The Unspeakableby Meghan Daum (Farrar, Straus and Giroux)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Well-crafted personal essays

Why it's worth the read: Nobody writes quite like Daum. Her precision with words, her quiet observations of life's everyday challenges, the way she captures moments of heartbreak alongside sentences laced with humor (even in her darkest essays) — it's no wonder people couldn't wait for this book, her sophomore collection of essays since her debut, My Misspent Youth, back in 2001.

Live Through Thisby Anwen Crawford (Bloomsbury)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: '90s-era Courtney Love

Why it's worth the read: Love her or hate her, we all knew there was enough material out there for a book on Courtney Love — and this is it. In Live Through This, Australian music critic Anwen Crawford dives deep into the LP that placed Hole on the music map. Bring on the babydoll dresses, lipstick, and wild blonde hair.

Almost Famous Womenby Megan Mayhew Bergman (Scribner)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Historical short stories on lesser-known famous women

Why it's worth the read: Bergman delivers imagined stories based on real, fascinating women in history and shines a spotlight on them for a swift, but deserved moment. Get to know ladies like James Joyce's disturbed daughter, Oscar Wilde's adventurous niece, famed painter Romaine Brooks, and nine other characters who will no doubt leave you inspired.

Binary Starby Sarah Gerard (Two Dollar Radio)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Heavy drama whipped up in poetic prose

Why it's worth the read: In this fictionalized love story about two troubled young people dealing with eating disorders and drug abuse, Gerard weaves real-life social issues into an otherworldly tale, in which the vast universe above serves as a guiding force in the pursuit for clarity.

The Girl on the Trainby Paula Hawkins (Riverhead)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: High-impact thrillers

Why it's worth the read: When Rachel sees something she cannot unsee on her train commute, she gets entangled in a suspenseful mystery involving a beautiful couple and their secrets. It's easy to see why this page-turner is being compared to both Gone Girl and Hitchcock's Rear Window.

The First Bad Manby Miranda July (Scribner)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: The uncomfortably squeamish brilliance of Miranda July

Why it's worth the read: You know why. It's written by Miranda July, so you know it's got all the good stuff — strange characters, awkward love scenes, bizarre plot twists, and a whole lotta heart.

Unbecomingby Rebecca Scherm (Viking)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Seriously badass, psycho-genius chicks

Why it's worth the read: Grace is on the lam (in Europe, no less) after she single-handedly orchestrates a heist that lands two dudes in jail. Her backup plan? Assume a whole new identity. We won't be surprised if Scherm's insane debut gets turned into a movie.

We Mammals in Hospitable Timesby Jynne Dilling Martin (Carnegie Mellon Poetry Series)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Poems that punch

Why it's worth the read: In 2013, Martin spent six weeks in Antarctica at a residency where she lived amongst penguins and arctic scientists, and practiced yoga on glaciers. What she took away from that transformative experience inspired this collection of poems, full of wondrous glimpses into arctic wildlife.

Get in Troubleby Kelly Link (Random House)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Magical realism

Why it's worth the read: If dark surrealism is your jam, Link's latest collection of nine short stories is your ultimate ticket to escape, and will also send a few shivers down your spine. A ghost hunter, superheroes, mermaids, a creepy doll, and more — you bet they're all within these pages.

The Tutorby Andrea Chapin (Riverhead)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: All things Shakespeare

Why it's worth the read: In this historical fiction, Chapin imagines a world where Shakespeare became the reading tutor (and love interest) to an unassuming woman, who learned much more from the Bard than just words on a page.

The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girlby Issa Rae (37 Ink/Atria Books)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Self-effacing and empowering comedic essays

Why it's worth the read: Get to know Issa Rae before she really explodes. In addition to the recent release of her first book, the funny gal also received an HBO pilot order of Insecure, a TV show based on her hit web series (also titled The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl) about a quirky, modern-day African American woman navigating life.

Black Dog Summerby Miranda Sherry (Atria Books)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: The afterlife, a la The Lovely Bones

Why it's worth the read: If you're looking to have your heartstrings yanked, pick up this debut novel about a 38-year-old woman killed in a South African massacre who lingers on and peeks into the lives of those she left behind — her teenage daughter, her sister, brother-in-law, and niece — as they come to terms with the senseless murder.

The Unfortunate Importance of Beautyby Amanda Filipacchi (W. W. Norton & Company)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: A dark comedy about beauty

Why it's worth the read: The novel, about two best friends attempting to transform themselves — one is a homely pianist who attempts to beautify herself through her music, the other is a knockout who decides to don a fat suit — is loaded with commentary on the standards of beauty we live with. Oh, and there's also a murder mystery involved, too.

Girl in a Bandby Kim Gordon (Dey Street Books)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: The rock goddess that is Kim Gordon

Why it's worth the read: Iconic rocker chick Gordon tells it like it is, from the days of her youth in California, to the rise of her band Sonic Youth, to her marriage (and divorce) from husband/bandmate Thurston Moore, to the juggling act of being a mom, and everything else in between.

Lucky Alanby Jonathan Lethem (Doubleday)

When you can read it: Now

For people who enjoy: Radical, magical stories on-the-go

Why it's worth the read: Fans of Lethem know this much is true: The man is a masterful surrealist story teller. Don't be fooled by the slimness of his latest collection, though. Each of his nine strange stories here — about bookstore nerds, a trippy SeaWorld visit, an urban grave, and more — will transport you to other worlds, even for brief moments.

Love and Other Ways of Dyingby Michael Paterniti (The Dial Press)

When you can read it: March 3

For people who enjoy: Stories of life, loss, and the human spirit

Why it's worth the read: Despite the heaviness of its title, Paterniti's latest nonfiction stories are not as grim or depressing as you might think. After all, it would be impossible to talk about death without also celebrating the beauty of life.

