Photo from Rarebeauty.com, the new makeup brand from Selena Gomez
In January of 2020, Selena Gomez released Rare, her 3rd full-length album. Debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, Gomez said the album was composed of “the most honest music [she’s] ever made.” In the years leading up to the album release, the singer battled life-threatening complications due to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). In an interview with Lulu Garcia-Navarro– of NPR– Selena said Rare was her way of reclaiming her story and celebrating what is rare and unique about her and all people.
The message was so important that she even had the word ‘rare’ tattooed below her jawline. People speculate that the tattoo is related to the singer’s intense struggle with Lupus, her public battle with mental health, and high profile break-up with singer Justin Beiber. In an interview with Apple Music, Selena said, “It’s [rare] a very important word to me.”
The word, and the emotion and passion behind it, is making an appearance once again. On September 3rd, 2020, Gomez is releasing Rare Beauty, a make-up line dedicated to inclusivity and products that make people feel good about themselves. From this Sephora exclusive brand, consumers can expect 48 different shades of foundation and concealer. This is a big deal considering the industry norm is around 10-15 shades. The commercial ad campaign for the line will be different too— the casting call asked for ‘real people’ to share videos of what makes them ‘rare’ or imperfect to earn a spot on the campaign. In a teaser video, Gomez said, “We are not meant to look like everybody else; we’re meant to look like ourselves.” She has made it clear that this is make-up that celebrates and highlights the differences that make each person special.
Additionally, Gomez said, “I think Rare Beauty can be more than a beauty brand. I want us all to stop comparing ourselves to each other and start embracing our own uniqueness.” As someone who understands how low self-esteem and self-doubt feels, this Hollywood star is deeply connected to the message she is trying to spread.
According to the US National Library of Medicine, mental health conditions are widespread in Lupus patients. It is reported that one-fourth of people with Lupus also have depression, while over a third suffer from anxiety. The pop star has been candid about her personal journey in dealing with these common Lupus complications. In a speech delivered at the McLean Hospital Annual Gala, Selena spoke on the subject of mental health— “it felt as though all of my pain, anxiety and fear washed over me all at once, and it was one of the scariest times of my life.” And this isn’t the first time Gomez has spoken on openly in this way.
Selena regularly encourages her fans– and all people– to seek help when they need it. She further broadened her reach on this topic in 2017, by becoming an executive producer for the popular Netflix series, 13 Reasons Why. Adapted from the Jay Asher novel, the series dives deep into issues related to depression and suicide. For Selena, the story was so close to her heart, that producing it was a “passion project” that had to be done. Knowing this, it comes as no surprise that 1% of annual sales netted by Rare Beauty will go to funding charities that increase access to mental health resources. The goal is to raise one hundred million dollars over the course of ten years.
to see products
Gomez– who suffers from Lupus Nephritis– has shared her highs and lows with fans in ultimate vulnerability. Nothing has been off-limits from chemotherapy and struggles with anxiety and depression to her kidney transplant. In being so transparent, Selena has selflessly used her platform to raise Lupus Awareness. Alongside personal contributions, Gomez’s involvement has resulted in millions of dollars donated to SLE research and treatment.
Selena Gomez is a true inspiration to people everywhere. Through battles with physical and mental health and a deeply emotional and highly publicized break-up, she has found a sense of self-worth in all the things that make her rare.
Learn more and browse products at www.rarebeauty.com
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My wife adores Selena Gomez. I can’t wait to share this with her!