Bananas are almost a wonder food. They provide not only good nutrition but have a variety of uses outside of nutrition. Bananas can help heal dry skin. For years the inside of the banana peel has been rubbed on skin effected by psoriasis to bring relief. There are other uses such as:

1. Poison ivy
2. Warts
3. Topical wrinkle treatment (tighten skin)
4. Constipation
5. Indigestion
6. Increase energy
7. Reduce acne flare-ups
8. Mosquito bites

It is an ingredient found in facial masks treatments to help brighten and tone the skin. Bananas especially the peel contains antioxidants and minerals that help restore the skin and promote softness.

Even mashing a ripe banana well and apply to the face can be therapeutic for relieving dry skin. Let it dry and then rinse with cold water. Never rub but pat dry.

An alternative mixture would be to mix a mashed banana into one egg yolk and add in one teaspoon of sour cream. Apply to the face and let sit for about 20 minutes then rinse face with warm water to remove mixture.

Ever heard of creating a homemade mask from bananas? Try this!

1. 1 ripe mashed banana
2. 1 egg white
3. 1 teaspoon of honey
4. Add 1-2 tablespoon of oatmeal
5. Stir in all ingredients mixture will have the consistency of a thick cream or until smooth.
6. Apply to skin with brush or applicator of choice for about 20 minutes
7. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry
8. Left over can be stored in the fridge for about 2 days
9. Apply once a day for 3 days more if you like

The really nice thing about natural treatments is that most are harmless and inexpensive. In most cases the only thing you need watch out for is an allergic reaction to some fruits that may cause a skin rash if you have sensitivity.

There are many variations on the banana theme that are not mention here. Only experimentation will help you render the results that work best for you.

Going bald is not just a male thing. But as it pertains to women this topic is rarely discussed in today’s culture. In fact we seldom see a bald headed woman unless she is trying to make a statement be it political, fashion or otherwise. These women shave their heads and go bald by choice such as Sinead O’Connor. Unfortunately some have become bald due to chemotherapy or radiation used to treat cancer. Being bald has never been chic for most women but an embarrassment. It seems when a women looses her hair she is instantly the butt of tasteless jokes. So women who find themselves loosing hair will do almost anything to cover it up. This can mean wearing a wig, hairpiece even a hair implant.

Thinning hair is a common occurrence during menopause. Hair loss (noticeable hair loss called alopecia) is caused by a reduction in levels of estrogen. There are several options to dealing with menopausal hair loss.

1. One is HRT (hormone replacement therapy) which usually involves taking estrogen or progesterone. There have been concerns raised about a possible increase in breast and ovarian cancer with this kind of therapy. If you are concerned there are alternatives like plant based hormones such as soya.
2. Herbal remedies
3. Propecia (Finasteride) helps prevent hair loss and encourage growth
4. Minoxidil (Rogaine) promote growth and thickness by stimulating hair follicles. Minoxidil is the only drug approved by the FDA to treat female pattern baldness.

The use of Propecia is discouraged in pregnant women as it can cause birth defects.

As we age women like men often find their hair thinning, patchy hair loss and at times leaving bald spots. Some women eventually go completely bald. Female pattern baldness tends to occur with thinning of hair over the entire head but maintaining the crown.

Menopause is a major factor but just one of the many reasons for hair loss in women. Others include:

1. Under or overactive thyroid dry brittle hair can be a symptom of hypothyroidism
2. Medications
3. Stress
4. Genetics
5. Vitamin and iron deficiencies
6. Iron
7. Chemicals
8. Skin diseases
9. Lack of protein in the diet

In many ways the hair and skin are alike. The hair like the skin contains natural oils that can become depleted through abuse or from chemicals. Hair can become dry, brittle and damaged.  There are days when the inability to manage and style it can be called nothing short of a hot mess.