Come as You Areby Emily Nagoski, PhD (Simon & Schuster)

When you can read it: March 3

For people who enjoy: Sex and ways to make it better

Why it's worth the read: It's the science of sex, decoded and demystified. Want to be educated on the latest findings about female genitalia? Of course you do. Empowering and sex-positive at best, this informative read makes for a enticing bedfellow.

A Little Lifeby Hanya Yanagihara (Doubleday)

When you can read it: March 10

For people who enjoy: The complexities of intense friendships

Why it's worth the read: This epic story is about four college friends, all following creative pursuits, who try to make something of their lives in NYC. The novel spans several decades, trailing the crew into their 50s, and delving deep into the heartache that comes when your friends become the loved ones that matter most.

Hausfrauby Jill Alexander Essbaum(Random House)

When you can read it: March 17

For people who enjoy: The unraveling of a woman's perfect life

Why it's worth the read: When Anna enters a state of ennui with her perfect life, husband, and kids, she pulls out her inner demons and shake things up with a string of affairs. But, what will her actions cost her? You'll have to read this novel to find out.

Motorcycles I've Lovedby Lily Brooks-Dalton (Riverhead)

When you can read it: April 7

For people who enjoy: Biker chicks

Why it's worth the read: In this adventure memoir, Lily Brooks-Dalton, a twentysomething in search of independence and meaning, takes us on the road as she travels around the country on her beloved hog.

The Folded Clockby Heidi Julavits (Doubleday)

When you can read it: April 7

For people who enjoy: Reading someone else's journal

Why it's worth the read: Heidi Julavits has worn many hats as a writer — she's the author of four novels, co-editor of last year's wondrous release Women in Clothes, and a founding editor of The Believer. This spring, Julavits, now in her 40s, turns to her younger self in The Folded Clock. The series of diary entries spans two years of her earlier life, and looks at a future life she imagined she might have had. A comforting read for those who welcome and embrace aging.

God Help the Childby Toni Morrison (Knopf)

When you can read it: April 21

For people who enjoy: Toni. Morrison.

Why it's worth the read: Be prepared to enter the world of Morrison once again. Family drama, child abuse, what it means to be black (and varying shades of it), love, murder: There's no one better than Morrison at crafting such epic and devastating tales.

The Memory Painterby Gwendolyn Womack (Picador)

When you can read it: April 28

For people who enjoy: Mind-bending plots

Why it's worth the read: It's the guy-meets-girl story as you've never heard it before. The guy is a famous painter whose work is inspired by his dreams of other people's memories (which he can hack into). The girl is a neurogeneticist, who just so happens to study that weird obscure phenomenon when brainwaves and memory-making abilities intersect. So, when the two meet, a mind-explosion of a journey ensues that involves time travel, mystery, love, and a whole lot of plot twists.

First Jobsby Merritt Watts (Picador True Tales)

When you can read it: April 28

For people who enjoy: Getting ahead in life

Why it's worth the read: Whether you're in need of a professional boost, looking to switch careers, or just starting to navigate the workforce, turn to this entertaining read on other people's first jobs. It also makes for a great graduation gift (wink, wink).

Why Grow Up?by Susan Neiman (Farrar, Straus and Giroux)

When you can read it: May 5

For people who enjoy: Arrested development (but want to get out of it)

Why it's worth the read: Though it's inevitable, aging is scary for many people — which is perhaps why you witness adults behaving like teenagers all too often. Philosopher Susan Neiman examines how travel, both literal and metaphorical, can help us understand maturity as an ideal, and guides readers to truly embrace the aging process.

The First Collection of Criticism by a Living Female Rock Criticby Jessica Hopper(Featherproof Books)

When you can read it: May 12

For people who enjoy: Music essays through a feminist lens

Why it's worth the read: Jessica Hopper has been in the music criticism game for years, and has had more than a few interesting things to say. If you're a fan of earlier female music-writers like Ellen Willis or Caroline Coon, pick up this new collection of essays from Hopper, who currently serves as an editor at Pitchfork. Revisit gems from pubs like The Village Voice, Spin, Chicago Reader, BuzzFeed, and more.

The Anchoressby Robyn Cadwallader(Sarah Crichton Books)

When you can read it: May 12

For people who enjoy: Being off the grid

Why it's worth the read: A young woman decides to leave the real world behind and devote herself to a life of solitude and religion. Follow 17-year-old Sarah as she sorts out her inner turmoil and discovers her self-imposed isolation can't protect her from the dangers of the world.

The Road In Is Not the Same Road Outby Karen Solie (Farrar, Straus and Giroux)

When you can read it: May 12

For people who enjoy: Daring, thought-provoking poetry

Why it's worth the read: For anyone who doesn't "get poetry," this one's for you. Solie's words, which tap into territories of existentialism in modern-day settings, are delivered in bite-sized portions that leave you both satisfied yet hungry for more.

My Paris Dreamby Kate Betts (Spiegel & Grau)

When you can read it: May 12

For people who enjoy: Fashion, the 1980s, and Paris

Why it's worth the read: This novel from a former Vogue and Harper's Bazaar editor is about a young, aspiring fashion journalist living in Paris in the '80s. So, it's bound to have all the good stuff on the City of Light — style notes, romance, and, of course, big dreams.

Make Something Up: Stories You Can't Unreadby Chuck Palahniuk (Doubleday)

When you can read it: May 26

For people who enjoy: The disturbing world of Chuck Palahniuk

Why it's worth the read: The stories are a bit like Grimm's Fairy Tales mixed with plausible events, involving characters you can likely relate to or recognize from your real life. You know, classic Palahniuk. For fans of Fight Club, there's even a short story about a young Tyler Durden you won't want to miss.

