Whether or not you should or shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, in truth most of us do, at least upon initial contact. When we meet a stranger, consciously or unconsciously our reaction is as much a result of societal standards as a genetic, instinctive reaction is. If someone is pretty, the initial and […]

Makeup: a philosophical approach Several years ago a documentary produced by the British Broadcasting Corporation went into entertaining detail and analysis of this salient point. The Human Face was written and directed by comedy legend John Cleese and featured some rather candid comments from dermatologist Dr. Vail Reese on how we perceive skin flaws while […]

Problem: I recently went to the dermatologist and she told me the little whitish-yellowish bumps on various parts of my face are a disorder called sebaceous hyperplasia. She explained to me that the only way to permanently get rid of these bumps was to come in for laser treatments (probably three sessions) with the Smooth […]

Problem: I have developed small, brownish pieces of skin that are dotted all over my neck. This is so unattractive and seems to be getting worse. What are these things and what can I do about them? Solution: The good news is the growths that you see are almost certainly benign and nothing more than […]

Problem: I would so love to have a perfect white smile. I hate the color of my teeth. I want them to look like the way models’ and celebrities’ teeth look. What should I do? Solution: There are many reasons why someone may have yellow or stained teeth. Mostly it’s genetic: Some people just have […]

Problem: During the winter I use an emollient moisturizer you recommend and it works great, but during the summer it seems a bit much. Should I change what I do with the seasons? Solution: Summer weather can absolutely require a change in skin-care products, particularly moisturizers. Instead of the richer or more emollient moisturizers you […]

Problem: A friend of mine gets her eyelashes and eyebrows dyed at the hair salon. The effect is really rather impressive and I’m tempted to try this myself. Her blonde lashes look dark and long, even without mascara. What do you think? Solution: Unfortunately, my solution isn’t much of a solution, because all I can […]

Problem: What causes foundation to settle into the pores and leave tiny little spots, or settle into laugh lines? I do not know whether my moisturizer is too heavy or not heavy enough, whether the foundation is too heavy or too light, or whether I have not waited long enough for the moisturizer to be […]

Problem: I have a dear friend who has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I want to be a supportive and I know how important feeling beautiful is for her. Any suggestions from you would be truly appreciated. Solution: I’ve spoken with many women who have lived through the ordeal of radiation and chemotherapy, and […]