If you love to swim and spend a lot of time on the beach or in the pool then protecting your hair from loss of natural oils and maintaining its natural shine can be of utmost importance. Chlorine added in swimming pools is a major contributor to drying hair and causing split ends giving it a frizzed appearance (swimmers hair). If you are a blond or have light colored hair it can turn green. Hair turns green because of the mixture of chemicals like chlorine and copper sulphate. Green hair is great on St. Patrick’s Day or if you’re a punk rocker. But short of this most of us are looking for a way to prevent swimmers hair and dryness. A few tips towards that goal are:

1. Apply a leave-in conditioner and wear a swimming cap before swimming
2. Just wear a swim cap
3. Shampoo and condition hair after swimming to help remove chlorine
4. If hair is green after swimming use a purifying or clarifying shampoo along with conditioner
5. You can also use the juice of a lemon to help remove green coloring.
6. Rinse hair with water before  and after swimming
7. Apply conditioner again after swimming
8. Deep condition about once a week

The best shampoo for swimmers are those that contain a chelating agent which helps to soften water and neutralize metal ions in hard water. They are many on the market like L’ANZA Swim & Sun Daily Chelating Shampoo which can be rather pricy but contains an HPF 30 (hair protection factor).

Another less pricy alternative for swimmers is Joico K-Pak Chelating Shampoo.

Even though Chlorine is used to kill bacteria in many homes and public pools; its effects can be counteracted with a little effort and steps towards prevention.

The development of brown spots (age spots, liver spots, sun spots, freckles) on the skin are produce by an over production of melanin in the effected areas of the skin. As the spots clump together the they grow in size. Over exposure to the sun’s ultra violet rays can be a culprit. But the sun is not the only perpetrator. Age spots commonly appear after the age of 40. There is a tendency for the body to increase its melanin production as we age. Hyperpigmentation (brown spots) can be caused by birth control pills, hormones and medications.

Solar lentigines (past severe sun burn) have been used as markers to single out those at greater risk of developing a skin melanoma. Skin spots can vary in coloration from red to brown or even be black.

Typical age spots are not a health risk. But because of their unattractive appearance are troublesome. There are ways to treat liver/sun spots that help to remove or fade them.

Treatment can be from over the counter, home made remedies or professional office visits.

Over The Counter And Prescription Cream Remedies

1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
2. Retinol (Vitamin A helps reduce melanin production)
3. Hydroquinone (for fair to light skin)
4. Kojic acid (for darker complexions)
5. Alpha-hydroxy acids
6. Alpha Arbutin (helps break down melanin)
7. Hydrocortisone
8. Tretinoin

Home Remedies

1. These can consist of lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide that helps fade brown spot marks on skin.
2. Apply castor oil to spots and take vitamin E
3. Blanch and grind 2 almonds mix in with an egg white and a half teaspoon of lime juice. Apply to face let dry then wash with warm water followed by cold water.

Medical Treatments For Brown Spots

1. Chemical face peels with glycolic acid help to fade spots. Skin may ooze.
2. Microdermabrasion- tiny crystals scrub and remove the top layer of skin causing spots to fade.
3. Freezing with liquid nitrogen may sting or burn and require up to 3 treatments. Treatment helps remove age spots. Skin may become swollen along with blistering or scabbing.

Fraxel Laser Treatment

There are three types of Fraxel laser treatments.

Fraxel re:fine- is the mildest of the three lasers with the least amount of recovery time. It focus is on the epidermis (outermost layer) of the skin. This type of skin laser treatment is used for fine lines around the eyes, skin discolorations and melasma (sometimes referred to as the mask of pregnancy, Chloasma faciei). Melasma appears as irregular dark patches on the cheek, forehead, nose or lips. Fraxel re:fine helps rejuvenate skin. The ability to deliver a controlled skin treatment prevents untreated areas of the skin from being affected by the laser. The laser can be used on the face and other areas of the body.

Fraxel re:pair- goes a little bit deeper into the skin to the layer called the dermis (which is between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissues) treating deeper skin issues. Fraxel re:pair will treat deep skin wrinkles, problem skin pigmentation, sun spots, age spots, stretch marks and blotchy skin. The procedure lends itself to surface oblation (resurfacing) of the skin. The skin is tighter and smoother through quicker production of collagen and elastin.

Fraxel re:store- can be used to treat acne scars and scarring below the epidermal area. After treatment changes in skin are gradual. This laser can be used on the hands, face, neck and chest areas. Fraxel treatments help promote formation of new collagen in the skin.