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Repost @eudoxiee Beautiful day on the beach ☀️☀️ Beautiful day indeed

A photo posted by @ludacris on Mar 1, 2015 at 11:52am PST

If you like piña coladas... Lol @letoyaluckett thinking of you with this one. Our favorite drink 😃

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I'm in love with my blonde hair!!! @traceycunningham1 you killed it with this color!!! 💋💋💋

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Clueless
Tai arrives at Bronson Alcott High School wearing flannels and Manic Panic-dyed locks, and with an “accent and vocabulary” sorely in need of a little help.

But, when Cher and Dionne give Tai a makeover to the dulcet tones of Jill Sobule’s “Supermodel,” Tai’s confidence soars to the point where she has the guts to win the heart of Josh, played by a sexy, young Paul Rudd (whose face, incidentally, looks exactly like that of current-day Paul Rudd) — temporarily, anyway.

The Hunger Games
“The girl on fire” ignites a revolution, and not just because her side-braid is bae as fuck.

With access to all the avant-garde beauty and fashion help The Capitol can offer, Katniss Everdeen transforms into a badass — albeit, rightfully reluctant — glamorous assassin and wins the hearts of the citizens of Panem.

She’s All That
Here’s one that wasn’t all that tragic to begin with, right? Laney is an unpopular, dorky art student who’s simply one pair of splattered overalls and a contact-lens prescription away from being super-hot.

Once she dons a red dress and Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me,” plays in the background, she earns the affection of one Mr. Freddie Prinze, Jr. A ‘90s coup if there ever was one.

Working Girl
Who can forget Staten Island native/admin assistant Tess shearing her own mullet and imitating her boss’ diction, leading her to enchant a young Harrison Ford and eventually land her own boss gig, complete with secretary?

This makeover was a self-imposed one, and it made all the difference. As Tess sagely said, “If you want to be taken seriously, you need to have serious hair.”

Pretty Woman
The impact of the famous “Big mistake. Huge.” line delivery would have been smaller if Vivian were still wearing her monokini top and thigh-highs, no?

In this makeover scene, a series of Marys putter around an early-'90s Julia Roberts to find her a wardrobe worthy of polo matches, escargot-noshing, and Richard Gere-seducing. Kissing on the mouth ensues.

Mean Girls
In this oft-quoted turn-of-the-millennium flick, Cady Heron morphs from safari-casual to teen queen in the span of a month, thanks to beauty and fashion stylings from the Plastics.

The whereabouts of Damien’s pink shirt, however, remain a mystery.

Heathers
This makeover was subtle on the outside, but highly transformational on the inside.

Veronica delves deeply into the best Crayola 8-pack hue for her (who in movie history had better branding than the three Heathers?) and simultaneously develops a casual relationship with morality after taking up with bad boyfriend of the century, J.D.

The Devil Wears Prada
It’s not accidental that the exact second Andy Sachs starts upping her fashion game, she starts excelling at her job. In this makeover, the magazine assistant evolves from Franco Sarto to Jimmy Choo and, in turn, makes over her life.

Meanwhile, everyone learned that, while effective, Emily’s diet of eating a cube of cheese when you feel as if you’re going to pass out will leave you with few flu-fighting nutrients — not to mention very, very catty.

The Breakfast Club
Saturday detention was a somber fate in pre-smartphone 1986, but being stuck with a motley crew of people from all possible high school “political parties” was an added complexity.

Claire Standish (named, perhaps, after famous pilgrim Miles Standish, which is a joke in and of itself) makes over “basket case” Allison using solely the contents of her purse, transforming the latter into an '80s equivalent of the definitive manic-pixie dream girl. Of course, Allison scores the jock in the end.

Miss Congeniality
Gracie snort-laughs, but her makeover from formidable FBI agent to pretty, pretty pageant princess is nothing short of incredible.

Plus, the movie gave us a great reason to appreciate April 25th #perfectdate.

Grease
We love that Frenchy not only takes on the makeover of the decade, she’s actually a professional — that is, until she famously becomes a beauty-school drop-out. We also love that she dropped back into high school to study chemistry with the intention of creating her own products.

This girl after our own hearts transformed a positively prissy Sandy into a leather pants-wearing sultry siren. Without the help of Frenchy and Marty (Maraschino, like the cherry) aiding her in proper cigarette disposal, would we still say, “Tell me about it, stud,” every time we don leather leggings? I think not.

Dirty Dancing
Baby emerges from the corner of LIFE when she dons some lipstick and a plunging neckline to fill in for Penny at the Sheldrake Hotel.

Penny acquaints Baby with show-worthy makeup, but her sister Lisa Houseman’s commitment to “beige. iridescent. lipstick.” is probably what initially inaugurated Baby into the beauty space. P.S. We’d trade a sound relationship with daddy for a summertime fling with Johnny Castle any day.

Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion
Serious question: Can you think of anyone on earth who was better dressed to consume a business woman’s special than Romy White and Michele Weinberger?

Even if they didn’t pull off the reunion heist of a lifetime, they still looked incredible doing it. But, of course, not as incredible as they did when they poured themselves back into the space-inspired plastic dresses designed by Michele for their hilariously earnest dance number at the end.

Can’t Buy Me Love
Here’s a male makeover that works almost too well. In need of cash to replace her mother’s white suede jacket, Cindy Mancini agrees to pretend she’s Ronald’s girlfriend to up his social standing at school in exchange for a loan.

After she like, invented him, he becomes a douche of epic proportions, egotistical about his new popularity. But, his progression from nerdy astronomy enthusiast to a budding future “McDreamy” is a metamorphosis to behold.

