In the bustling heart of New York City, at the prestigious Lincoln Center, Selena Gomez stood tall, not just as a renowned singer and actress, but as a beacon of change in the beauty industry. At the Time100 Summit, amidst the vibrant discussions and dynamic dialogues, Gomez took the stage alongside Lucy Feldman from Time and Elyse Cohen from Rare Beauty, engaging in a profound conversation that resonated far beyond the event’s walls.
Gomez’s journey into the realm of cosmetics with Rare Beauty wasn’t merely a venture; it was a response to a pressing need she keenly felt. Reflecting on her own struggles with the relentless pressure of unrealistic beauty standards, she articulated her mission with fervor. “Personally, I felt that there’s a very unrealistic standard when it comes to the cosmetic world and it makes me a little sad for my generation,” she shared, her voice echoing the sentiments of millions worldwide. “And for anyone to look at something that’s probably touched up and made to look nice is… I just wanted to break that down.”
The authenticity of Gomez’s vision shone through as she candidly admitted, “I don’t know how to do makeup and I have a makeup line.” It was this refreshing honesty that endeared her to the audience, making her message all the more impactful. Rare Beauty wasn’t just about cosmetics; it was about empowerment, about embracing one’s uniqueness without succumbing to societal pressures.
As Gomez elaborated on the philosophy behind Rare Beauty, it became evident that this was more than just a business venture—it was a movement. “I wanted it to feel good when they’re using my products,” she explained, her passion infusing every word. From the uplifting names of the products to the commitment to promoting mental health awareness, every aspect of Rare Beauty was a reflection of Gomez’s unwavering dedication to making a difference.
Since its launch in 2020, Rare Beauty has not only captured the hearts of beauty enthusiasts but has also made a significant impact on the industry, with Forbes valuing it at a staggering $2 billion. Yet, for Gomez, success was never just about the numbers; it was about the lives touched and the conversations sparked. “I didn’t want to really enter the cosmetics world without a mission,” she declared, her resolve unwavering. Through the Rare Impact Fund, which donates 1% of sales to support mental health services for young people, Gomez is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
As Gomez graced the stage, resplendent in a Matrix-inspired leather ensemble, it was evident that she was not just a celebrity but a trailblazer, unafraid to challenge the status quo. Her presence at the Time100 Summit was a testament to her influence, her voice reverberating across generations.
