These funny-looking socks are a godsend for some people — especially people who hike, run or walk a lot.
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Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Your recent reader question about wearing socks with sandals reminded me of a sock question I’ve been wanting to ask you. What do you know about toe socks — socks that are constructed like gloves so each toe has its own individual compartment? What are they good for? I saw some in a store for the first time recently and I don’t get it. Why would anybody want them? P.S. They weren’t cheap!
— Philip B.
Dear Philip: Actually, these funny-looking socks are a godsend for some people — especially people who hike, run or walk a lot. They prevent blisters and “hot spots” between the toes, which afflict more people than you might imagine, including me. I used to have to put Band-Aids on each individual toe before going out for a run until a friend told me about toe socks, which solved the problem right away. They come in a variety of weights, fibers and styles (hidden, no-show, ankle, crew) starting at around $14 a pair for good quality. I tend to stick with injinji brand (injinji.com) because the $7 ones I bought at a discount store were flimsy and pretty useless. Yes, they’re a bit of a pain to put on. But they take much less time and effort than Band-Aids.
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I have light-colored “peach fuzz” on my face. I have tried depilatories but they burn and smell horrible. The hair is really fine, hardly like hair at all. It isn’t that noticeable except in bright sun but I am super self-conscious about it. Can you recommend a product that would help me deal with this problem?
— Eva A.
Dear Eva: You’ve got a few good options and I’ve tested them all. But if you have any doubt or misgivings about any, check with a professional (a dermatologist or a trained facialist). There’s waxing, or sugaring with heated “paste.” Also, threading (an expert uses two twisted cotton threads to remove the fuzz) or dry shaving with either a battery-operated or rechargeable gizmo (around $20 on amazon.com) or specially designed, gentle facial razors (aka dermaplaning tool; $7 for 5, amazon.com). Of these, I prefer the least expensive, the hand-held shaving tool: painless and efficient but definitely not for readers with very sensitive skin. Always do a small test area beforehand.
Angelic Readers 1
For the reader who needed a repair for her valuable Bottega Veneta purse, Maureen L. writes, “I recently needed a handbag repair and was guided by the manufacturer to repairsbylinda.com. Linda was great to work with — quick and reasonable estimate and beautiful repair.” Kathy M. says, “Consider Rago Brothers (ragobrothers.com). They offer excellent mail-in service and helpful telephone calls. I send them my very finest shoes and purses for dying, repair and general cleaning. They call you with the cost for your approval before starting the work. Pricey but worth it.” Helen M. uses Art Bag (artbag.com): “They are famous for repairing and restoring high-end bags to original condition.”
Angelic Readers 2
Jerry S. has a novel use for eyeliner that never, ever occurred to me: “I use it to outline my beard when shaving. That way I have guide lines that help me keep it shaped the way I want it.”
Angelic Readers 3
Many readers told me about their favored safety chain solution to prevent losing bracelets because of a faulty clasp. While I mentioned this idea in passing, I’m not a fan because I think these catch on clothing and break easily. Karin S. recommends them: “Add a small safety chain in addition to the clasp so if the clasp lets loose, the bracelet stays on the wrist. A jeweler can attach one for you.” Elaine S. also is a fan.
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