Legally Blonde
When Warner breaks up with her to pursue law school, Elle Woods arrives on campus looking like Malibu Barbie. But, soon after, she wises up and gets an Ivy League-style preppy makeover that helps her “totally look the part.”

We love that her hair and makeup remain California-girl strong, but chic glasses and textured sweaters in serious hues give her gravitas — enough to score an exclusive, coveted law-firm internship.

Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead
Teenage Sue Ellen’s ability to be “right on top of that, Rose” hinged directly on her impressive corporate look, created with pieces from her own mother’s closet.

In the span of a summer, Sue Ellen drops corporate lingo like “interfacing” with wild abandon, learns the harsh realities of laying off fellow employees like Franklin, and even hosts a neon-infused fashion show before finally getting caught posing as a Vassar grad divorcee.

Never Been Kissed
Josie Grossie’s first high school go-round was nothing short of tragic, and her undercover stint as a student when she was in her 20s started out much the same way.

But, thanks to an all-white outfit punctuated with a judicious use of feather boas, some makeup, and hair help from a high school clique headed up by a younger Jessica Alba, she not only lands a popular prom date, but wins the heart of adorable Mr. Coulson. Perhaps this makeover moment is what inspired Drew Barrymore to launch her fantastic makeup line, Flower?

Princess Diaries
A spry Anne Hathaway, sorely in need of a good keratin treatment, makes a transformation to a sleek and sophisticated princess, thanks to Paolo’s hard work.

One broken brush and an intentional glasses-smashing later, Mia emerged, the portrait of a poised princess. It’s amazing what a little brow grooming, makeup and hair help can do.

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The Castle, Dalian, China
Yes, a Bavarian fairy tale-like castle atop a mountain in China actually exists. Aptly titled The Castle, it’s one of the newest additions to Dalian’s luxury-hotel scene, and an extra place for the über-wealthy to add to their bucket lists.

Treehotel, Sweden
Fancy staying in a bird’s nest or in a UFO? At the Treehotel in North Sweden, either is a viable possibility, as guests can stay in one of six themed tree houses, which are all individually designed with contemporary decor and boast eco-friendly creds. There’s also a treetop sauna — cool!

Costa Verde, Quepos, Costa Rica
Looking like a scene out of Lost but actually a real place you can stay, the 727 Fuselage Home at Costa Verde is a 1965 vintage Boeing 727 transformed into a luxurious, two-bedroom hotel suite. The structure juts out 15 meters above ground, overlooking a jungle canopy and the sea in coastal Quepos, Costa Rica. Unique enough for you?

25Hours Hafencity, Hamburg, Germany
Located in the middle of Hamburg’s newly regenerated "Habour City," 25Hours Hafencity is a quirky hotel designed to mimic a ship by architecture firm Stephen Williams Associates. The 170 "cabins" have eccentric, maritime-themed furnishings, with rope ladders up the walls, packing trunks for shelving units, and illustrations of sailors’ tattoos on the wallpaper. The hotel’s conference room is a converted shipping container, making meetings more interesting, too. Plus, there’s complimentary bike rental and BMW Minis for cruising around town in style.

Adelphi Hotel, Melbourne, Australia
Considered the crème de la crème of Melbourne’s boutique hotels, Adelphi is super-stylish but sort of weird. Redeveloped in 2014 to be the world’s first dessert hotel (no, really), it has the smell of baking wafting through the lobby, furnishings that are chocolate-coloured, and stools designed like liquorice allsorts. Elsewhere, giant decals of a woman’s screaming face cover the walls of the bathrooms, bold monochrome zigzag carpets will make your eyes spin, and there’s a giant wire horse and cart in the lobby. Staying here is an experience you won't soon forget.

Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Here, you’ll wake up wondering why your cheek feels wet, before realizing it’s a giraffe licking your face. This is the only place in the world where you can pet giraffes through your bedroom window on the second floor — and that in itself is awesome, right? Giraffes roam the surrounding land, and guests can stroll around, feeding them at their leisure.

Das Park Hotel, Linz, Austria
Sleeping in sewage pipes genuinely sounds like our worst nightmare, but remarkably, Das Park Hotel in Austria has made the concept so appealing, people actually pay for it. Making good use of someone else’s junk, the ultra-hip hotel boasts a series of cabins made from segments of giant, old drainpipes that are scattered in a public park in Ottensheim. The cabins are about two meters wide, and the only window is a circular skylight at the top — perfect for those who like their privacy.

The Manta Resort, Pemba, Zanzibar Archipelago
Fancy spending the night submerged under water? Don’t worry, it’s all safe and leak-proof. At Tanzania’s unbelievable Manta Resort, a tri-level suite that floats in the middle of the sea, the master bedroom is a glass box, which is fully under water in an area of thriving coral reef off Pemba Island. Perfect for fulfilling those mermaid dreams.

Hotel Faralda, Amsterdam, Netherlands
How’s sleeping in a crane for unusual? If industrial vibes are your thing and you like your views panoramic, here in Amsterdam you can dangle from a 50-meter-tall maritime crane, in one of three stylish suites with plush furnishings and 360-degree views. There’s even a hot tub up there, too.

Backstage Vernissage, Zermatt, Switzerland
Swiss architect Heinz Julen has designed a glass-fronted stunner of a hotel, which stands out on the wintery slopes of ski resort Zermatt. All of the rooms feature eclectic designer decor and are completely open-plan, so you can pretty much lie on the sofa with your feet in the bath. The Cube Lofts up top are multilevel, with mezzanines, and are, as their name suggests, cleverly designed to be cubes within cubes.

