Skin Talk (2022)

For the first official shoot of Facing Myself, founder Emily collaborates with three women, each with their own skin story to tell. With acne being the most common skin condition in the world, this chapter focuses specifically on how it affects women and how they’re pushing back against the pressure of today’s beauty standards.

The images are raw, un-retouched, and honest. By experimenting with a range of lighting techniques and visual styles, the shoot offers a fuller, more nuanced perspective than typical skincare campaigns. A harsh spotlight was used to symbolise the pressure and scrutiny people with acne often feel - as if their skin is always being watched. Rather than leaning into the familiar portrayal of acne as something to be ashamed of, we chose to show a different side: one where women with visible skin conditions can feel confident, radiant, and joyful. This contrast reflects the emotional range many experience - beyond sadness or insecurity.

Casting was a crucial part of the process. Each model volunteered with a clear understanding of the project’s purpose: to help others feel seen, heard, and empowered through honesty and solidarity.

Amira, 31, an Editor from south London.

“Being photographed without my makeup was a little unnerving. My skin was particularly unhappy on the day of the shoot (which incidentally worked out well for the purpose of this project!). It was something I have never done before. I don’t wear a lot of makeup, however, whatever I do wear certainly boosts how I feel about my features, so to be “naked” in a sense was both a little scary but it was also incredibly empowering to embrace my own skin.

It’s important for people to see me embracing my acne because it (hopefully) instills a sense of support and confidence in a journey where both those elements don’t necessarily exist.”

Amira: “I’ve learnt that perfect skin is just not a thing. Despite my acne stripping my confidence away when it was at it’s worst, my experience has taught me that it doesn’t change your personality or the fact that you are beautiful regardless of a breakout.

For anyone with acne, it’s there, yes and that can feel awful but I want to remind you to always affirm to yourself that having it does not mean you are ugly. It does not strip away your beauty. It does not dictate who you are, or how you should feel about yourself. Most importantly, you are not alone.”

Lourice, 24, Fashion Photographer & Artist from East London.

“The switch up from having a fresh face instead of a full face of make up, in front of the camera, masked me realise how far I’ve come in my journey and how comfortable I am with accepting my scars. Of course it was nerve-racking being so vulnerable and not being able to cover up my ‘imperfections’, but being in a space with either people who feel the same about themselves make me feel more open to being photographed without make on and talking about it.

I think it’s important for others to see me embrace my acne to help and keep reinforcing that no one else gad perfect airbrushed skin that everyone i looking for. People often forget that is is unattainable. Growing up I wish I could see it more often and not feel alone. Being a little reminder for others, even for a split second, could help someone just like me.”