Beauty Beat: Hot Rich Men and Sun Damage

Healthy, Wealthy, And Unwanted

The hidden cost of chiseled jowls and choice jobs.

Many women claim their ideal mate is handsome and financially successful, but as it turns out, a high income may actually diminish a stunning man's appeal. Although facial attractiveness signifies strong genes and high socioeconomic status implies an ability to provide for a family, women may avoid picking long-term partners who possess both traits together, according to a recent paper in Personality and Individual Differences. Female participants were asked to rate photos of attractive, average, and unattractive males based on their appeal as lifelong companions. Personal ads suggesting high, medium, or low levels of wealth accompanied the photos. Although researchers predicted that those in the attractive, well-off group would receive the top ratings, women preferred the good-looking guys of medium, rather than high, financial standing. The study's authors suggest that women are wary of entering into partnerships with eye-catching men of means because these guys are likely to be desired by other females, which may increase the likelihood they'll be unfaithful. So should hunks climbing the corporate ladder despair of meeting a mate? Lead researcher Simon Chu says no. "Partners of highly attractive, high-status men may just need a little more reassurance than the partners of other guys."

Tuning in to Skin Tone

There's more to age defiance than avoiding wrinkles.

Wrinkles and fine lines aren't the only facial cues men use to gauge a woman's age. Research published in the Journal of Evolution and Human Behavior reveals that uneven skin tone can make a woman look 12 years older. The researchers suggest that skin tone, independent of facial topography, offers clues to a woman's physiological condition—and her nubility. They also offer a word of caution to chronic sunbathers: Cumulative UV damage greatly increases inconsistencies in skin pigmentation. Tan now, pay later.

Out, Damned Sunspots

Three ways to avoid sun-damaged skin.

• Before Sunning:

  Neutrogena Healthy Defense Oil-Free Sunblock Lotion, SPF 45. Walgreens.com; $9.49

  Protects against UVA and UVB rays and contains antioxidants to safeguard skin from free radical damage. Apply liberally to face and body daily.

• After Sunning:

  Retinol (vitamin A) and Green Tea Wrinkle Treatment Creme from Derma E. Dermae.com; $19.50

  Blends retinol, an activator of cellular renewal, with antioxidant-rich green tea meant to fade age spots, smooth texture, and protect skin. Apply daily.

• Instead of Sunning:

  Kiehl's Sun-Free Self-Tanning Formula.
  Kiehls.com; $22.50

  Apply to face and body for a natural-looking tan. The lightweight lotion absorbs instantly, doesn't streak, and moisturizes. Color develops within an hour.