Ulrika Jonsson, the 57-year-old TV presenter, recently responded sharply to online criticism aimed at her appearance, particularly comments about her "over-tanned" and "ageing" face. The backlash followed her candid conversation about sobriety on Spencer Matthews' Untapped podcast, where she appeared without makeup. Jonsson took to Instagram to address the ageist and appearance-based remarks, urging people to focus on her message rather than judging women’s looks relentlessly. She acknowledged that her "excessively tanned, flawed, and ageing face" might upset some but stressed that such criticism detracts from more meaningful discussions.

Jonsson revealed that not wearing makeup during the podcast was partly because she simply forgot, given that audio projects nowadays have a visual element, and partly because she dislikes it after years of heavy makeup routines starting as early as 5 a.m. She has suffered from eczema since childhood, which affects her skin on her face, body, and lips, making makeup uncomfortable and often impossible to wear. Her struggle with skin conditions and her natural preference for minimal makeup highlight the challenges she faces in an industry that places immense pressure on women’s appearances.

She also addressed her love for sunbathing, confirming she is a self-professed "sun worshipper" who has embraced a tanned look despite the known risks of sun damage. Jonsson has openly admitted that sunlight is her "drug of choice" and that growing up in Sweden's dark winters fostered her love for sunshine. Despite warnings about premature ageing and health hazards, she has refused to apologize to what she calls the "tanning police," advocating for personal freedom over societal judgement about skin tone and ageing signs. She noted that her uneven skin pigmentation and signs of ageing are natural and often exacerbated by her decades of sun exposure and skincare routines since childhood.

Jonsson’s response also touches on the broader issue of unrealistic beauty standards and the relentless scrutiny women face, especially those in the spotlight. She pointed out that turning 58 soon, she will never look like the youthful 21-year-old she once was on TV. Through her statements, she challenges the cultural narrative that condemns natural ageing and calls out the cruelty of online trolls who equate ageing with imperfection. Her stance encourages a more compassionate and respectful conversation surrounding women’s appearances and the inevitable changes brought by time.