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What City Do You Think Has the Best Looking People?

DearSugar — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 11:00:00 -0700

According to an online poll taken by Travel +Leisure magazine, Miami residents are the most attractive in the US. As someone who's visited there, I can see why! Philadelphia came in last at number 25, with New Orleans as a close runner-up. When looking at the correlation between good-looking people and singles, you might be pleasantly surprised — seems like there are a lot of pretty single people out there, especially in San Francisco and Texas. To see the complete list and rankings of America's most attractive cities, click here.

The notion of a specific place having more good-looking people than another is kind of funny, but it's so true! When ever I travel to New York or Los Angeles, there's someone beautiful to look at everywhere you turn. In my opinion, the best-looking people reside in the Big Apple, but what about you? What city do you think houses the best-looking people?

Source

Do Good Looks Help Women Get Their Way?

DearSugar — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0700

I came across a great article over the weekend on Tango.com, raising the issue of how good looks affect the way people treat you, and in this case, how much people give you. To test the notion, a Current TV reporter spent two days on the streets of London seeing how much she could get away with — one day dressed and made up, the other day looking plain and casual. As I'm sure most of you assume, she got way more on day one — from free taxi rides to free cake — and men didn't even flinch at her somewhat outlandish requests. Day two, on the other hand, wasn't successful at all. In fact, it took the reporter three trips to different bars before someone bought her a beer.

While it'd be nice to think that we're all equal, I don't think that's the case. Do you? Regardless of what the mirror reflects back at you, tell me, do you think good looks help people get what they want more than someone who's less attractive?

Source

Dear Poll: Do You Consider Yourself Photogenic?

DearSugar — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:00:00 -0700

It’s true what they say about everybody being their worst critic; at least it certainly seems to be the case when it comes to our opinions of our physical attributes. Stare at a picture of yourself for even a second too long and it’s easy to start internally tallying all of the things about yourself that you don’t like. Whenever I have a tendency to do this, I remind myself that looking back, I'll care far more about the memories than whether or not it looked like I had a double chin. I may not be as photogenic as a model, but things could definitely be worse! We all have our off days, but in general, do you think you photograph well? Source

Dear Poll: Do You Consider Yourself Photogenic?

I’m definitely photogenic. I get a bad picture every now and then, but my signature smile usually pulls through.

I don’t photograph well at all. I don’t know what it is, but I dread the camera.

It depends on too many outside factors for me to be sure — makeup, outfit, distance, etc.

Eh, I don’t care either way. A picture is just a picture.

Other — Please share!

Do Tell: When Do You Feel the Most Beautiful?

DearSugar — Tue, 27 May 2008 09:00:00 -0700

I'm sure we all can be pretty fickle when it comes to the way we feel about ourselves. An entire room full of people could tell us we look stunning, but if we don’t feel like it, no matter what they say, we won’t believe them. Likewise, when we’re at home on a lazy weekend in our frumpiest outfit, we may feel radiantly beautiful — it's really just a state of mind. I happen to feel at my best just after a relaxing day on the beach but ladies, do tell, when do you feel the most beautiful?

Source

Relationship Protocol: Maintaining Your Beauty Routine While in a Relationship

DearSugar — Tue, 06 May 2008 13:00:00 -0700

Yesterday I touched upon the notion of not having to shave your legs when you're in a committed relationship, but some of you thought the exact opposite; that you actually need to be more mindful on keeping yourself manicured when seeing someone. Now I understand the importance of making yourself desirable for your man, but let's be honest ladies, sometimes we let the little things go by the wayside when we know he isn't going anywhere just because you "forgot" to shave your legs! So although I don't advise anyone to completely let themselves go, I am all for being your natural self in front of your significant other, even if that means skipping out on a hair wash or two. So what about you? Do you think it's imperative to maintain your beauty regimen when in a relationship?

Source

This or That: He Thinks You're Not Too Smart or Not So Pretty?

DearSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:00:00 -0700

Out to dinner and drinks with friends, you meet a group of guys that seem really cool. They chat you up at your table for a bit, and you find yourself flirting with one in particular. They head back to the restaurant bar and you and your girlfriends finish your meal. You get up to use the restroom and decide to pass behind them on your way, only to catch the one you had your eye on talking about you with his friends. Would it be worse if you overheard him say that . . .This: You're really beautiful but don’t seem to have much to say? He may like to look at you, but now you know he won’t be flirting with you because he’s interested in your personality. Or . . .That: He thinks you're amazing to talk to, but as far as looks go, you’re just not doing it for him? You know you’re probably just not his type appearance-wise, but still, it hurts. Which is worse?Source

This or That: He Thinks You're Not Too Smart or Not So Pretty?

This — He thinks you're beautiful, but not so bright.

That — He likes your mind, but not your other assets.

Dear Poll: Would it Be All That Bad if Barbie Were To Become Obsolete?

DearSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:00:00 -0700

I grew up playing with Barbie dolls — I thought they were the most beautiful women I'd ever seen. But now that I'm an adult, I see why there's so much controversy surrounding her and how — when it comes to beauty and the idea of perfection — she could be viewed as a poor role model for young women. According to Portfolio, Barbie may actually become obsolete. Mattel's first-quarter results came out yesterday and the Barbie brand has slid 12 percent in the US in the first quarter. Some of the suspected reasons for this decline is stiff competition and Barbie's absence on the Internet, especially when compared to other toys like Bratz and everything surrounding Hannah Montana. Whatever the reason, I have to ask you this: Would it really be all that bad if Barbie were to become obsolete?

Dear Poll: Would it Be All That Bad if Barbie Were To Become Obsolete?

Yes — She's an American icon! All girls should have at least one Barbie.

No — She represents an unrealistic woman. Young girls need to find a better role model.

Other — I'll explain below

Dear Poll: Have You Ever Cried Over a Bad Haircut?

DearSugar — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:00:00 -0700

There are some things that can make a person more upset than they should be and a bad haircut is definitely one of them. Of course logically, we know that hair will grow, but at the time, when you’re staring at your new 'do while huge chunks of your hair surrounds you on the floor, there’s an accompanying feeling of panic and dread. I’m not going to lie, I’ve walked out of a salon, got in my car, and burst into tears. I hope I’m not alone in having one of these mini breakdowns so ladies, what I want to know is, have you ever cried over a completely terrible cut job? Source

Dear Poll: Have You Ever Cried Over a Bad Haircut?

Yes

I haven't actually cried, but I've wanted to.

Other — I'll explain below

Beautiful Women and the Average Joe

DearSugar — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 11:00:00 -0700

Yesterday the Daily Mail pointed out an interesting study done by the University of Tennessee discussing the relationship between beautiful women and their arguably less attractive beaus — think Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas. The study made a very interesting argument about why beautiful women might be more comfortable with a run-of-the-mill guy. The article writes:

Men who saw themselves as better looking than their wives were more likely to be disgruntled and and have negative feelings about their marriage.

While researches pointed out that attractive men can easily find another mate and thus aren't as committed, I personally think anyone who assumes that they're too good for their partner is going to bring negative energy to a relationship no matter what. So what are your thoughts on the fuss over beautiful women being with so-called unattractive men? We see it all the time, but why is it so shocking?

Source

Do Tell: Does Being Beautiful Make Things Easier?

DearSugar — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 08:00:00 -0700

When it comes to society’s standards of beauty, there are many common notions: beauty is in the eye of the beholder or beauty is only skin deep, to name a few. But there are sometimes negative stigmas attached to really pretty women — that they get whatever they want and they don't need to work as hard as average looking women do. I try not to think that way, but you know what, sometimes I find myself believing it too. So ladies, do tell, do you think it’s true that good looking women — by society's standards — have it easier?

Source

This or That: Rash or Burn?

