In a remarkable display of confidence and resilience, actress Salma Hayek has become the cover star of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition at the age of 58. The actress openly shared her journey of overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome before the photoshoot, highlighting her journey towards self-acceptance.

According to Hayek, she initially hesitated to participate. She recounted on the ‘Today’ show, ‘I said yes and then when it was time to do it, I tried to back out. I said, ‘No,’ because the bathing suits never fit me, how am I gonna do this? There’s nothing my size — I always suffer.’”

Despite her reservations, Hayek managed to channel her nerves into a successful photoshoot. She revealed that Sports Illustrated sent her 200 swimsuits to choose from to alleviate her stress, with many needing alterations, which she humorously noted.

Her participation in such a prominent magazine has been a profound moment for her, especially considering her reflections on beauty standards. She expressed her shock and pride about being on the cover at her current age, emphasizing, ‘I remember when I was young and hot, I used to look at this magazine. I wanted to see who was the new gorgeous model, the new girl of the moment. And it never crossed my mind that I could be on that cover because they didn’t look like me. My body’s not necessarily the model type and I never thought that was a possibility. And for it to happen when I’m 58? It’s really shocking.’

Beyond her modeling achievements, Hayek has been vocal about her skincare secrets, attributing her youthful skin to natural ingredients like tepezcohuite—used in Mexico for burn victims—and her rejection of Botox and fillers.

Her story resonates with many, illustrating the importance of self-love, body positivity, and breaking age-related stereotypes in the fashion and entertainment industries. Salma’s journey encourages a broader understanding that beauty and confidence know no age limits.

As she continues to influence and inspire, Hayek’s message is clear: confidence stems from within, and everyone deserves to see their reflection in the mainstream media. Her appearance on the cover is not just a personal milestone but a step forward in redefining beauty standards worldwide.

Would you like to learn more about how celebrities are challenging traditional beauty ideals? Explore further and embrace your own unique qualities today.