Women Can Be Sexy Past the Age of 18

In “When All Else Falters, Airbrush” (March 27), Irene Lacher developed a poignant, factual article of aging beauty and its growing public appeal. Joey Heatherton, former Vegas showgirl, posed for the pages of Playboy, sexy and confident.

The allure of older women has gained popularity, capturing a ‘90s commercial appeal. I support this glorification, allowing women to appreciate their beauty at any age. What I do not support is the blatant contradictory message this pictorial sends to the masses.

The article possessed a clever satirical tone examining the “Playboy universe.” Through the magic of airbrushing anyone can be beautiful and erotic. The underlying message? Alter the original and make it look good because the original’s not good enough. Today’s woman can be attractive and sexy only if she looks about 18.

Although I fully respect and admire Heatherton’s accomplishments, it’s absurd that a woman who is 52, appears 22. In this case, the execs at Playboy may have pushed the envelope a little too far.

JULIE ANN BILOTTTA

Hollywood