DearSugar — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:00:00 -0800

You head to the salon the morning of your sister’s wedding of which you’re the maid of honor. You've been instructed to get your hair done and nails done, but unfortunately you woke up having one of those ugly days. Not a great feeling on a day when you know you’ll be taking hundreds of pictures in a short, strapless dress. At the esthetician’s urging — and probably because you’re feeling kind of down — you decide to let her throw in a treatment that you weren’t planning on getting. Would it be worse if you . . .This: Opt to get your brows tidied up with a minor wax and end up with a bright red scabbing burn mark just left of your forehead?Or . . .That: Decide to splurge on the exfoliation treatment with your pedicure, which leaves your legs itching and covered in hundreds of raised red bumps? Source

This or That: Rash or Burn?

This: It might be small, but it’s red, irritated and in the middle of your face.

That: It's just your lower half, but it's all over your lower half.

Dear Poll: Would You Ever Bleach Down There?

DearSugar — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 13:00:00 -0800

Yes, you read the question correctly, I am asking if you would ever bleach down there, but not the down there you might think. If you're in the market for a new look, BungGlow 8 may have just what you're looking for. A recent Daily Candy talked about South Beach Skin Solutions Lightening Gel, and I just can't get it out of my head. It's an all-natural product that has the ability to dye your "bunghole" (gasp!) to match the natural color of your skin in just weeks. Now ladies, I'm no prude but I can't say that I've tried it, although they have most definitely caught my attention! I know this is a bit crass, but tell me, how do you feel about anal bleaching? Would you dare to try it? Source

Dear Poll: Would You Ever Bleach Down There?

Yes

Other — Please explain

Dear Poll: Would You Fix Your Imperfections?

DearSugar — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 09:00:00 -0800

Katherine Heigl was on Oprah last week dishing about everything from Grey's Anatomy to her wedding day. There's no denying that she's beautiful, but now she's even more perfect than she was before. She recently got her teeth straightened and was quoted saying, "I swear it's changed everything!"We all know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I happen to think little imperfections are what make us unique. Since everyone has a different opinion on cosmetic surgery, let me ask you this: If you had the opportunity, would you fix your minor imperfections, or do you embrace your one-of-a-kind attributes?Source

Dear Poll: Would You Fix Your Imperfections?

If something bothers me, I'm going to get it fixed so I can feel my best.

I think imperfections are beautiful.

It depends how much it would change the way I look. If it could be done subtly, I'd seriously consider it.

Other — Please share!

Do Tell: Is the Male Body Beautiful?

DearSugar — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:00:00 -0800

For some time now, pop culture has had a tendency to display generally unappealing images of the nude male body —Tom Hank's behind in Charlie Wilson's War anyone? Since seeing full-frontal nudity on a man is so uncommon, it leads me to believe that people view male parts as distasteful, but does that mean they're gross?

For ages now, the naked female form has been considered far more beautiful than the unclothed male form, perhaps because of our lovely curves, but I’m just not sure I agree. So ladies, please do tell, do you think the naked male body is beautiful?

Source

Dear Poll: If They Weren't Famous...

DearSugar — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 09:00:00 -0700

There are so many celebrities out there that look like the girl next door or your best friend's older brother, so why are they considered Hollywood heart throbs or beauties? Of course with a little makeup and a lot of styling, anyone can look like a star, but what I want to know is, would you look twice at some of these recognizable names if they weren't famous? Source

Dear Poll: If They Weren't Famous...

Yes - There is a reason why someone thought they would be famous, it's because they have that star quality and I can see it too.

No - They just look like regular people to me.

Other: Please share!

The How-To Lounge: Getting Rid of Unexpected Zits

DearSugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:00:00 -0700

It's Friday, and you have a whopping zit that you need to get rid of ASAP before your hot date on Saturday night. I am here to offer some quick and easy fixes to get your skin pimple free!

