cover image A Woman's Skin

A Woman's Skin

David Stoll. Rutgers University Press, $59 (280pp) ISBN 978-0-8135-2028-5

Stoll, a Beverly Hills dermatologist, provides more than the traditional ``how to take care of your skin so you'll look younger'' approach now so common. Focusing on a woman's lifespan, he discusses skin care during all stages of life, from the acne-prone teen years to senior-citizen status. The special skin problems observed in pregnant women, such as melasma, are not ignored. But there's more. In addition to brief discussions about common (warts, fever blisters) and uncommon (sarcodosis) skin conditions, and what to expect from cosmetic surgery, such as face lifts, Stoll offers other suggestions on how to keep one's skin healthy. But what will probably win the interest of most readers is Stoll's sensible presentation of the pros and cons of two ``hot'' skin products, Retin-A and the alpha-hydroxy-acids, both now touted as ``miracles'' for de-aging skin and treating wrinkles. Although most casual readers will find this slim volume informative enough, people suffering from specific problems-psoriasis or keloids-won't find many of their questions answered. In addition to a comprehensive glossary is a list of professional organizations specializing in skin disorders. (Aug.)