Comparing Fraxel To CO2 Or Erbium Lasers

Traditional Erbium lasers and CO2 lasers take of the entire top layer of the skin and part of the dermis leaving the skin raw which can ooze, bleed or become crusty. Healing can take at least 2 weeks if not longer. Other side effects may include an abnormal lightening of the skin. Antibiotics are administered because of the risk of infection. You will also need a general anesthetic (put under or go to sleep).

Depending on the type of Fraxel laser treatment used recovery can be 2 to 3 days or sooner. Fraxel requires multiple treatments or sessions varying from 3-6.

To reduce any discomfort during the procedure a numbing cream is use and not sedative is required. A cooling device enables you to blow cool air on the treated area. Discomfort is at a minimum until near the end of treatment where some tingling may occur. Fraxel treatments can last up to an hour. Down time is minimal. There is some swelling which lasts 2-3 days. So, you may want to avoid returning to work during this time if needed. For about a week after the treatment skin will flake and maybe bronze.

There may be dryness of the skin due to exfoliation for about a week. Even though Fraxel is less severe than traditional laser therapy blisters can occur and get infected if picked.

Side Effects

Fraxel can cause dry skin, itching and break out/rashes. Other side effects are peeling and flaking.

Cost Of Fraxel Laser Treatments

Treatments can cost anywhere from $800-$1500 per session. The number of sessions will vary depending on the type of Fraxel needed and the extent of treatments needed.

What is oily skin? It is an over production of oil from the sebaceous glands. Oily skin is the flip side of dry skin. It is definitely one of the more troublesome skin types. Oily skin a mile away because of the greasy shine it leaves on the face especially around the nose and forehead. The only benefit for those that have oily skin is that the skin ages at a slower rate. But usually it can be the source of problem skin like blemishes, acne, pimples and blackheads. Oily skin can be caused by the onset of puberty, heredity, pregnancy (because of hormonal imbalance), hot weather (humidity) and diet.

One important thing to do when the skin is oily is to keep it clean. Depending on how oily your skin is this can be about three times a day. Do not over wash to prevent excessive oil production in the skin. Use

plenty of hot water to help dissolve oils in the skin. Avoid heavy or thick cleansing creams and harsh soaps. Apply an antibacterial cleanser but without alcohol. Then apply an oil free moisturizing lotion to maintain flexibility and softness in the skin. The best times of day to apply moisturizer is at night then a bit in the morning especially around the eyes, mouth and throat.

To reduce extra facial shine and oiliness during the day apply a little witch hazel it will help absorb excess oil. Clay or mud mask treatments absorb excess oils.

For problems with patchy makeup use a little cucumber juice on problem areas of the face nose, chin and forehead.

Exfoliants and astringents with acetone are another way to help absorb extra oil on skin.

Diet

Diet has a great deal to do with how the skin looks. Be sure and get enough B2 vitamins. If you don’t take a multivitamin this may be a good time to start.

Stay away from animal fats in food. Use canola and olive oil in salads. Avoid or limit consumption of soda pop, alcohol, chocolate, sugar, fried and spicy foods.

The sun dries can dry the skin and cause wrinkles especially when over exposed. A sunscreen can protect you from the harmful rays of the sun. If you are going to use a sunscreen without a moisturizer, then apply the sunscreen first and let it absorb into the skin for about 15-20 minutes. Afterwards apply a moisturizer. Many doctors recommend wearing a moisturizer with sun SPF (sunscreen protection factor) built in to protect against the sun’s UVA rays which are a danger year round. Too much sun can not only cause wrinkles but broken skin vessels.

Finding The Best Sunscreen

Choose a product that contains at least one of the following ingredients:

1. Mexoryl (ecamsule, mexoryl sx, mexoryl xl)
2. Avobenzone (parasol 1789)
3. Zinc Oxide
4. Titanium Dioxide

Mexoryl protects against the full/broad spectrum of UVA and UVB rays and is the latest FDA approved sun protection ingredients.

Avoid alcohol based sunscreens if you already have dry skin because they may exacerbate the problem and may burn. If you do use an alcohol base sunscreen be sure and hydrate (moisturize the skin).

Using Sunscreens

Be generous and apply a liberal amount about 1- 2 ounces of course this will vary with body weight

Using sunscreen is not an apply it once leave it and forget it activity be sure and re-apply every 2 hours to continue protection.

Remember to check the expiration date on all sunscreen products before purchasing.

