Why is Donald Trump so orange?

Donald Trumpโ€™s noticeable orange complexion has often caught people’s attention. Now, fresh insights might just shed light on this long-standing enigma…

Spotlight on Trump’s Unique Look

Donald Trump has been in the public eye for many years, yet during his presidency, his distinct orange tone became a focal point for many. Despite public speculation, the 79-year-old former president denies using spray tans or heavy amounts of makeup. Aides have maintained that his vibrant hue is simply due to โ€œgood genes.โ€ Nevertheless, chatter on the internet continues, bringing new theories to light.

Emily Elsie, a photo editor, is one of those raising questions about Trumpโ€™s complexion. She recently took to Instagram to voice her perspective, expressing surprise that this noteworthy detail isn’t being more widely discussed.

Analyzing Color Fluctuations

Initially, Elsie attributed the noticeable changes in Trump’s skin tone to photo editing and lighting variations. She observed, โ€œTrumpโ€™s complexion varied significantly with different lighting and photographersโ€™ color choices. In cooler lighting, his bronzer appeared subtler; warmer tones made his skin appear very orange.โ€

Elsie noted that initially, Trumpโ€™s makeup seemed designed for television, which often dulls natural colors. However, she now suspects a deeper cause. Recalling his early days in office, Elsie mentioned, โ€œTrump was distinctly less orange in 2017, yet as time progressed, more bronzer seemed to be added.โ€

Her idea is that stress plays a role. โ€œThe more stressed Trump is, the more pronounced his makeup appears,โ€ Elsie theorized, noting that his look tends to soften when he’s away from the pressures of the Oval Office.

A Noticeable Shift

According to Elsie, the decisive change came after Trump’s debate with Biden in mid-2024, when his makeup significantly diminished. โ€œWith Trump leading in the polls, the heavy makeup was nowhere to be seen,โ€ she observed.

She also noted something peculiar: โ€œRecently, he seems to be doing his hands as well, judging by photos showing what looks like makeup covering his hands,โ€ she stated.

Initially, Trump’s team downplayed questions, attributing the discoloration to constant handshaking. Eventually, it came to light that Trump suffers from chronic venous insufficiency, a condition affecting blood flow. Elsie noticed the former president’s makeup darkens towards the close of election campaigns.

She encourages viewers to think more deeply about his changing appearance rather than mock it, suggesting it might reflect feelings of insulation, insecurity, or being constantly surrounded by one’s own image.