Whitepod, Switzerland
For a truly different ski trip, venture to Whitepod, a series of 15 cozy, igloo-like pods that are situated 1,700 meters up on the slopes of the Swiss Alps. Each one has an en-suite bathroom, wood-burning stove, and traditional Alpine furnishings, along with super-eco credentials. To help them blend into their environment, in winter they’re covered with white canvas, and in summertime they’re changed to green.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
How to keep warm and cozy in ice-cold Finland in winter? Hide in an underground igloo! The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers a variety of different rooms, the quirkiest of which are the bunkers. They are built into the ground, with glass skylights — perfect for spotting the Northern Lights.

Room 47, Molja Lighthouse, Norway
Room 47 is the undeniably exclusive suite in Norway’s Brosundet Hotel, the only one located in the lighthouse at the end of a jetty. Those who book it can enjoy extreme privacy and peace and quiet, tucked away in their own tower. Only three meters wide, the lighthouse features a circular bedroom upstairs with a custom-made bed, and a compact yet elegant bathroom downstairs. Perfect for a kooky kind of honeymoon, right?

SleepIn FÆNGSLET, Horsens, Denmark
Opening in March 2015, SleepIn FÆNGSLET will offer guests an interesting and unusual experience, thanks to it being a former prison hospital. Appealing to some and probably not to others, the building has been rigorously restored into a modern hotel with 22 rooms, though the sense of its former self still very much remains. Ever wondered what it’s like to sleep in a cell?

Lie: I’ve told you everything I’m using on my skin.
This can be a lie of omission, but that doesn’t make it any less damaging. “The most important thing a patient can tell me is what she’s using on her skin,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. “If you’re not truthful about what you’re applying, I won’t be able to help you.”

Often the products you’re using can be the source of your skin issues, Dr. Zeichner says. Overdoing products can cause irritation; some ingredients can be interacting with each other; or, you could have an allergy. He suggests bringing in a bag of everything you put on your skin or writing a comprehensive list — make sure to include products you only use on occasion. “Toners, exfoliators, cleansers, sunscreens, masks, anti-aging products — include it all,” he says.

And, don’t forget to include any home remedies you’ve cooked up. One of the dermatologists we spoke to says she had a patient with severe acne who read about the benefits of oils. The patient made masks with Crisco as a treatment. Failing to mention that set her back at least a month of progress.

Lie: I’m using all the products you prescribed.
A rebellious streak doesn’t work for your skin. If your dermatologist or aesthetician has created a regimen for you, following it won’t make you less punk rock. Confess if you’re not using a product as often as instructed—or at all. “I’ll think a product didn’t work if you’re not truthful about how you used it,” Dr. Day says. “If I think the product failed, I might suggest a stronger one that could cause irritation, so I’m not able to give the best treatment.”

“When patients come back for an acne follow up and they say the medications aren’t working, I need to know why,” says Jeremy Green, MD, a dermatologist in Miami. “Tell me why you didn’t use it — is it too drying, does it smell too bad — and, I can find an alternative.”

Lie: I’m not on any other medications.
Do you have a medical degree? Unless you do, you can’t assume that you know which medications matter and which don’t, when it comes to your skin. “A lot of medicines can impact the skin — both OTC and prescription,” says Papri Sarkar, MD, a dermatologist in Brookline, Massachusetts. “Some things are obvious like acne medications and retinoids, but even supplements can affect my treatment.”

OTC medications can also cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Also, vitamin E, gingko biloba, garlic, fish oil, aspirin, and motrin all increase bleeding and should be discontinued before receiving injectables. “Patients may fib about taking a medication or supplement that could lead to bruising because they worry I wouldn’t do the injectable,” says New York City dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD. But, waiting a couple days is far more preferable than looking like you were in a bar fight.

Plus, some prescriptions like thyroid medication, antidepressants, oral steroids, and lithium can cause sun sensitivity, make you prone to acne or rosacea, and potentially interact with the medications a dermatologist would prescribe, Dr. Zeichner explains. That’s why it’s always wise to err on the side of too much information, even if you think your meds don’t have anything to do with your skin.

Lie: I haven’t touched it.
Right, and that’s your natural hair color. A doctor or aesthetician can always tell that you’ve done amateur surgery on your face. Tell your doctor what you did to that pimple or ingrown hair and save yourself the charade.

You need to be honest because your doctor needs to know what you did and how long ago to get a sense of what the problem was and how it’s healing. “I have patients lie about what they’ve done to a problem — usually a pimple or ingrown hair,” says Neal Schultz, MD, creator of BeautyRx skincare. “They’re usually embarrassed that they did the wrong thing,” he says. “But, I can’t fix the problem until you’ve owned up to what happened.

Schultz says he needs that info to decide if anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, or hyper pigmentation treatments — or, all of these — will help address your skin issues.

Lie: I don’t smoke.
“I think people don’t want to admit they smoke because they don’t want to reveal a flaw,” says Renee Rouleau, a celebrity aesthetician in Los Angeles and Dallas. “Or, clients don’t want to confess how much they’re really smoking.” Don’t let the fear of a lecture keep you from fessing up. “It’s my place to incorporate products that may negate the side effects of smoking,” Rouleau says.

Your skin experts need to know why a treatment isn’t showing improvement. If smoking is the cause, he or she can suggest products to address the circulation issues smoke creates in addition to treating wrinkles and pigmentation. And, if you’re undergoing a laser treatment, your smoking habits are crucial. Reduced circulation can slow healing time and limit the results you’ll see, Dr. Schultz explains.

Lie: I don’t have any moles.
The first signs of cancer tend to show up as a-typical moles. A yearly skin check is the best way to make sure some remote areas of real estate on your body are clear. “People tend to get shy about moles, but that’s why I’m here,” Dr. Green says. “I’ve had patients with moles near their vaginas who didn’t want to have them checked, but an uncomfortable location shouldn’t stop you from telling your doctor.”