A few spray-on sunscreens that have ranked high in consumer reports like “Consumer Reports Health Magazine” are:

1. Aveeno Continuous Protection SPF 50
2. Banana Boat Sport Performance SPF 30

The American Academy Of Dermatology recommends a SPF (sunscreen protection factor) of 30.

Do African Americans Need To Wear Sunscreen

The answer is yes. It is a myth believed by many in both the black and white community that having dark

skin gives special protection against sunburn and skin cancer. Nothing can be further from the truth. Although many African Americans may not be as sensitive as their fair skinned Caucasian brothers and sisters; Skin types and sensitivity vary widely within the black community leaving some more sensitive than others. But regardless of your ethnic background or complexion the suns rays (ultra violet light) can still damage skin. It is just more readily apparent in those with fairer complexions. If your complexion is dark wear a sunscreen with and SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.

Medications can also increase the risk of skin damage from ultra violet light. Considering the fact that many African Americans suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) medications that treat it can cause increased sun sensitivity. Other medications are oral contraceptives and anti diabetic drugs. The American Cancer Society warns of over exposure to the sun by those who use medications like tetracycline, naproxen. You do not have to burn to increase the risk of skin cancer.

Protecting Children’s Skin

Children also need sunscreen to protect their sensitive skin. Some of the best sunscreens for children are

1. Hypoallergenic (for sensitive skin)
2. Fragrance free
3. Waterproof
4. Contain titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide
5. Avoid those containing avobenzone which may irritate skin
6. Test on a small area of the child’s skin before apply all over the body
7. SPF 30 or above
8. Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby
9. Coppertone Kids

Difference Between Sunscreen And Sunblock

Sunscreens that tend to be watery do not protect against both UVA and UVB rays and are not visible on the surface of the skin. But this is not always the case.

Sunblock tends to be thicker and may appear white on the skin. They contain UVA and UVB blocking/protection ingredients like zinc oxide (contains calamine) or titanium dioxide. It is also possible to have a sunscreen and sun block in one product.

Note: UVA (cause aging) UVB (cause cancer)

Creams tend to be better than spray because more gets on the skin.

Clothing

Wear tight weave clothing to help protect against sun’s harmful rays or buy sun protection clothing with a UPF (ultra violet protection factor) of at least 50. Some makers of UPF clothing are:

1. Coolibar
2. SunaWARE
3. L.L. Bean

Wear sun protective clothing like wide brim hats that protect the back of the neck, face and ears.

One Last Note

No sunscreen/sunblock can block all the sun’s UV rays but only provide a hierarchy (some better than others) of protection to reduce the risk of skin damage.

If your babies scalp is dry one of the first things to consider is how often you wash your baby’s hair. This may be one of the reasons for dryness. If you are washing too frequently you may be stripping the scalp of natural oils and moisturizers faster than they can be replenished. Try washing less frequently, about every three days and see if it remedies baby’s dry scalp. For babies less than 6 months old be careful not to over hydrate your baby by giving them too much water. Some mothers will do this believing that scalp dryness is caused by lack of enough water in the diet. This can be a mistake causing a baby that is breast feeding not to feed normally because of a full tummy. Too much water can interfere with how nutrients are absorbed from breast milk or baby formula. In unusual cases water intoxication occur resulting in coma, seizures or death. If you are concerned about water in your baby’s diet, discuss it with your pediatrician.

If washing less frequently does not a aid with dry scalp try applying a little olive oil to your fingers and massage into babies scalp let sit for about 15 minutes then brush through hair to help loosen dry patches. Apply mild baby shampoo to hair let sit while bathing baby. Then wash out shampoo. You can also use

baby oil.

Cradle Cap

Common in many babies during the first 6 to 12 months, it will usually go away on its own. Although in some children it can last longer. Cradle cap will cause dry flaky scalp that resembles dandruff. It can appear as yellow or brown flaky patches on the scalp. Cradle cap is usually harmless.

The above oil and shampoo remedies are also applicable. Remember not to leave oil on the scalp to prevent clogging of pores and flakes sticking or clumping together.

If the scalp becomes inflamed or cradle caps spread beyond the scalp, it may be necessary to use a seborrhea shampoo or cortisone cream. See your pediatrician.

