Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Robinson didn't bring anything new to the table as far as beauty insider "dirt" goes, and although Robinson's book did have some good, basic information about skin care and procedures, once again, there was nothing new. If you're reasonably well-informed, you'll find yourself skimming and skipping over large sections of the book. As for Robinson's brand name product recommendations, they are there more as a token than any sort of meaningful guide. Despite my lukewarm reaction to the book, I'm sure there are some ladies who will find some helpful information and so I was willing to give it two stars. Where I really part ways with Robinson; however, is when it comes to her edicts regarding makeup. First, a little background: Robinson along with makeup genius Kevyn Aucoin created Ultima II's successful line called The Nakeds. Back in the early 80's, The Nakeds was a refreshing departure from all the bright colors that dominated a woman's makeup arsenal. I loved it and wore many of the beautiful neutral shades for awhile. But that was then and this is now. Today, The Nakeds seems old fashioned and one dimensional because makeup has evolved, but Robinson hasn't. Robinson is, and obviously always has been, a proponent of makeup that is practical, minimal, and neutral. There is nothing wrong with that except she believes ALL women 50+ MUST adhere to HER esthetic if they want to look attractive. That kind of approach simply isn't true and doesn't take into account the individual needs and attributes of women no matter their age. For example, she says all any woman needs to have is one eye palette in shades of brown for dark eyes or shades of gray for light eyes--nothing else; no color whatsoever, no shimmer, no sparkle. Where's the fun? Where's the joie de vivre? Where's individual expression? I'd never advocate a woman my age ringing her eyes with vibrant glittery colors, but I think it is perfectly possible to work a bit of color and a hint of shimmer with our neutrals so that we look fashionable without trying too hard. But then, I'm nudging seventy so maybe I'm just in the throes of a second childhood! LOL Anyway, Robinson takes the same my-way-or-the-highway approach to other color cosmetics as well. You know the "Toss the Gloss" in the title? That refers to her oft repeated edict that no women over fifty should ever wear lipgloss of any kind. Despite all Robinson's talk about celebrating who we are and our unique beauty, she then tells us throughout the book that we must do this or that in accordance with her beauty rules or we risk looking like "crypt-keepers"! Yes, "crypt-keepers". Those are Robinson's words; not mine. Now, here's the kicker: Robinson puts forth the notion that makeup should not be used to recapture the appearance of youth; rather it should be used to enhance our aging features. OK so far. But, after giving us a bunch of rules that ignore our individuality and which are guaranteed to fade us into neutrality, she herself owns up to having had a face lift! I have absolutely no issue with cosmetic procedures tastefully done, but Robinson seems hypocritical to decry the use of makeup to regain a more youthful appearance, but then embrace cosmetic surgery to do the same thing. All considered, I wouldn't advise anyone to pay full price for this. Wait until it hits the libraries or buy it used.