Click here to

Good Idea or Bad Idea: Nair Pretty for Pre-Teens

DearSugar — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 13:00:00 -0700

In a recent New York Times article, the makers of Nair announced a new product focused on the younger demographic of pre-teens - made with fruity scents and all. According to Bill Boraczek, senior vice president of marketing at Sally Hansen, 26 percent of hair removers are girls 12-19 years old, but Nair Pretty is geared even younger, 10-15 year olds, otherwise known as "first-time hair removers." To drive this idea even more, marketing executives are saying things such as, "When a girl removes hair for the first time, it's a life-changing moment," and what young girl doesn't want to be perceived as older at that age?I remember being a middle school-er and having my mom tell me I was too young to shave my legs, but times have certainly changed. So while Nair Pretty is safer than shaving (no nicks or cuts), what I want to know is, do you think it's a good idea or a bad idea for such young kids to be concerned with a little hair on their legs? Would you want your pre-teenager to have Nair Pretty in her medicine cabinet? Source

Good Idea or Bad Idea: Nair Pretty for Pre-Teens

Good Idea: As long as it's safe, I don't see what the problem is. Hairy legs can be embarrassing for young girls.

Bad Idea: 10-15 year olds are just too young to be subjected to beauty peer pressure. It's just another way to corrupt our kids.

Other: Please share!

The How-To Lounge: Getting Rid of Under Eye Circles

DearSugar — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 10:00:00 -0700

Do you ever wake up with puffy eyes, or big dark circles under your eyes? Chances are you have felt the burn caused by stress, a late night out, or a bad hangover, so here are some tips on how to reduce eye puffiness and irritation.

Click here to

The How-To Lounge: Fixing a Streaky Self-Tan

DearSugar — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 10:00:00 -0700

Now that summer is technically over, it's time to rely on your self tanning lotion to keep your summer glow alive. If you have trouble staying in the lines so to speak, here are some tips to fix your streaky tan lines. Click here to

Dear Poll: What Would Make You Give Up Sex?

DearSugar — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:00:00 -0700

Who doesn't love having sex? I think it's pretty fair to say that most people do, but what would you do if you were forced to give it up forever?? Gasp, I know! But if that was your reality, what would you demand to have in return for living a sexless life? Source

Dear Poll: How Often do you Treat Yourself?

DearSugar — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 16:00:00 -0700

As women, we treat ourselves to the little things in order to stay looking beautiful and feminine. I look forward to my maintenance appointments, everything from hair to nails, but it's a real treat when I actually find the time to step it up a notch with a massage or a facial, or even a long steam with a girlfriend. But with such busy schedules, what I want to know is, how often do you treat yourself to a little pampering? Source

Dear Poll: How Often do you Treat Yourself?

Once a week

Twice a month

Once a month

A few times a year

Never- I just don't have the time or the money

Other: Please share!

Do your Rules Change with Age?

DearSugar — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:00:00 -0700

In July's issue of O Magazine, the stunning Ellen Barkin dishes about life as a 53 year old woman -- can we all agree that she looks amazing ? She says she feels more comfortable at 53 than she did at 35, admitting that she would rather discover herself at this age than in her earlier years, a feeling many women share.

By following these 10 simple rules, Ellen proves that 50 is the new 40:

Don't wear your hair longer than to your collarbone
No red lipstick, unless you have dark or olive skin. It's aging
No blue jeans to dinner out. (But black jeans are okay)
Don't expose your knees. And cover up. Don't try to compete with 20-year-olds. A woman between 40 and forever looks great because she has style, not because she shows off her body
Don't ever wear anything strapless
But at the beach, if you have a toned body, rock that bikini for as long as you like
No miniskirts. A short skirt is okay with black tights
Don't ever revisit a trend you lived through once before
Don't wear hats, except to keep the sun off your face. A hat makes you look as if you're trying to get noticed
Wear fewer accessories, and keep your look clean

So ladies, as you get more mature and more wise with age, do tell, do you live by a new set of "rules" like Ellen does?

Source

Dear Poll: Do you go All Out Before a First Date?

