Beauty in the pandemic

If you’re anything like me and millions of people around the world during this pandemic you’ve been exploring the video call capabilities of Zoom, WhatsApp and Messenger.

There’s no doubt this technology has been a lifesaver for many of us, allowing us to keep a connection with friends, family and colleagues.

But I’ve noticed a funny thing happening and it’s the celebrity world that’s really brought it home. As celebrities have brought TV interviewers into their homes and lives in a way we haven’t seen before, we are also seeing the celebrities themselves in a way rarely seen.

Christina Applegate appears on Live with Kelly & Ryan

We’re seeing them in their natural beauty. Quarantined in their homes without makeup and hair specialists, many celebrities are showing us how they really look. We’re seeing grey hair and fine lines and skin breakouts and all the things they’ve worked so hard to cover up.

But I don’t really see those things. What I see is someone who is authentic and vulnerable. And it makes me like them more. In fact, when I see a rerun of a talk show and the celebrity appears with the hair extensions, bushy false eyelashes and layers of airbrushed makeup, they look more doll-like than real. They are aesthetically beautiful but it doesn’t feel like true beauty.

Of course, we all want to look our best for others. And we will continue to take care of our skin, wear a bright lipstick, select becoming hairstyles and look after our bodies. But I hope we put away the artificial accessories we layer on and embrace what we have discovered in these unusual times. For me, in the “new” normal, someone who glows with good health and a big smile is going to be the “new” beauty.