 Dryness under the eyes has many causes. The skin around the eyes tends to be very sensitive. Irritation can come from bacteria, allergic reactions to chemicals, makeup, shampoos, cleansers, food and hair dyes.

Another culprit is household dust mites that can trigger an allergic reaction in those that have a sensitivity. Dust mites are small microscopic organisms that live in carpet, pillows, dust, bed linen, curtains and mattresses. They thrive in moist and poorly ventilated homes. This species of mite do not transmit disease but some do.

Remedy

1. Wash bed linen frequently in hot water (129 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Vacuum and clean dust weekly from carpets, curtain and floors. Use a vacuum cleaner specifically design to remove mites and allergens from carpet.
3. If you have an allergy to mites be careful as they disperse through the air when changing linen. Use a  dust mask to cover the face and reduce exposure even when vacuuming.
4. Use mite resistant covering on top of bed linen.
5. Simple household cleaners may not kill mites
6. Keep your home dry
7. Use air purifiers with a HEPA filter to help control mites.    

Demodex Mites

The human demodex mites (demodex folliculorum, face mites, tiny mites) are most prevalent on the nose, face, chin, forehead and chin. But also dwell anywhere there are oil glands (sebaceus) and hair roots like eyebrows, eyelashes and scalp. They can cause itchy dry eyes, red scaling eyelids and even blurred vision. Symptoms may not always be apparent.

This form of mite live on pets and humans unlike household mites which do not live on the body. Ironically the mite normally lives on the human body. It is not until they start to reproduce uncontrollably (due to a weakened or suppressed immune system) that a problem arises. These critters have been linked to blepharitis (inflammation of the eyes) and rosacea.

Rosacea often mistaken for acne effecting caucasians with fair skins the most. It is characterized by red or pink patches small red bumps and pink or irritated eyes; normally effecting the central regions of the face like the nose, chin and forehead.

Rosacea is a chronic condition that can be controlled but not cured effecting those between the ages of 30-50 most. The condition typically tends to worsen with age. In advanced cases of rosacea the eyes can be effected (ocular rosacea) causing dryness, burning, grittiness and light sensitivity.

Treatments May Include:

1. Antibiotics (tetracycline, doxycycline, amoxicillin to reduce bumps and inflammation)
2. Antibacterial face washes
3. Laser treatments
4. Topical Creams metronidazole and azelaic acid to control bumps and redness)
5. Zinc base sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF 30)

Conditions That Trigger Rosacea Flare ups

1. Dairy products
2. Smoking
3. Alcohol
4. Fragrances
5. Salicylic Acid
6. Some blood pressure medications
7. Citrus fruits
8. Hot and spicy foods
9. Stress

Symptoms of rosacea may not always be present.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. There are multiple causes. It has been associated with bacterial eye infections, allergies, rosacea and eye dryness. It can cause dandruff like scales on the eyelashes.

If you have blepharitis you may have to limit or stop wearing makeup and contact lenses during outbreaks to facilitate cleaning and further infection of the eyelids.

Treatment Of Blepharitis

The best treatment is good facial and scalp hygiene.

During outbreaks apply a washcloth wet with warm water for about 10 minutes several times daily.

Make sure a clean cloth is use for each treatment.

Use a mixture of water and baby shampoo to clean eyelids of materials. 4 parts water and 1 part baby shampoo.

Use a cotton applicator stick dipped in mixture to remove crusty material from eyelids. Do not rub the eye.

Other conditions that may arise as a result of blepharitis are stys, chronic pink eye, chalazion (conjunctive granuloma)

Depending on the type and severity of blepharitis you have, it may require an office visit to your physician for antibiotics and other topical treatments.

Like rosacea some forms of blepharitis has been link to demodex folliculorum (tiny microscopic mites) whose waste materials clog follicles at the roots of eyelashes.

One of the things that we often forget is that nails need moisture too; without it nails can become cracked and brittle. Very often we for the sake of beauty we expose our nails to chemicals that can have a drying effect. This is evident when it comes to an overuse of nail polish remover. How many times have you been to the beauty supply store and found that nail color you just had to have and tested new shades of nail color. Sometimes you purchased new nail color to match a wardrobe or jewelry set. As you increase the frequency with which you used nail polish remover you may have been increasing your chances of getting problem dry and brittle nails that crack, chip away or split.