DearSugar — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:45:00 -0700

On Monday, I asked you all to tell me about the most drastic beauty extremes you have endured and your comments were great -- thanks for sharing! Martini Queenie got me thinking... she gave us all of the details of the anguish she went through for a first date, something I have a feeling a lot of women do. So what I want to know is, do you go all out before a first date? Do you buy a new outfit, get your nails and hair done, try on every pair of shoes in your closet, etc? Source

Dear Poll: Do you go All Out Before a First Date?

Yes: You never have a second chance to make a first impression

No: I try to be as much myself as possible on a first date; you either like me the way I am or you don't

Other: Please share!

Do Tell: What Beauty Extremes Have you Gone to?

DearSugar — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 08:30:00 -0700

We have all heard the term, you have to suffer to be beautiful... but some women really do go to great lengths all in the name of beauty. In order to keep up with monthly bikini waxes, eyebrow tweezing, cutting and/or dying your hair, it's hard to believe we have time for our day jobs! I think all women can admit they have fallen victim to becoming a beauty slave, so ladies, do tell, what extremes have you endured in order to look your best?

Source

How to Stay Fresh After Stepping off the Plane

DearSugar — Tue, 15 May 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Have you ever wondered how celebrities look so beautiful after long flights? Well, I certainly have! Here are some tips to help keep you looking refreshed and rested after stepping off the airplane.

Click here to

The How-To Lounge: Perfect Self Tanning

DearSugar — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 13:00:00 -0700

Spring is fast approaching or very much arrived for some of us. It's a fine time to discuss self tanners and how to avoid those orange hands and streaks. Follow along and get a glow that says weekend jaunt in Mexico, not 60-watt bulb in the bathroom.

Click here to

Dear Poll: How Comfortable Are You in Your Own Skin?

DearSugar — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 12:30:00 -0800

This week is National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, and our own FitSugar has been running an important series of posts throughout the week about this serious health crisis.Even if we're fortunate enough to be healthy, many of us still struggle -- and mightily -- with body image and beauty issues. Many of us spend a good deal of time worrying about our looks and comparing ourselves to other women, whether they're in magazines, on TV, or across the street.Even if we appropriately esteem our minds and our hearts, our friendships and families, it can be trickier to feel as sure about our body, our behind or our face. Let me know how comfortable you are in your own skin.Source

Dear Poll: How Comfortable Are You in Your Own Skin?

I'm absolutely happy in my own body.

While I don't feel like a great beauty, I still feel good about myself.

Some days are better than others; it's a challenge.

Mostly I wish I looked different, prettier, or thinner.

See my comment below!

You Don't Need Permission to . . .

DearSugar — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 09:00:00 -0800

. . . look like yourself instead of looking like everyone else.

Source

Eye Feel Pretty

DearSugar — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 08:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I have extremely dark eyes and they change color all the time. They are mainly dark brown, but sometimes when I look in the mirror, I can't see a difference between my pupil and my iris. Is that normal? Starry Eyed Elizabeth

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Beauty Lies Within

DearSugar — Mon, 22 Jan 2007 10:38:51 -0800

Dear Sugar
I have this overwhelming feeling that I am ugly all the time. I sit in front of the mirror and over analyze my face, I hate my nose and feel like I have gotten fat. People tell me this isn't true, but I always think they are lying. During college, I graduated three years ago, I used to do some modeling but I never understood why they asked me.

My boyfriend tells me everyday that he thinks I am beautiful but if he forgets, or if my friends don't think I look cute, which they do most of the time, I get so upset and assume I look terrible which ends up ruining my night. A million times a day I find myself comparing myself to other girls and I am paranoid that my boyfriend wishes I were someone else.

It has gotten to the point that when we have sex, I wonder if he is thinking about other girls. I have contemplated plastic surgery. Has anyone else ever felt this way; and what do you think I should do to fix my ailing self esteem? Down in the Dumps Diandra

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A Waxy Mess

DearSugar — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 12:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
My new boyfriend bought me a weekend getaway for Christmas and we are leaving this Friday. As a surprise for him, I've decided to get my first bikini wax. After picking the brains of all of my girlfriends, I knew exactly what to ask for from my waxer, but I was horrified when I saw the end result.

