s experience serves as a reminder that everyone faces challenges and insecurities, regardless of their fame or success. By sharing her story, Gomez encourages others to embrace their flaws and prioritize self-care and mental well-being over external validation.
Overall, Selena Gomez’s reaction to the TikTok video serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding when discussing individuals’ appearances. The conversation surrounding her health journey sheds light on the complexities of living with chronic illnesses and combating societal pressures related to body image. Gomez’s transparency and vulnerability in sharing her struggles inspire others to embrace their imperfections and prioritize self-love. Her story is a testament to resilience and the ability to overcome challenges with grace and authenticity.
