If you think that looking old is a downer this post and the article that prompted it is for you. However, if this advice makes you feel like you are the second sex, the discussion may also be interesting for you. Argument is useful in these cases, especially when it is online and anonymous.

Charla Krupp, who wrote the essential 2008 bestseller “How Not to Look Old”, says appearing younger and hip is even more important in tough economic times. “When I wrote [my book] I cared about women staying in their jobs longer. Now that everybody is being let go, women need to have a competitive edge.”

That doesn’t just mean working harder – it means not looking dated. “No one wants to work with old ladies!” exclaims Krupp, appearing anything but in her chic print dress with her glowing skin. “It’s not like you’re trying to look like you’re 20 years old,” she says. “You just want to look fresh, current and ageless. You want to look modern.” You definitely don’t want to look what she calls OL (Old Lady).

Apparently inspired by Charla, Lois Draegin wrote an article in MSN Lifestyle today, which sparkled an interesting debate.

My personal favorite tips are:

• Don’t wear reading glasses on a chain around your neck.
• Don’t use think pink lipstick.
• Groom your eyebrows.
• Buy new bras.
• Skip plastic surgery.

I can certainly see why the article caused some anger in the comments. In addition to many other controversial statements, Krupp’s advice may cost over $5,000 to start with, and most of the components will last you for a day. Not a very smart investment!

LaserOffers.com Advice

Laser photorejuvenation (3-4 sessions at $250-300 each) will deliver a much more profound effect on your face, looks and self esteem, which will last years. Read the article and tell us what you think.

For many contemplating cosmetic surgery, there’s a search for an answer to “Am I doing the right thing?”

Beyond concerns of being accused of vanity, those with strong religious views may… Read the full story and express your views.

According to results of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s annual Procedural Survey, there was a two percent decrease in the number of male patients of cosmetic surgeons in 2008. On the other hand, 29 percent more females visited a cosmetic surgeon during the year.

Medical NewsToday quoted AACS President Patrick McMenamin, M.D., as saying, “For the time being, males and females are beginning to separate themselves in regards to cosmetic surgery. It used to be that the yearly percentage gain in males was matching that of the women, but now women are choosing to invest in themselves while men have reduced the desire to have cosmetic surgery. The economy, of course, plays a role in the scaling back of cosmetic procedures, but the advancement and effectiveness of less-invasive procedures has also boosted the industry for women.”

Advertising for cosmetic surgery overseas is popping up everywhere and pricing is significantly cheaper. How effective and safe are these outfits?

Cosmetic tourism is a multi-million dollar industry. Marketing hype such as “Enjoy Fabulous Rainforest Vacation While Recovering From Your Tummy Tuck!” ignores the realities of medical standards and safety.

Long flights, particularly when combined with anaesthesia, have an unacceptable risk of the potentially lethal condition thrombo-embolism. In addition, lack of cohesive follow-up, being alone in a faraway country with its language and cultural barriers and other issues associated with travelling can be overwhelming. Medical malpractice claims are also rare in Latin America, Thailand or India.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery overseas there are things you should ensure first:

1) Your surgeon is well trained, reputable and you have met him prior to the surgery.
2) That the operation you are having is the right one for you not just the “menu de chef”.
3) That the operation is being performed in a safe environment and any prostheses used (such as breast implants) are of the highest quality.
4) That appropriate after-care is in place.

There are no guarantees with any surgery. A fact of life is the requirement from time to time for revisions to obtain the best possible result from your procedure. Who will be responsible for even minor adjustments as required? Think of your medical journey more as a business trip than a leisure junket. Your normal travel insurance will not cover you for problems related to surgery.

LaserOffers.com team has done some research and we have found a large number of scammy ads in the U.S. Among legitimate offers Cosmetic Harmony came first in our due diligence review.

Review their offers (click the banner) but do your own research and request quotes from others.