Rates of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, have increased 800 percent in the last 40 years for women 18 to 39. Catching suspicious moles early is key to survival.

“Even if you have something suspicious on a sensitive area, you need to have it checked,” Dr. Green says. “This is a clinical matter for us and an important part of being a dermatologist.”

Lie: I don't get cold sores.
The skin on your lips may not seem relevant to the skin on the rest of your face, but there are some key instances where your cold sore history is vital information. “All patients who are having a peel or a laser procedure are questioned about cold sores,” Dr. Schultz says.

If a cold sore develops immediately after a peel or laser treatment, the virus can cause a much worse infection if it spreads to the compromised skin. You could also cause scarring that’s worse than what you were treating in the first place, Dr. Schultz explains. And, this is all on you. “I have no way of knowing if a person is answering honestly about her cold sore history, so I’m counting on her to tell the truth.”

Lie: I haven’t had any injectables.
In most cases, your dermatologist will be able to tell what injectables you’ve used. But, offering total disclosure will ensure you see the best results. “I have patients who are not truthful with me about previous work,” Dr. Zeichner says. “When giving injections, I need to know the environment in which I’m injecting a product he says.”

Whether you’ve had Botox or fillers in the past, fess up immediately. “What you’ve done before, influences the placement of injections going forward,” Dr. Day says. “I need to know if your appearance is natural or due to injections.”

And, your injectable history can impact other treatments — some topicals may cause sensitivity or irritation if they interact with fillers or Botox, and laser procedures can actually cause some injectables to burn. “I need the information to avoid dangerous consequences,” Dr. Day explains. “I had a patient who came to me to have Botox and then she went to another doctor for more injections right after,” she says. “With both sets of injections she couldn’t swallow.”

Lie: I use sun protection regularly.
Your skin will usually narc you out, but giving your doctor or aesthetician the honest truth on why you don’t wear sunscreen every day will save you time and frustration down the road.

And, while it’s great that you hit the SPF during trips to the beach, it’s your daily sun protection that your skin expert needs to know about. “Most skin aging comes from the incidental sun exposure we get every day,” Rouleau explains. “If a client doesn’t want to wear it every day, I work with her to find a formula she’ll find appealing or easy to work into her lifestyle. I just need to know what the problem is to help find a solution.”

Giving an honest account of your sun protection habits also gives your doctor a full picture of your skin. “Knowing my patients’ sun habits helps immensely in predicting what future treatments they might need,” Dr. Sarkar says. “And, if I know where she’s using sunscreen — on her face, neck, hands, or chest — I can also target treatment to the areas that are receiving the most damage.”

Lie: I haven’t been in the sun.
Treatments frequently need to be calibrated based on your sun exposure — past and future. “Patients are often dishonest about the amount of sun exposure they get and I need to know it all,” says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, co-director of laser surgery at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington D.C. “Recent sun exposure is the most important before doing laser treatments because undisclosed sun can cause a bad reaction,” says Dr. Tanzi. This applies to tanning beds as well. Any UV exposure that can burn or pigment the skin is relevant to your skin.

“I need to know how sensitive your skin is to the sun,” Dr. Fusco says. That information guides a dermatologist in selecting strength of products and peels. And, if you have plans for a tropical vacation, your doctor or aesthetician can adapt a treatment to avoid complications or sun sensitivity.

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Pisces
Old school, vintage, and analog? Not this week, Pisces. As futurist Thomas Edison quipped, “Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.” Well, here’s a third ingredient to round off your recipe for success: innovation. Your most bizarro ideas often contain the seeds of genius, so let yourself experiment and see what happens if you flesh them out. You’ll make a few “mistakes” along the way, but these may turn out to be unexpected breakthroughs.

Embrace the cutting-edge: Update software versions, life-hack with apps (especially financial-planning software), and develop new systems for making your workflow smoother. And, while we know you might be attached to your iPhone 4, honestly, Pisces … your life could be so much easier with a newer model.

Midweek, your sensual powers will be off the charts. Take your time with all that you do, especially in the romantic realm. Draw out the courtship timeline a little; make them want it more. Being a little harder to get (without playing too many games) will up your irresistibility. With Thursday’s full moon in Virgo and your house of committed twosomes, a relationship could become official. Business collabs could also crystallize in the two weeks after this full moon. Follow that urge to merge!

Aries
Change of heart? Your feelings could go from tepid to scorching (or vice versa) this week. Let the romantic renegade in you steer the ship. The heart wants what it wants, Aries, even if your choices evoke eye rolls and whispers from the peanut gallery. A shared adventure can reboot a stalled relationship — but keep it short and spontaneous. The moment plans get complicated you’ll check out.

Have you been mulling over an independent venture or even a stage performance? This is your week to rock it with that signature Aries flair. (Think: Aries Lady Gaga’s unexpected Oscars tribute to Julie Andrews.) You love to leave them guessing, and the element of surprise is working in your favor now.

But, all play and no work makes Aries a scattered ram. Thursday’s full moon in Virgo brings some order to your court. Parse through the chaos and clutter and get smarter systems in place. Scale back projects that are getting unwieldy — after all, a simpler plan can still be stunning. This full moon could bring news about work, too. The hustlers among you could be in for a big payoff. Cha-ching!

Taurus
Hello, innovator! Jupiter and Uranus team up this week, encouraging your mad-scientist streak to come out and play. Before you start worrying about what’s sensible and practical, let yourself dream as if the sky was the limit. Steer clear of the unimaginative downers, and rally with people who have successfully broken out of the box. Don’t know any? Read bios and watch TED talks for inspiration. Keep your big ideas on the DL early this week, though. A nosy neighbor could steal your trade secrets — or give it his best shot, since you’re #OftenImitatedNeverDuplicated.

