Everyone should read this important body positive message from Demi Lovato

Technology might have given us all the ability to smooth out our flaws and filter our spots, but the perfection we see online can take its toll on our self-esteem.

Singer Demi Lovato broke with these expectations this week, sharing a series of Instagram stories dedicated to her stretch marks and cellulite – and we’re so, so here for it.

The star advocates frequently for self-love, sharing her own previous battles with an eating disorder and her journey to self-confidence.

Earlier this year, when many of us were contemplating what we could ‘improve’ about ourselves as a New Year’s Resolution, Lovato posted a beach picture accompanied by a powerful caption: in which she states:

Learning to love my body the way it is is challenging but life-changing.

In the past, Lovato has spoken frankly about drug addiction, self-harming and her battle with bulimia, even sharing side-by-side photos of her pre and post-recovery. In documentary Simply Complicated, she states:

The last decade has taught me a lifetime of lessons. I’ve learnt that secrets make you sick. I’m learning how to be a voice and not a victim.

Her willingness to discuss these issues is crucial – according to eating disorder charity Beat, approximately 1.25 million people in the UK suffer with an eating disorder, and 89 per cent of these victims are women.

The influence of social media on body image is also well-documented, with recent research published in the New Media & Society journal revealing that the toned, glossy, impossibly perfect influencers we see on Instagram has a negative influence on self-esteem.

That’s why it’s so refreshing to see stars like Lovato speaking candidly about their own self-image and embracing the stretch marks and cellulite we’re conditioned to see as flaws. Now that's a message we can get on board with.

More: Demi Lovato opens up about her struggles with alcohol and mental health in inspiring speech