DEAR ABBY: I am a 25-year-old woman who happens to have a very fair complexion. I do not tan very easily. My dermatologist just removed three precancerous growths from my arms and advised me to wear sunscreen when I plan to go out in the sun.
I get very irritated with people who tell me I would look a lot better if I got a little tan. Can you suggest a snappy comeback for these clods? -- SUN-SHY IN GEORGIA
DEAR SUN-SHY: Snappy comeback? You need no snappier comeback than the truth. Try this: "My dermatologist just removed three precancerous growths from my arms."
Then notice how quiet it gets ... followed by a, "Gee, I'm sorry. I didn't know" ... or words to that effect.