Self

This is what A 52 Years-Old-Face Without Filters Or Makeup Looks Like

For this installment of Group Shot, we photographed 10 middle-aged people and asked them about their skincare routines.

By: Jenna Ryu

Photography by : Lucas Michael

April 22, 2024

Welcome to Group Shot, a series in which we photograph people of the same age completely barefaced—no makeup, no filters, no retouching—and in the same lighting. Then we ask them about their lifestyle, habits, skincare routines, and any work they’ve had done. Here’s what 52 looks like.

Name: Samantha D.
Location: New York City
Occupation: Author, host, actress, and lifestyle journalist
Do you have children? No
Do you smoke? Yes, cannabis medicinally
Do you drink? Yes, three to five drinks per week
Have you had any cosmetic work done? Hyaluronic acid fillers in cheeks and smile lines; baby Botox twice in forehead and elevens (once before my wedding, once last year); cartilage transplant in tip of nose
Skin care routine: Cleanser, exfoliant once or twice a week, eye serum, neck serum, retinol, and sunscreen
Estimated annual amount spent on skin care: $5,000–$10,000 (The truth is I lose track!)

“I was never the girl in my group with nice skin. I was the girl with the skin issues, so I think that’s how I became an excellent makeup artist. I can make anyone look like they’re not wearing makeup from a lifetime of trying to cover up my own spots.

If my beauty budget were bigger, I’d probably have a facial every single month religiously. I’ve got the spa equipment at home: The infrared, the ultrasound, the electric zappy thing. Oh my god, I’m such a sucker for beauty gadgets. If they’re selling, I’m buying.”