Not only do I look like a porn star, but my legs and bikini area now have serious ingrown hairs and huge red bumps that look awful. I wanted to look sexy for my boyfriend but instead I'm afraid I am going to scare him off! Do you have any recommendations to mend my situation before the weekend? Bearing All Beth

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DEARSUGAR's Guide To San Francisco

DearSugar — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 07:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I am taking my first trip to San Francisco this weekend and I was wondering if you could help with an itinerary. What are the "must see" sights? I am also shopaholic and I am definitely interested in finding out where all of the hot shops, hotels, restaurants and insider secret spots are! Born to Shop Sienna

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Cat Walk Queen

DearSugar — Mon, 01 Jan 2007 12:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I am currently rehearsing for an upcoming fashion show in my hometown. Do you have any tips to help make me look like a confident pro when I walk down the runway? Cat Walk Catie

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Arrivederci Acne Scars!

DearSugar — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 11:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I am trying to overcome acne so I wash my face everyday with a cocoa butter bar and I use cocoa butter lotion. I've also cut out all sodas from my diet because I've heard they contribute to oily skin. Since I've started this regimen, my skin has cleared some, but I still have random scattered pimples.

However, since I do have less pimples than before, I've been noticing that now I these scar type dark spots on my face where my old blemishes once were. They make it look like my skin is marked and infected. My mother has recently purchased a bleach cream that is supposed to get rid of these kinds of dark spots, but I am reluctant to use it on my face because I have worked so hard to get my skin to the place it is now.

Since my skin is still not 100% pimple free, I'm wondering what you think my next steps should be to try and attain clear skin. Do you think that I should try this bleach cream? Also, should I be continuing my use of cocoa butter bars and lotions? Imperfect Illy

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Clothes Horse

DearSugar — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 10:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I recently moved into an apartment with my best friend. We have been like sisters since the fifth grade and we are both so excited to be roommates. When we were talking about getting a place together, I jokingly said "how fun, we will now have twice as many clothes!"

Well, I guess when I said that, my friend too it just a little bit too literally. We have only been living together for a few months and while I sincerely don't mind her borrowing my things, I would just appreciate being asked or informed about it.

On numerous occasions, I have come home from work to see her wearing not one item of mine, but entire outfits head to toe! When I try and gather my clothes back I usually find them flung on her floor, or in her closet in a ball in the corner...and never dry cleaned.

All I ask is that she return my things that night to my room, and ask before she takes something so I know what she has and I can plan on not wearing it. How do I approach this situation without causing tension between us? Irritated Angie

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Off To The Big Apple

DearSugar — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 08:14:15 -0800

Dear Sugar
Next fall, I will be moving to New York City to attend college. Even though I would love to be able to take all of my clothes with me, I've heard that the dorm rooms were small and the closet space was almost non existant. Could you suggest some key items that will help me survive the big apple while still being stylish? College Bound Beatrice

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Ingrowns Are A B*tch

DearSugar — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 12:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
Being a woman sometimes is a total bummer. All of the waxing, plucking, and tweezing, oh my! I feel like a dog who goes for various weekly grooming appointments. I have a horrible time shaving my bikini line because of razor burn and all of my painful and not to mention ugly ingrown hairs.

I went the waxing route a few times which was not as painful as I had expected, but how do you maintain a smooth bikini line between waxes? It seems pretty weird that you have to let it full grow out for so many weeks. I am going to be in a bathing suit this January and was wondering if you had any tips for me. Razor Burn Brooke

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Model Envy

DearSugar — Sat, 16 Dec 2006 13:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I couldn't wait to watch this year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. They always put on a great performance and I love watching the glamorous girls in their fabulous lingerie on the runway. However, when it comes to watching it, I felt like I did when I caught my ex cheating on me.

