FitSugar

All Moisturizers Help With Dry Skin

FitSugar — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 02:00:00 -0800

Here's some good news this winter: despite the long lists of obscure ingredients, all moisturizers help with dry skin because they supply a little bit of water to the skin and contain a greasy substance that holds it in. Almost every moisturizer on the market, pricey or not, will help with dry skin, and in most cases, the choice comes down to whether you like the feel and smell. Good to know when you're standing there looking at the shelf full of lotions at the drugstore, right?

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Health Tip: How to Moisturize

FitSugar — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 02:00:00 -0800

Dry skin and Winter seem to go hand in hand, and speaking of hands mine surely are dry. I just learned that to properly moisturize skin you need to apply lotion when the skin is damp. The lotion helps to trap the moisture of your damp skin keeping it hydrated. You should gently pat yourself dry post bath or shower and then apply your lotion.

However, when you are dealing with really dry skin and the "winter itch," you need a really thick lotion. To test it, squeeze a dollop of the moisturizer in question onto the palm of your hand. Flip your hand over and if any lotion drips off or runs, it is not thick enough to treat your itchy, dry skin effectively.

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Irritated About Bumps on Your Arms?

FitSugar — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 04:00:00 -0700

As long as I've known my best friend, she's been complaining about these tiny red bumps on the backs of her arms. She thought they were some kind of acne, like what you get on your back when you workout, so she went to her dermatologist to find out.

It turns out that it was a common condition called keratosis pilaris - a complicated name meaning bumpy skin. Actually 50% of people have it, so if you don't have it yourself, you probably know someone who does. It can be on the backs of your arms, your tush, and your thighs. The dead skin cells that are supposed to just flake off, get plugged up in the hair follicles. They look like tiny red or white pimples that have a dry, sandpaper feel. They don't hurt or itch, but they can make you feel self-conscious about baring your skin.

What can you do about these bumps? Use a good moisturizer twice a day - one containing salicylic acid, urea, or alphahydroxy might be your best bet. You can also take hot showers, let the skin soak a little, and then gently exfoliate using loofah gloves. A dermatologist can also prescribe a topical retinoid cream (made from vitamin A), which may help promote cell turnover and prevent the hair follicles from getting plugged in the first place. Whatever you do, I'm sorry to say that it takes constant maintenance - if you stop, the bumps will come back. Since they're harmless, I wouldn't worry about them too much.

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You Asked: Burning Lungs From Running in the Cold

FitSugar — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:50:49 -0800

Hi Fit,
I recently started running outdoors and am really enjoying it. It's started to cool off, and breathing in the cold air really burns my throat and lungs when I jog. Is there anything that can be done to prevent this?
- Winter Runner

Ahhh, the cold weather is moving in, and I give you credit for continuing your outdoor runs even though the temps have dropped. Running in the crisp air can be so exhilarating to your body and your mind, but your lungs are another story. I have some ideas about how to make your respiratory system happier, though, so continue reading

Topical barrier preparations (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:58:21 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Treats and prevents diaper rash, severely dry or chapped skin, minor burns, and other skin irritations.

Brand Name(s)

Dr. Smith's RASH-n-ALL, Lantiseptic Skin Protectant, Step 3 Moisture Barrier, Dermadrox, Soothe & Cool Moisture Barrier, Lobana Peri-Garde, Sarna Ultra Anti-Itch, Lantiseptic Therapeutic, Handshield, Soothe & Cool Inzo, Kerodex 71, Kerodex 51, Carrington Moisture Barrier, D-R-C Peri-Rectal Creme, Prean

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to petrolatum, lanolin, dimethicone, or zinc oxide.

How to Use This Medicine

Ointment, Cream, Lotion, Pad, Swab, Spray, Paste

Change wet and soiled diapers right away. Clean the diaper area and allow to dry.
Clean minor wounds before applying this medicine.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. Do not rub in the medicine that came in a pad, swab, or spray. Allow the pad, swab, or spray medicine to dry before covering the treated skin area.
Apply this medicine as often as needed (for babies, with each diaper change), unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store this medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

For adult women, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
If someone accidentally swallows some of this medicine, call your local poison control center.
If rash gets worse or does not get better within 7 days, call your doctor.
Do not use this medicine on deep cuts or wounds or on skin that is infected.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Increased redness or blistering on the skin

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_1005

6 Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying Hiking Boots

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:50:34 -0800

If you choose your hiking boots carefully, you can wear the same pair for years. But tracking down the perfect pair is easier said than done. I recently purchased a new pair of hikers, and they seem promising; I'll know after I break them in!

If you're gearing up for some cold-weather hikes, don't forget to bring these questions along when you head into the store.

