An Australian woman recently asked the public to guess her age and was surprised by the responses, which mostly ranged between 50 and 60. Emily, 36, from Sydney, told FEMAIL that many people have “lost touch with reality” because of constant exposure to filters, Photoshop, and cosmetic procedures, which distort perceptions of real life. Emily shared her experience on TikTok, where viewers of all ages offered “wild” guesses. One person commented, “I’m 57, and I think you’re my age, maybe a few years younger,” while another wrote, “You’re in your mid-40s. It’s your grey hair, skin, and the fine lines around your eyes.”

Emily revealed that she stopped dying her hair during lockdown, embracing her natural grey as part of feeling comfortable in her own skin. “I know most women my age won’t show their grey hair, but this is the truth,” she said. Her hair started greying at 19. She also explained that she has never used Botox, rarely wears makeup, and has not had cosmetic procedures. She attributed the bags under her eyes to sleepless nights caring for her baby son.

Even after revealing her actual age, responses continued. People suggested she looked older than 36, with guesses ranging from late 30s to mid-50s. Emily said she was both shocked and horrified by the comments, emphasizing that social media and media portrayals of beauty are not realistic.

In response, Emily launched a sleepwear brand, Dawn & Dusk Co., aiming to help women feel comfortable and confident. “PJs are the ultimate gateway to comfort,” she said. “When a woman feels comfortable, everything else falls into place. My goal is to empower women to embrace their natural beauty at any age.”