Lifestyle

The hottest accessory isn’t a Birkin bag or designer heels: It’s nail art. • Creative works of nail art are making their way onto every red carpet, from the Oscars to the Grammys. Celebrities, who influence fashion and makeup, now are setting the hottest nail trends with awards-season nails created by artists who pay attention to each swipe of color and every application of crystals. • Nails may seem like an insignificant detail, Saccia Livingston, the artist behind Doja Cat’s extravagant claws, says, but they can complete a look. • “It brings everything together. Nails add that extra oomph, whether it’s through length, shape, colors or design. It’s not ‘just nails’ because you definitely notice when they’re missing,” Livingston tells USA TODAY. • Though nail trends change from season to season as does fashion, lately, Livingston has loved seeing faded colors, French tips and funky patterns. Julie Kandalec of Julie K Nails calls social media “a great place to showcase what you specifically do,” whether that’s 6-inch acrylics or muted neutrals.

Dear Dr. Roach: I have a bad case of erectile dysfunction. I am 80 years old and otherwise in good health. I have received an ad in the mail that says it is not a lack of testosterone, but rather too much estrogen in the body. They make a lot of promises, but it scares me to reduce estrogen without further knowledge. What do you know? How can I overcome this problem and enjoy sex again?

Dear Abby: A friend of mine lost her husband a couple of years ago. I didn’t think she was looking for love or companionship, but all of a sudden she has met a younger man, and I’m concerned. I have observed several red flags, but I’m not sure if I should say something.

Dear Abby: My adult granddaughter, “Kaia,” is in a relationship with “Jenny.” Jenny’s stepmom doesn’t believe in gay marriage or homosexuality. I’m having a hard time dealing with the fact that Jenny’s family doesn’t accept Kaia or allow her in their home. Kaia is excluded from all holidays and family functions.

Dear Dr. Roach: I am 68 and have prostate cancer. I had PSAs, an MRI and a biopsy. My Gleason score was a high 7. No genetic testing as I can recall. My urologist said I had “upper moderate” cancer and that I could remove my prostate or do radiation therapy. I underwent three months of radiation treatment from September to November 2020. I’ve done three PSA tests since the radiation. All have been very low and, per my doc, good.

Dear Neil: We have many live oaks, and they have just dropped tons of leaves. How long does it take for chopped-up live oak leaves to decay in the lawn? They’re very leathery, so it will take a while.

Dear Abby: I have been married for 17 years with three great kids. My wife and I have struggled on and off during those 17 years. I often feel like maybe I don’t love her. We are complete opposites. I’m adventurous, daring and extroverted. She denies me sex a lot. This last time was for four months.