Will you be hiking on wet ground? If so, it's worth investing in a pair of waterproof boots; they are more expensive but essential for preventing moisture-based blisters.
Do you need a heavy or light shoe? The heavier the boot, the tougher your hiking will be. For day hikes, a lighter boot is best, but if you're scaling inclines and/or carrying a heavy pack, you need the extra support of a heavier shoe.
Do you need ankle support? If you are going to be hiking on steep inclines or uneven terrain, get a boot that covers the ankles, rather than a low shoe such as an approach shoe. This will help prevent injury.

Three more tips, so keep reading.

Oxymetazoline (Into the nose)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:49:02 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Oxymetazoline (ox-i-met-AZ-oh-leen)

Treats stuffy nose due to colds, hay fever, allergies, sinus and upper respiratory tract infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called nasal decongestants.

Brand Name(s)

Afrin, NRS-Nasal Relief, 4-Way Long Lasting, Health Care America Nasal, Good Neighbor Nasal Spray Pump, Rite Aid Nasal Spray, Mucinex Full Force, Afrin w/Menthol, Afrin Sinus, Nostrilla, Duration, Afrin Extra Moisturizing, Mucinex Moisture Smart, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Duramist Plus

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to oxymetazoline or to other nasal decongestants. You should not use oxymetazoline if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Check with your doctor before using oxymetazoline if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, overactive thyroid, or an enlarged prostate.

How to Use This Medicine

Spray, Drop

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. You should not use more often or in larger amounts than your doctor has ordered. Always follow the instructions on the medicine label if your doctor did not order the medicine.
Blow your nose gently before using the nose drops. Tilt your head back while standing or sitting and squeeze drops into each nostril. Keep your head tilted back for a few minutes afterward.
Rinse the dropper with hot water and dry with a clean tissue.
Blow your nose gently before using the nasal spray. With you head upright, spray the medicine once into each nostril, sniffing while squeezing the bottle quickly and firmly. Wait 3 to 5 minutes to allow the drug to work, then blow your nose gently again. Repeat until you have used the number of sprays your doctor ordered.
Rinse the tip of the nasal spray with hot water and dry with a clean tissue.

If a dose is missed:

Use the medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
If it is nearly time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and light. Do not freeze.
Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
You should not use this medicine for more than 3 days unless you have talked to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Trouble breathing
Seizures (convulsions)
Tingling in the hands or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Headache
Restlessness
Sneezing
Burning or stinging inside of the nose

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0279

Just a Spoonful of Honey

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:00:28 -0800

It's that time of year when dry coughs begin to interfere with sleep. You lie down and start coughing, and the coughing keeps you up. Never fear, there's a natural fix for the problem: honey.

The amber liquid has been found to ease nighttime coughs. It is believed that honey helps ease coughs for a variety of reasons. Not only does it soothe sore throats because it is a humectant, helping trap moisture where it is needed, but honey is also high in antioxidants and has antimicrobial effects. Try a teaspoon before bed and see if it helps.

Source: Flickr User biskuit

Home Spa Treatment: Heal Dry Hands With Heated Socks

FitSugar — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:16 -0800

Colder weather means dry skin, and for me, my hands and cuticles are the worst since I'm constantly washing my hands. Here's a soothing and inexpensive remedy you can treat yourself to at home. If you suffer from dry skin on your feet, you can use this treatment on your tootsies too.

To learn how to heal your dry skin keep reading

Dimethicone (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:11:26 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Dimethicone (dye-METH-i-kone)

Treats and prevents severely dry or chapped skin and other skin irritations.

Brand Name(s)

Moisturel, Carrington Moisture Guard, Secura Dimethicone Protectant, Secura Dimethicone Kit, NormlShield, Cavilon Durable Barrier, Resurfix, Cavilon Emollient, Cavilon Foot Emollient, Sween 24, Medicine Shoppe Natural Cold Sore Cream, RadiaPlexRx, Proshield Plus Skin Protectant, Theraseal, Rite Aid Advanced Healing

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dimethicone.

How to Use This Medicine

Kit, Cream, Ointment, Lotion, Pad, Stick, Spray, Gel/Jelly

If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Clean minor wounds before applying this medicine.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. Do not rub in the medicine that came in a pad, swab, or spray. Allow the pad, swab, or spray medicine to dry before covering the skin.
Shake the aerosol can just before using. Hold the can 3 to 6 inches from the skin and spray for about 2 seconds.
Do not inhale the spray or use it near heat, open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the aerosol can.
Apply this medicine as often as needed unless your doctor tells you not to.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
If someone accidentally swallows some of this medicine, call your local poison control center.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
Do not use this medicine on serious burns, animal bites, deep wounds, or on skin that is infected unless your doctor tells you to.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Increased redness or blistering on the skin.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5437