Musician Seal’s Face Scars Caused by Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

GettySeal poses before signing copies of his album “7” at Barnes & Noble at The Grove on November 18, 2015 in Los Angeles, California.

There is no question that Seal is a talented singer, but many often wonder about the scars on his face. Did the star suffer burns when he was younger? What caused them?

The scars are actually from a type of lupus that is called discoid lupus erythematosus. It affects the skin above the neck and is a chronic skin condition of sores with inflammation. The condition is genetic and the exact cause is unknown, though AOCD states that the cause is said to be the body’s immune system incorrectly attacking normal skin. Cortisone ointments and shots are often used to help treat discoid lupus erythematosus. But, this is only to improve the appearance or slow down the progression of skin lesions.

AOCD reports some of the symptoms of discoid lupus erythematosus as scarring or lesions on the face, ears, and scalp and sometimes on other body areas. In addition, a small percentage of those diagnosed with discoid lupus can develop a disease of the internal organs. A skin biopsy must be done in order to determine the diagnosis.

GettyHere, Seal performs at the 2015 Rock in Rio on September 20, 2015 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

According to Biography.com, Seal developed this rare form of lupus when he was younger and his face became scarred by the time he was 23 years old. The Canada Journal reports that doctors removed muscle tissue from Seal’s face when he was diagnosed. In addition, it has been speculated that Seal’s being bald is partly because of hair loss from his disease. Over the years, there have been several rumors about how Seal got his scars. Spike reported that there were rumors he was burned, that he had scars from acne or that the scars were the result of a tribal scarification rite. There was even a rumor that Seal was bitten by a wolf.

Opening up to Rolling Stone, Seal said that at first, having the scars on his face depressed him, but he says now he actually likes them. And, although Seal’s condition has been in remission for years, The Sun reports that the scars are permanent.