President Donald Trump appeared with visible makeup on his hand during public events in the capital on Friday, prompting a fresh wave of speculation about the 79-year-old’s health. A patch of foundation, lighter than his natural skin tone, was evident as he toured an exhibit at The People’s House museum.
Later that day, at an Oval Office event unveiling the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw at The Kennedy Center, Trump clasped his left hand over his right while addressing the audience, noted The Daily Beast. When he stood, the makeup was again noticeable. This was not the first time observers have pointed to cosmetic cover on his hands; similar sightings followed meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron in February, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in July, and U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Donald Trump is seen with a large patch of foundation covering his hand pic.twitter.com/c13uwqpWwQ
— Daily Mail US (@Daily_MailUS) August 22, 2025
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sidestepped the matter when asked by The Independent on Saturday, emphasizing instead the president’s public presence. “President Trump is a man of the people, and he meets more Americans and shakes their hands on a daily basis than any other President in history. His commitment is unwavering, and he proves that every single day,” she said.
The episode comes as Trump’s health remains under close watch. Last month, photos of his legs taken during a FIFA Club World Cup event stirred online debate, with observers noting swelling and discoloration. The White House later confirmed he has chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition in which faulty valves cause blood to pool in the veins. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the disorder can cause discomfort if left untreated. Leavitt insisted the president was not in pain but declined to give details about medical care.
In April, White House physician Captain Sean Barbabella pronounced Trump in “excellent cognitive and physical health” following his annual exam, attributing hand bruising to aspirin therapy for cardiovascular protection. The president had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common and non-serious vein condition, after noticing swelling in his legs.
FULL TRANSPARENCY: Karoline Leavitt addresses speculation about President Trump’s bruised hand and swollen ankles pic.twitter.com/sKTgb9PYqT
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) July 17, 2025
Leavitt has maintained that Trump’s doctor is available for questions, saying there is “nothing to hide.” She also confirmed that no treatments or lifestyle adjustments have been introduced, including for his swollen ankles.
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