A heated debate has emerged over the so-called “Mar-a-Lago face” trend, a term used to describe the alleged cosmetic enhancements among those in Donald Trump’s inner circle.
The controversy escalated when Laura Loomer, a Trump supporter and far-right activist, accused DailyMail of using a photoshopped image of her in their reporting on the trend.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Loomer slammed DailyMail for what she claimed were manipulated images aimed at discrediting her. “This is honestly so outrageous. @MailOnline now using obviously photoshopped pictures of Trump supporters they don’t like to get clicks,” she wrote. Loomer alleged her face had been altered in a published image and described it as part of a broader attempt to undermine Trump allies.
She added, “The child has been photoshopped with a mustache and my face has been photoshopped by Daily Mail. Is this what Daily Mail passes as ‘journalism’ now? Manipulating images of people they don’t like?” Loomer also shared a recent photo to show what she claimed was her actual appearance and called for the publication to “delete their post and practice real journalism.”
The ‘Mar-a-Lago Face’ phenomenon
The term “Mar-a-Lago face” has been making waves in political circles, describing an aesthetic characterised by Botox, fillers, bronzed skin, and a smooth, artificial complexion.
Critics suggest this look has become common among Trump associates, including Lara Trump, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Matt Gaetz, and Kristi Noem.
Michigan-based plastic surgeon Dr Anthony Youn previously told DailyMail that some of Trump’s allies appeared to have undergone “mildly to moderately overdone” cosmetic work.
Others, including San Francisco plastic surgeon Dr Corey Maas, criticised the visible effects of Botox in figures such as Gaetz, claiming it left him with “odd and expressionless” features. He also added that overuse of Botox in men could lead to a drooping effect, making them appear “evil.”
The transformation isn’t limited to men. Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, has reportedly undergone significant changes, including Botox and cheek fillers, alongside skin treatments to achieve a bronzed glow.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, her evolving look aligns with what has been observed in Kimberly Guilfoyle, Donald Trump Jr’s fiancée, who experts believe has overused Botox and fillers, resulting in facial asymmetry.
Kristi Noem, the South Dakota governor who was nominated for Homeland Security Secretary, also caught public attention.
Reports from The New York Times highlighted that Noem’s straightened teeth and polished appearance seemed part of a calculated effort to fit the aesthetic preferences of Trump’s orbit. Republican strategist Ron Bonjean commented that Noem appeared to be catering to “an audience of one,” referring to the former president.
Interestingly, Trump himself reportedly disapproves of plastic surgery.
As per The Atlantic, the President-elect was “disgusted” upon learning about the extent of Laura Loomer’s alleged cosmetic enhancements.
However, according to The Hollywood Reporter, the broader trend of cosmetic tweaking has permeated DC across party lines, with politicians like Nancy Pelosi, Kamala Harris, and Joe Biden also rumoured to rely on aesthetic treatments.
