Glue. Embalming Fluid. Nail Polish.

One of these things is not like the others. Or is it?

Actually, all three substances typically contain formaldehyde, a colorless gas compound that is also a carcinogen, meaning that it causes cancerous cell growth. And while it's no secret that we place a premium on looking pretty, good health is a building block of great looks. So, to skip the carcinogens but keep the manicures, we've rounded up a bevy of lacquers that are long lasting, lovely and formaldehyde-free.

Not everything in life has to be perfect.

Like your best friend's sense of style -- exceptional, but not without an occasional blemish.

And then there are those things that are just not negotiable: your ex-boyfriend's penchant for ogling other women and gray hairs before 30. Oh, and crow's feet, cellulite and spider veins.

Enter South Loop's Center for Modern Vein & Skin Care, a 4,000 sq. foot medical spa facility that boasts an expertly trained, all-female staff who can help eradicate every imperfection you can come up with. Think Isolaz for acne, Botox® for wrinkles, Laser Hair Removal for that not-so-happy trail and much more.

Yup, Center for Modern Vein & Skin Care has the cure for all that ails you. Except for philandering ex- boyfriends; eliminating that one is up to you.

As you soak up the last weeks of summer, hopefully you're eating your way to "5 A Day" - that's the five daily servings of fresh fruits and veggies recommended by the FDA. But if you haven't been diligent, we've got six nutritious treats for your lips of the oh-so-shiny sort.

DuWop packs a powerful punch of antioxidants in its LipLingo collection with a blend of pomegranate and berry extracts. These fruit-fighters protect us from those harmful free radicals floating around the atmosphere. Two summer-friendly palettes, nude and pink, are housed in sleek, slim, sea-foam metallic green compacts with a slick mirror and dual-ended brush.

Do you have the power to inspire? If so, now's your chance to become the 9th MIDORI Muse and win the Spirit Awakening trip for two to Las Vegas!

Mystery, Melodrama, Madness, Mischief, Merriment, Melody, Miracles and Momentum round out MIDORI's 8 Muses, and now Midori is seeking its 9th and final muse. Now through August 30th, enter online at MidoriAwakening by writing 50-150 words describing the unique personality of the 9th muse and its power of inspiration.

The grand prize is roundtrip airfare for two to Las Vegas, 4 nights at the Palms Casino Resort, Spa Treatments, VIP Club Passes, Tickets to a Show and $1,000 cash. Additional prizes will also be awarded to runner-up entries.