Your live-out-loud moment arrives with Thursday’s full moon in your fifth house of fame, glamour, and romance. Work from the past six months could attract some prestigious — and public — eyes. Self-promote. Shamelessly. The two weeks following this full moon could shuttle you into the media spotlight or onto the stage.

A tenuous romantic situation could finally fall into the proper category, or you could meet someone who sweeps you off your feet. Got babies on the brain? This fertile full moon could bring a happy surprise from the old stork. Not ready to rock that cradle? Protect with extra precautions.

Gemini
Getting stuck in a “same-old-same-old” routine is like rowing down the River Styx for you, Gemini. You live for change and variety! You’re in luck this week, because a flurry of fresh faces are coming into your world — people you actually LIKE spending time with, thanks to their free-thinking and YOLO approach to life. But, no, you’re not going to meet them curled up on your couch with Orville Redenbacher and the Dowager Countess. Get out and mingle. Push yourself to explore out a new scene. Consider going alone to give yourself the extra nudge to meet new people.

Your love forecast brightens in direct proportion to your social schedule — especially Wednesday, when love planet Venus makes an exact connection to community-spirited Uranus. Digital dating delivers, too: Click and ye shall find. Coupled? Get out more as a pair, or host a game or movie night for your mutual friends.

Thursday’s full moon in Virgo lights up your domestic sector. Let those visions of retro wallpaper, sheepskin throws, and vintage chandeliers dance through your head. The décor bug could bite — or you may pull up the stakes and find a new place to hang your hat. A family feud could peak, but aim for resolution instead of heaping fuel onto the fire.

Cancer
Who’s on Team Cancer? Working collaboratively can take you to the home stretch at lightning speed this week. But, don’t just autopilot to the usual players. Make your draft picks (at least a few of them) outside your current circle of influence. Even if you don’t wind up being besties or future bridesmaids and godmothers to each other’s kids, do you have a professional spark? Joining forces with people of a different mindset can strengthen your mission — and give you the freedom to do the jobs that YOU enjoy.

Midweek, the suit-and-tie type could rock your world. Who knew? Look beyond that starched white collar, because a buttoned-up hottie could be wilder than his or her uniform reveals.

Thursday’s full moon in your communication house gives you the gift of gab. Got an idea to pitch, a podcast to record, a presentation to make? You’ll be the silverest of the silver-tongued devils for the two weeks to follow. Plug in the Blue Yeti, line up those PowerPoint graphics, and make your case!

Finally, an issue with a sibling or neighbor could resolve amicably under this lunar light.

Leo
Don’t overthink it, Leo — just leap. Daring duo Jupiter and Uranus give you the green light to take a gamble and pursue your dreams. You’re ready for a bigger league — and luck be a Leo this week. Launch that start-up business, shop your book proposal to publishers (or skip the middleman and self-publish), apply for the job in the London office. Your desire to be more free and independent could lead you to greener pastures.

You’ll be attracted to all things “otherworldly” this week and could feel the sparks with a cutie from a different culture or background from your own. Already hitched? A moment of truth could hit you near Wednesday. You might decide to rewrite the rules of your relationship — or just go on that long-overdue couple’s vacation. Somewhere, there are a pair of beach loungers with your names on them, Leo.

Even if you’re relaxing with your aviators and an umbrella drink, make sure you have a signal. Thursday’s full moon in Virgo lights up the second house of work and money. Word could come in of a job offer or a project getting green-lit, but you may have to hustle to get plans in motion in the following two weeks. Annoying? Yes, but you’ll be grateful for the economic stimulus package this provides.

Virgo
Rainbows and unicorns? Practical Virgo, you’re not usually one to fall for the fanciful, but just go with it this week. Who says life is supposed to be a struggle and that anything worth having must be earned the hard way? What’s actually most difficult is to surrender, stop planning, and become present to what IS going right — as opposed to what isn’t working out the way you want it to. Make a “What I’m Thankful For” list, or download an app like the Gratitude Journal (happytapper.com). As basic as it may sound, focusing your attention on the sunnier side of life — even the smallest of joys — will create a seismic shift. Spotify a playlist of uplifting songs, light a gorgeous votive, and treat yourself to an accessory that has a spiritual or personal meaning for you.

If you’ve been having trouble letting go of the past, fear not. Thursday’s full moon in Virgo hits the refresh button on your life and puts an end to the dwelling. New opportunities pour in over the two weeks that follow — but don’t forget that fortune favors the bold. Meet the universe halfway by pursuing leads and investing in your own development. Consider this a bonus birthday and one of the best periods of the year to manifest results from all the hard work you’ve done over the past six months. In other words, Virgo, you can afford to push it a little farther than you usually do.

Libra
FOMO alert! With this week’s super-social star map, there’s no way to avoid missing out. But, you can certainly reduce the odds. The dynamic duo of Jupiter and Uranus helps you expand the radius of your inner circle. Your mind and heart are wide open, even (or especially) to the those who live on the cutting edge. Tag along with friends to their various workshops and meet-ups. Seek new groups who mirror your current interests.

You’ll be keen on collaborating, but don’t be a volun-tease, Libra. In your enthusiastic discovery of these thrilling new scenes, you could offer up too much of your time and have to bow out at the last minute. Dabble, but wait a little while before buying the yearlong membership or signing up for a committee.

