Selena Gomez embraces aging, rejects 2016 throwbacks

Selena Gomez has opened up about embracing the natural changes that come with age, pushing back against fans who want her to look like she did in 2016.

The Rare Beauty founder discussed aging and changing beauty standards while speaking to PEOPLE. Gomez said she is not afraid of getting older and views the process as a positive part of life.

“Getting older has been so much fun. I’m not scared at all. I love getting older,” Gomez said while reflecting on the next chapters of her life.

The singer and actress acknowledged that aging brings physical changes, but said being alive matters more than trying to preserve a particular appearance.

Gomez’s comments come as photos and beauty looks from her 2016 era continue to resurface across social media. Her smoky-eye makeup from that period has also become part of online nostalgia, with Rare Beauty previously embracing the trend.

However, Gomez said some fans take the nostalgia too far and expect her to remain frozen in that period of her life.

She recalled that 2016 was a hectic stage of her career and said her dramatic makeup reflected her desire to experiment and look stylish at the time. Today, she still enjoys a smoky eye but said her approach to makeup has naturally changed.

Gomez also addressed expectations surrounding her appearance, saying she understands that some people may prefer her older looks, but she has no intention of trying to recreate her younger self.

The Only Murders in the Building star said natural beauty has become an important part of her identity. She explained that while not everyone appreciates a more natural look, she enjoys connecting with that side of herself.

Gomez also spoke warmly about her 13-year-old sister, describing her as confident and willing to experiment while understanding that she does not need makeup or beauty products to feel good about herself.

Gomez launched Rare Beauty in 2020 with a focus on challenging conventional beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance. Through the Rare Impact Fund, the company has also supported youth mental health initiatives, with the fund receiving a portion of product sales.