For some, putting themselves out there on social media can be daunting — I know it can be for me! And more specifically, in a world full of filters, editing and retouching, wearing absolutely no makeup in an Instagram selfie is, unfortunately, the anomaly. However (!!), today, Madonna is re-normalising the norm by stripping it all back in her recent snap. Can I get a hell yeah?!
Taking to her 19.8 million Instagram followers, the 80s icon posted an au naturel, makeup-free selfie on her Story. To caption the picture, the singer wrote: "Harsh sunlight of Monday."
As someone who has spent the last however many years hoarding blurring setting powders, texture refining primers and beauty products alike to try and minimise the look of my pores, I now thank Madonna for her services. 2025 is all about embracing what makes me, me!
Now, having said that, we're not turning a blind eye to the fact that this is Madonna. From facialists to cosmetic procedures and even the best of the best skincare out there, the superstar does have access to the very best in beauty. But right here, right now, flaunting what we're taking to be her natural skin texture is a step in the right direction in normalising the realness of human skin.
One small step for man, one giant leap for girlies with gigantic pores! Maybe you'll catch me over on the 'gram post-cleanse... aka, makeup-free...
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
