The Beauty Buzz

From the archives

History shows that noblewomen swallowed arsenic and dabbed on batsí blood to improve their complexions; 18th-century Americans prized the warm urine of young boys to erase their freckles; Victorian ladies removed their ribs to give themselves a wasp waist. The desire to be beautiful is as old as civilization, as is the pain that it can cause. In his autobiography, Charles Darwin noted a universal passion for adornment, often involving great suffering.

Fortunately, this is not the case today. Fade creams defended

Skin doctors across the U.S. are defending cosmetic fade creams and lotions in the wake of a threat by the Food and Drug Administration. The creams contain a skin lightening ingredient called hydroquinone. The American Academy of Dermatology Association says if they are banned, it will affect millions of people. They say hydroquinone in small amounts is safe for treating minor skin discolorations, uneven tone, and age spots.

More than 200 products containing this skin bleaching ingredient are on the market today. They include Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp.’s Esoterica, Johnson & Johnson’s Ambi and Porcelana, and prescription products.

Hair tips

• On fine hair, conditioners should be used at a minimum to avoid adding weight. Avoid the root area and focus on the driest ends only.
• and combs should be cleaned with warm soapy (shampoo) water and rinsed thoroughly.
• Any hair perming should be done at least two weeks prior to your special event. This will allow your curls to settle and will give you some time to learn how to make the most of your new look.
• For oily hair, use a gentle shampoo but leave it on your hair for a longer period of time rather than using a harsh clarifying shampoo.

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