Several recent developments have prompted this revision of Chase’s: technological breakthroughs, such as low-magnification photography, in evaluating skin (e.g., measuring pore size and growth rate of skin cells) and hair; new treatments (especially regarding moisturizers and acne medicines); and mandatory ingredient-labeling of all cosmetics. 

          To make the most of this influx of information and products, Chase, a medical researcher, walks her readers through a wide range of treatments (some homemade) for maintaining optimum condition of skin, hair, nails and teeth. Every section concludes with a brand-name buying guide, and a glossary of common beauty product ingredients is equally valuable. But for all its helpfulness, the new edition can be slow going. Chase has apparently taken "no nonsense" to mean "no personality" — little of the latter surfaces in her blandly evenhanded prose. Though the author’s potentially refreshing no-frills approach is unusual, in Chase’s hands the fun of looking pretty becomes but a sensible chore — like flossing regularly.