Retin-A and Other Youth Miracles: A Dermatologist's Guide to Looking Ten Years Younger

A topical acne medicine, Retin-A can reduce the severity of some aging lines in the skin if used under the care of a knowledgeable physician, although, Bark notes, it is not FDA-approved for that use. Bark's ( Skin Secrets ) information is accurate, and his advice for Retin-A users is generally sound, but this dermatologist's conviction that everyone should use the drug from age 30 or so is highly questionable, playing on the fearful vanity of the would-be patient (``Nobody, man or woman, need look his chronological age these days''). His enthusiasm for virtually any medical technique that masks aging in the slightest, regardless of cost, will also give readers pause. Other recommendations range from the commonplace (use sunscreens) to the absurd (``we all need to become better `poker faces' '' to prevent facial wrinkling). The book also promotes cosmetic collagen injections and plastic surgery, liposuction, sclerotherapy for varicose veins and Dove soap. 50,000 first printing; Rodale Book Club selection. (June)