Author Archives: By ABBY ELLIN

Skin Deep: Expanding Efforts to Keep Cosmetics Testing From Animals

Even a “cruelty-free” label adopted by some cosmetics companies doesn’t have a universal meaning.

Skin Deep: Assessing Those Laser, Pulsing-Light and Sonic Skin Care Products for Home Use

The market for laser, light-pulsing and sonic skin care treatments to be used at home is growing.

When a Child’s Anxieties Need Sorting

Dr. Harold Koplewicz at Child Mind Institute, his children’s mental health center on Park Avenue.Dr. Harold Koplewicz says that his main mission in life is to remove any stigma from mental illness among children and teenagers, as he raises money for his center.

Skin Deep: Tattoos as Makeup? Read the Fine Print

Some women are pleased with the results. Others complain of allergic reactions, infections and poorly trained technicians.

At the Beach With | Dana Brown: The Endless Film Reel

At 50, Dana Brown, the surfer and filmmaker, is riding a wave with his latest movie, “Highwater.”


A Day Out With | Eddie Izzard: Visiting Ellis Island With Eddie Izzard

Eddie Izzard runs for charity and plans a run for Parliament.Eddie Izzard feels a bond with immigrants who endured Ellis Island to become Americans.


Skin Deep: Forget Jenny Craig. Hit the Drive-Thru.

Taco Bell and other fast-food businesses have jumped on the reduced-calorie bandwagon, but experts have conflicting opinions on whether fast food is a healthy dieting tool.


Seeking a Cure for Optimism

Dr. David Spiegel says his research shows that breast-cancer victims don’t live significantly longer because of positive support.The power of positive thinking is under assault, with a number of writers and researchers questioning the notion that looking on the bright side makes much of a difference.


Skin Deep: A Few Cookies a Day to Keep the Pounds Away?

Cookie diets are popular, but critics say the weight-loss plans are neither effective nor healthy.


Fitness: Exercise Tailored to a Hijab

Loretta Riggs and her daughter, Sarah Al-Abassi, at a park outside Pittsburgh.Muslim women face particular challenges in keeping fit and upholding principles about modesty.