Seal, the renowned British singer known for hits like “Crazy,” “Killer,” and the romantic ballad “Kiss From a Rose,” has sold over 20 million records globally.
Starting his music journey in local clubs and later joining a British funk band, he embarked on a successful career that included more than seven studio albums.
Beyond his music career, Seal’s personal life, including his previous marriage to German model Heidi Klum, has attracted attention. However, one question continues to pique curiosity: Why does he have those facial scars?
Seal, born Henry Olusegun Adeola Samuel, possesses unique facial scars attributed to discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a rare autoimmune skin condition characterized by raised, scaly, and inflamed lesions. Seal first experienced DLE at 21 but sought treatment in 1990 after his early success. A Harley Street physician diagnosed him, prescribing tablets that managed the condition but etched enduring scars.
Explained: What Happened to Henry Olusegun Adeola Samuel/ Seal’s Face?
Seal, the renowned British singer known for his distinctive facial scarring, has long intrigued fans and the public alike.
These prominent marks have sparked questions and speculation about their origin. Seal, whose real name is Henry Olusegun Adeola Samuel, has openly discussed his facial scars.
So, it isn’t a secret he is keeping.
The enigmatic scarring on Seal’s face is a testament to his journey with discoid lupus erythematosus. This chronic and rare skin condition comes under the lupus erythematosus spectrum of autoimmune diseases.
Discoid lupus erythematosus, often referred to as DLE, is characterized by the development of skin lesions, typically in the form of raised, scaly, and frequently inflamed patches.
According to the trusted National Institutes of Health (NIH), this systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) is an autoimmune disease that happens when the body’s own immune system, which usually defends against infections and diseases, turns against its own tissues.
This autoimmune response triggers inflammation and, in some cases, leads to permanent tissue damage.
Lupus can manifest in various ways, and individuals affected by it may experience periods of illness, known as flares, followed by periods of wellness, referred to as remission.
These painful flares can range from mild to severe and do not adhere to a specific pattern. However, with appropriate medical treatment, many individuals with lupus can effectively manage the disease.
It’s worth noting that lupus can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent among women, with the majority of such cases happening in individuals aged 15 to 45 years.
Furthermore, certain racial and ethnic groups, including African Americans, American Indians, and individuals of Asian descent, have a higher risk of developing lupus.
Additionally, a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases may increase an individual’s susceptibility to the condition.
Seal has openly discussed the origins of his facial scars in past interviews, providing valuable insights into his experience with discoid lupus erythematosus.
He affectionately refers to these marks as his “battle scars” and has shared the story of their emergence.
In an interview with The Guardian, he said:
“I always call the marks on my face my battle scars. I tell my children I sustained them when I was fighting to defeat evil demons.”
The singer revealed that discoid lupus first made its presence known when he was 21 years old.
At the time, the appearance of these skin lesions was disconcerting, primarily because Seal had no prior knowledge of the condition.
It wasn’t until Seal achieved his first taste of success in 1990 that he sought medical treatment for his condition. He consulted a physician on Harley Street in London, who promptly diagnosed him with discoid lupus erythematosus.
The prescribed treatment, consisting of tablets, effectively managed the condition, causing the lupus to subside. However, it left behind the indelible scars that have since become a part of his distinctive image.
These scars testify to his resilience and triumph over a challenging chapter in his life.
Which Seal song do you love the most? Which album of his is your favorite?
Let us know your opinions in the comments below.
Source: The Guardian and National Institute of Health
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