Nail polish removers can contain anyone of the following substances that dry nails and dehydrate the skin.

1. Acetone
2. Alcohol
3. Butyl acetate
4. Ethyl acetate
5. Methanol(highly toxic)

Some removers even though acetone free may be more dangerous because they substitute the chemical methanol which is more toxic than acetone even in smaller concentrations. Methanol inhaled has all the toxic side effects of acetone plus coma, blindness, vomiting including death.

If you are going to be using nail polish remover remember to moisturize frequently to reduce drying.

Two really beneficial moisturizing treatments are petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and olive oil.

Rub Vaseline on hands to get extra moisturizing wear cotton gloves overnight.

To treat dry nails and cuticles soak hands in a half of a cup of warm olive oil for 15-30 minutes. Repeat as needed.

Throughout the day use a good moisturizing hand and skincare lotion.

Eucerin
Lubriderm
Vaseline intensive care
Aveeno
Cetaphil (recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians especially if you need to wash your  hands frequently)   
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion

Aveeno Eczema Care and Eucerin also help bring relief to dryness from atopic eczema.

Other Causes Of Dry Nails

Even though moisturizing is important for treating dry nails. It may not be the root of the problem. Proper nutrition is also important. Deficiencies in any of the following vitamins can cause dry nails and skin:

1. Iron
2. Biotin
3. Calcium
4. Vitamins A & E

Also avoid placing the hands in harsh chemicals. If you need to work with harsh chemicals then buy and use surgical, latex, vinyl or nitrile plastic gloves to protect the hands.

Disposable gloves are best; because germs and bacteria are discarded after use, avoiding possibility of infection and exposure to hazardous material.

One of the first warning signs of diabetes may be dry skin. This is especially important in Diabetics because of high glucose levels that rob the skin of moisture particularly on the elbows, legs and feet. Once dehydration occurs cracking, peeling and infection can follow. Infections are high risk if occurring on the feet because diabetics often have nerve damage (loss of sensation) and cannot tell when blisters or wounds occur. That is why it is necessary for diabetics to pay close attention to and frequently inspect the condition of the feet and properly address any wounds that occur. Poor circulation will further add to the problem because sweat glands do not function at all or are to slow. Sweating that would normally help keep the skin moist do not occur often enough to prevent drying.

What is Diabetes Mellitus? It is the inability to produce or process insulin properly. There are three types of diabetes.

1. Type I – failure to produce insulin
2. Type II – inability to use insulin properly, deficiency may also be present (often connected to genetics and overweight). This type of diabetes more common in African Americans, Asians, Native Americans and Latinos.
3. Gestational Diabetes – A form of temporary diabetes appearing in the second trimester and disappearing after the birth of the baby. Those most at risk for this form of diabetes are moms over 35 years of age. Family history of type II diabetes and those with high blood pressure. Also at risk are those mothers who in previous pregnancies delivered children over 8.5 lbs.

Signs And Symptoms

1. Thirst that does not go away
2. Frequent urination
3. Weakness and fatigue
4. unusual ease of weight loss
5. Tingling or numbness in extremities (hands, legs or feet)
6. Cuts, bruises, infections that just won’t heal
7. Changes in vision (blurring)
8. High glucose levels
9. Poor circulation

Treating Dry Skin

Although dry skin tends to be a constant problem with diabetes, there are measures you can take to ease the situation.

1. Remember to moisturize with lotion. Thicker lotions tend to do a better job.
2. Drink plenty of water
3. Stay away from hot water when bathing or showering because it will further dry the skin. Use lukewarm water.
4. Reduce the number of baths or showers opting for sponge baths for odor producing areas of the body (under arms, genitals, underneath the breasts)
5. Use mild hydrating soaps
6. Avoid soaps that are gritty or abrasive. Use unscented if skin has a tendency to allergic reaction
7. Stay away from callus removers because the acid can cause wounds that will heal slowly and you can risk infection. See your doctor if you have problem calluses.
8. Do not cut off calluses with a razor blade!
9. Avoid pumice stones which can cause breaks in the skin.
10. During cold season use a humidifier in your home
11. Do not put lotion between toes