I worked for a major cosmetic company, and women would try to find a moisturizer that would get rid of 20 or 30 years of smoking, sunbathing, and drinking alcohol. That product does not exist, and it never did. Of course, counter girls don’t tell customers that their products are basically worthless, except in adding a little moisture to their skin.

Instead of making false promises, let’s take pride in our skin just as it is. As women age, they gain experience, practical knowledge and usually a healthier view of themselves and their accomplishments. These qualities are far more important than crow’s-feet around the eyes. Even Hollywood has started to embrace silver hair on many men and women.

In Europe, most women wear very little makeup, and they look radiant at all ages. They’re well aware that a clean, healthy look is attractive. They also know that they can’t get rid of sags, wrinkles or other imperfections with a cream.

So, I hope that one day, the manufacturers of cosmetics will encourage women to take care of their skin, but not expect unrealistic results.

— Sharon B., Monessen, Pennsylvania

Unhealthy foods to avoid

DEAR HELOISE: It’s no secret that Americans are gaining weight at an alarming rate. There are foods we eat that are unhealthy for us and seem to be everywhere. An occasional bowl of ice cream isn’t too bad, but that treat added together with the other things we eat make for an unhealthy diet. Here are a few items to avoid or enjoy only as a rare treat:

• Fried foods: Not only are they very unhealthy, they can eventually cause people to gain weight.

• Potato chips: This is sheer junk food and a diet buster.

• Hydrogenated fats: Sadly, these are everywhere — in our fast food, butter and commercial baked goods.

• Corn syrup: It’s found in far too many foods and beverages.

• Processed meats: These are high in fats and unhealthy preservatives.

— Fiona J., Nutritionist in Chicago