A relationship could hit an unexpected snag midweek when erratic Uranus syncs up with love planet Venus. If you’re ready to be liberated from this love affair, this planetary pairing lights the way to the emergency exit. Still crazy in love? Break up the predictability and do something offbeat and a little wild together: Jump out of an airplane or jump into a couple’s workshop. Thursday’s full moon in your 12th house of completions helps you declare a tired situation #doneanddusted. Let it go, let it go — or stop complaining and work on accepting it for what it is.

Scorpio
Unlike the bottle of Frederic Fekkai Glossing Shampoo in your shower caddy, you are not a “lather, rinse, repeat” kinda girl. Shake up your daily routines this week to keep life fresh and interesting. Essential to this process? Be willing to let life get a little messy as you set up fresh systems and transition into a new order. No, that won’t be easy for the control freaks among you. But, as (once again) Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I have found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Follow the rule of KISS: Simplifying a professional project can bring a sweeter, swifter success.

On Wednesday, warmhearted Venus snuggles up to humanitarian Uranus, sparking your helpful nature. Put in a community-service shift, or pinch-hit for a friend in need. When it comes to romance, the Venus-Uranus merger calls for “acts of service,” one of author Gary Chapman’s five Love Languages. Win loyalty points with your sweetie by playing best supporting cast mate this week. Encourage healthy habits for both of you: eating nourishing meals, buddy workouts at the gym, getting to sleep on time during the workweek. No, this isn’t the most glamorous role, but it’s the one that will make you irreplaceable.

Thursday’s full moon in your social networking zone sends your popularity skyward. You may be clinking Champagne flutes to celebrate a shared victory. But, consider your next move carefully. If you’ve outgrown this group, it may be time to pull a Beyoncé and bid a nostalgic farewell to your Destiny’s Child.

Sagittarius
Crazy in love…or just plain crazed? A frenetic chapter in your romantic history could be written this week — one so bizarre that you couldn’t predict it if you tried. Be open to the unexpected, but keep a hold on reality. It’s easy to get swept away by a charismatic character and lose sight of the big picture and your long-game needs. A rush of in-the-moment feelings can certainly fog up the lens. If you’re going to go with it, try to keep expectations to a minimum — despite any promises made. This might be a onetime high, an exciting entry for your future tell-all memoir. Of course, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

If you’ve been pulling petals off a daisy wondering if you love them or love them not, the problem may be your own unwillingness to leap. Ratchet up the intensity of a stuck situation and see what happens. You could wind up falling in love all over again after infusing more adventure into you relationship. And, while you may be a wild child, it might be in your best interest to have a partner who can be the solid earth beneath your centaur’s horseshoe-clad feet. Don’t underestimate the quiet ones.

Thursday’s full moon in Virgo brings major momentum for your career. Your hard work over the past six months could really pay off, bringing you prestige, public recognition, or a powerful professional ally who wants you in their corner.

Capricorn
Surrender and feel the love! The wisdom of your heart is shouting from the cosmic loudspeaker this week. A close and intimate connection could heat up quickly, giving your practical personality a run for its money. What makes sense on paper (read: your carefully crafted 10-year plan) isn’t necessarily a guarantee of happiness. If the universe is handing you a plate of salted-caramel truffles, don’t refuse because you ordered chocolate-covered strawberries — not until you’ve at least TRIED a bite of the alternative. Pleasant surprises are in store.

This week could bring some big changes with your friends and family. If you’ve been making your happiness secondary to theirs, flip the script. When Capricorn is blissed out, everyone benefits. After all, you’re the zodiac’s provider. Since you can’t pump a dry well, take a time-out, get a massage, book a therapy appointment or spa day, or just spend some quality time chilling by yourself.

Thursday’s full moon in your ninth house of truth, travel, and expansion could bring some white light insights. Loose lips may sink ships, but you’re willing to let it all go down like the Titanic if it means speaking from the heart. Keep it real, Capricorn, and let the chips fall where they may.

A long-distance opportunity could arrive within two weeks of this full moon. Cast a wider net. Paris in the springtime could bring the bonus of a fateful business connection or love affair. Oui, Capricorn. Oui!

Aquarius
Think you have a type, Aquarius? Guess again. An unconventional love connection could rouse your slumbering romantic this week. You could fall head over St. Laurent glitter boots for the geeky mad scientist or brainy professor type. Nothing turns you on like a beautiful mind at the moment. If you’re coupled, you might decide on a more, uh, bohemian arrangement with your amour du jour — one that gives you a little more space and autonomy. But, just because you’re feeling like the free bird doesn’t mean you can eradicate the double standard. Before you create too casual a vibe, consider how you’ll feel when the tables are turned.

On Thursday, the full moon in Virgo and your intimate eighth house will flip the script and leave you craving closer connections. Chemistry that’s been bubbling for a while could erupt into a sexy party between the sheets. If you’ve been on the fence about your love interest, the two weeks that follow this full moon will be clarifying. No room for gray (besides the Fifty Shades variety). Decide: Are you in or are you out?

Your own inventive powers are in fine form this week, too. Don’t brush off those creative impulses — an idea you have for an app, blog, or small business could be, quite literally, on the money.

Josh and Lucero, photographed in Bed-Stuy.

Matt and Pam, photographed in Williamsburg.

Corey and Tess, photographed in Colorado.

Brian and R2-D2, photographed on the Upper East Side.

Eric, Pup, and Bean, photographed in Colorado.

Bird and Gertrude, photographed in Colorado.

Grant and Tux, photographed in Greenpoint.

Matt and Trixie, photographed in Colorado.

Michael and Sadie, photographed in Colorado.

Ross and Jabsco, photographed in Colorado.

Brent and Sammy, photographed in Colorado.

Kent, Jessie, and Micky, photographed in Colorado.

Chat and Newton, photographed in Colorado.