I get that gross nauseated feeling in the pit of my stomach...yet I am unable to turn away. Those beautiful women do quite a number on my self-esteem as I know I could never be as beautiful as them. Am I taking this too seriously? Uptight Ursula

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Skin Deep

DearSugar — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 08:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I have extremely sensitive skin and have recently started to break out on my arms and on my back. Do you have any advice as to what products I should use and which products I should avoid to prevent further break outs? Pimpled Paula

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Say Cheese

DearSugar — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 10:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I recently had photos taken for a job application at one of the more expensive photo studios where I live. The cost of the session was a stretch for me, but I really wanted the pictures to be amazing and make a great first impression.

While the photographer and I went through the shots individually during the one hour session, I was not exactly thrilled with the results and had to settle with two pictures that I really didn't like. I picked up the final photos yesterday and while I thought I was being over critical of myself, I was again disappointed.

I am thinking about getting my photos taken again, however, paying full price at the same studio will cut deeply into my budget. Is it possible or common to ask for a discounted second session? Is it even wise to go back to the same studio since I was left disappointed? What would you suggest I do? Unhappy Heidi

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A Little More Burly And Now I'm Curly

DearSugar — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 10:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I just turned 35 and over the past three years I have put on roughly 20 lbs. Since my weight gain, my hair has drastically changed and is now coarse and curly. I've always had a little bit of a wave to it, but nothing like this. My hair used to grow like a weed and now it feels like forever in between my haircuts. Is there any connection between my weight gain and my hair? Hair Bent Becky

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I Need A New Tooth!

DearSugar — Sat, 02 Dec 2006 13:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I know I seem completely vain, but I recently had my left front bicuspid tooth pulled. Basically it's the tooth right behind the "fang" tooth and is visible when I grin. I'm left with a gaping hole where it once was and it is quite depressing.

I used to be known for my warm smile and now my smile is hideous. I didn't think it was going to look this terrible, but the hole is enormous. I am definitely afraid of what my boyfriend and friends are going to think when they see me.

I am trying to look on the bright side of things. I know this isn't the end of the world, but because it's so evident I can't help but feel down. At the moment, I really can't afford a tooth replacement, so I'm wondering if there are any alternatives that you know about? Toothless Thalia

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DEARSUGAR NEEDS YOUR HELP: Is Tooth Whitening For Me?

DearSugar — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 14:00:00 -0800

DEARSUGAR and Stained Stephania need your help. She is looking for the best tooth whitening system around. Since tooth whitening is so popular right now, I thought you might be able to help her out. Who has tried at home products and who has had professional treatments?

I know this one is for the readers to answer, however I have just consulted my dentist who recommends speaking with a professional (this can be done during your cleaning) to assess your smile. Not everyone has teeth that bleaching systems will work on, especially if they your teeth are a grayish or dark yellow color.

Also, it is recommended that you consider some sort of maintenance plan that will up keep the color after the initial brightening process is finished. This only needs to be done every five to eight weeks if you would like the whitening results to last.

Dear Sugar
I am searching for the best tooth whitening system out there. There are so many different options both at the dentist and at home that it's difficult for me to decipher between all of them. I don't have tons of money to spend on this, but I would like to see some serious results if possible.

I was born lacking enamel on some teeth and had braces for almost five years. Since I had the braces, it was hard to get my toothbrush to my teeth, causing my teeth to turn yellow. On top of that, I drink coffee and smoke (although I'm down to just a single cigarette a day).

I am sure you can imagine the toll that all of this has taken on my teeth. Smiling is becoming embarrassing for me, especially when I talk to strangers. I'm in desperate need of some whitening - do you think that you guys could possibly help me out? Stained Stephania

DEARSUGAR NEEDS YOUR HELP: Look Hot And Make Her Hate You

DearSugar — Mon, 27 Nov 2006 14:00:00 -0800

DEARSUGAR and Ravishing Raven need your help. She is going to be at an event with a woman who is trying to steal her boyfriend from her and she needs to look killer yet classy. Ladies, how can we help her out here? I know you've all got a few tricks up your sleeve to help keep your man's eyes on you all night long.

Dear Sugar
This weekend I am going to be seeing my boyfriend's ex at an upcoming event. Since we have been together, she has tried her darndest to break us up. Thank goodness it it hasn't worked in the slightest, but nevertheless, I am not looking forward to this next encounter.

I really want to appear confident and classy when I see her, but I confess that I am pretty nervous about it. Do you have any suggestions how I can come off looking classy and elegant but at the same time radiate my sexuality? I am not afraid of even looking a little bit intimidating.

I am planning on using the 'kill her with kindness' approach, but I don't want to come off as insecure, fake, or jealous in any way. I think that feeling and looking gorgeous is going to give me the confidence that I need. What should I say to her? Please help me pull this off. Ravishing Raven

How Can I Cope With My Competitive Friend?

DearSugar — Thu, 23 Nov 2006 10:30:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
One of my oldest and dearest friends always competes with me. We were pregnant at the same time and for nine months, I always felt like she was trying to one up me. After every doctor's appointment, she would always ask me how much weight I had gained. I ended up gaining much less than her but when she tells the story, she says we were pound for pound the whole time.

After we both gave birth, my friend would say how she was "swimming" in her clothes and how much weight she had lost, rubbing in the size of her jeans. We happen to wear the same size but have very different looks, no better or worse, just different. If that wasn't enough, she then joined the same gym as me, started taking the same exercise classes, she took up tennis like me, etc...

I am so fed up with her need to compete with me. We are friends and I don't understand why she just can't be herself. I am beyond irritated with her but I don't know how to talk to her about this. Am I overreacting? Annoyed Annie

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DEARSUGAR's Guide To Decoding Dress Codes

DearSugar — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 12:00:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
My boyfriend and I have been invited to his office holiday party and the invitation reads "business casual". I am a teacher and have no dress code so I am not familiar with what this means. Can you help me figure out what "business casual" implies for a woman? Also, on a more general note, what are the rules when following directions about dress codes on invitations? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Clueless Claire

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How To Get Rid Of Milia

DearSugar — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 12:25:57 -0800

Dear Sugar
I have five milia on my chin and I desperately want them to go away. Every time I think I have finally gotten rid of them, they come back. Do you know of any way to stop this from recurring and get rid of them once and for all? Irritated Irene

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Help! I Am An Excessive Sweater

DearSugar — Wed, 08 Nov 2006 10:53:15 -0800

Dear Sugar
I am an 18 year old girl who suffers from excessive sweating in my armpits. I sweat through all my t-shirts and have sweat stains that are embarrassing and impossible to hide. When it is warm outside, I am too embarrassed to raise my arm in class because my sweat stains are so noticeable.

I have gone to see my doctor and have an appointment to meet with a surgeon, but in the meantime, is there anything I can do to keep my sweating under control? I would like to be able to wear a t-shirt without feeling grossed out or self conscious. Sweat Stained Stella

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DEARSUGAR NEEDS YOUR HELP: The Best Bra To Boost My B Cups

DearSugar — Mon, 30 Oct 2006 13:12:48 -0800

DEARSUGAR and Small Chested Chelsea need your help. She is looking for the perfect cleavage boosting bra that will also give ample lift to her B-cups. Do you know of any exceptional breast enhancing bras?

Dear Sugar
I am a B cup girl who is trying to find the best push up bra available for those nights when I really want to look hot and sexy. I recently tried on all the available push-up bras at Victoria's Secret, but I found that they still didn't push up my small breasts quite enough.

I know that it's possible to get cleavage because small-cupped stars like Paris Hilton and Kate Hudson will sometimes emerge with super stack! I read in an article a long time ago that this effect can sometimes be achieved by wearing two bras at once. Do you guys have any ideas on what bra I can wear to achieve maximum push-up? Small Chested Chelsea

How Can I Clear Up My Eczema?

DearSugar — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 08:00:00 -0700

Dear Sugar
I am a 30 year old woman with eczema. I've had it all of my life and I want nothing more than to get it under control. My face is especially prone to outbreaks. Can you tell me a little bit about it and what I can do to clear it up? Bumpy Bree

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