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Email us now! (The more random the question, the better!)
I've recently lost weight through diet and a serious workout regimen. But I've also noticed a drop in my sex drive. What gives?
-Megan R
Through dieting, you may have depleted nutrients that help you produce enough of the hormones and neurotransmitters for arousal, says Dr Yvonne Fulbright, author of Pleasuring: The Secrets of Sexual Satisfaction. And the exercise may be leaving you tired. "It's providing a physical release and high that may have previously been obtained solely from sex, which could explain a decreased physical need for sex," says WH sex expert, Jacqueline Hellyer. To reclaim your mojo, eat foods rich in vitamin E (hazelnuts and almonds), magnesium (leafy greens), calcium (low-fat dairy) and vitamin C (berries).
It's been two years since my friend's wedding and I haven't given her a gift. Should I get her one?
- Shelly C
Send a gift and include a note that acknowledges - but doesn't dwell on - your lapse, says Sharon Naylor, author of The Essential Guide to Wedding Etiquette. Start with a comment about the wedding and slip in a quick apology: "Had a wonderful time - we still talk about how much fun the dancing was! Sorry I didn't get this to you sooner." Send a gift voucher from a store on her registry, since the other guests would have snagged all the primo items.
My friend borrowed money from me - how can I ask for it back?
- Beth S
Be friendly but direct, says etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore. Set a payback date - 30 to 90 days from now. If she misses it, say, "It's important I get the money back, and you've taken advantage of my generosity," Whitmore says. In future, if it's a big sum, draft an IOU with your names, the amount and repayment terms.
How should I use the heart-rate zones on cardio machines?
-Tess B
Ignore preset zones - they're based on weight and age averages, and research shows people undertrain when they follow them. Instead, use a heart rate monitor to define personal zones, says exercise physiologist Carol Espel. Work out for five minutes at a low-intensity pace that makes you break a sweat. Record your heart rate. Next, ramp it up to an endurance-training pace (challenging, but you can talk). Record your heart rate again. Finally, push the intensity to a performance-training pace (uncomfortable - you can't sustain it for more than 30 seconds). Record your heart rate again. These digits reflect your true heart-rate zones. "Tracking these numbers can help improve your fitness and burn more kJs," Espel says. "Alternate between low- and high-intensity days for balanced training."
How can I tell which mascara will work best for me? There are so many!
-Kirsten D
There's a simple way to find the mascara that works for you, says WH beauty ed Nicole Wraight. The secret: the shape of the wand and the placement and thickness of bristles. Each affects how much mascara goes on and where. The formula also matters - that's what hydrates your lashes and sets them in place. Some of our faves: CoverGirl LashBlast ($17.95) for volume, Mirenesse Secret Weapon Super Curl ($35) for curl, and Givenchy Phenomenom Eyes ($49) for goof-proof application.
My hair grows slower than my friends' does - any ideas why?
-Nicole C
According to Tony Pearce, clinical director of Australia's National Trichology Services (hairlossclinic.com.au), there are factors that may slow hair growth, including deficiencies in nutrients - such as iron, iodine, zinc and vitamin D - being overweight, having heavy periods, or being highly stressed. "Hair is an appendage of the skin, as are nails, so when your body is struggling to keep vital areas running smoothly, your hair is the first tissue to lose support," says Pearce. If you're worried about lazy hair growth, see your GP for a blood test to ensure you're getting optimal amounts of vital nutrients, or see a qualified hair-loss expert.
I am a vegetarian and I'm struggling to control my flatulence due to my really high-fibre diet. Help!
-Candice L
"While the high-fibre diet is the most likely cause of your bloating and flatulence, go to your GP to exclude other causes, like inflammatory bowel disease or an ovarian disorder," says WH health expert Dr Ginni Mansberg. "They're both rare and unlikely, but better cross that T before you move on!" Dr Mansberg also suggests asking your GP about possible irritable bowel syndrome or a lactose intolerance. Assuming they're all ruled out: try keeping a food diary for a few weeks. You might find that certain foods cause more gas and bloating than others. Raw vegies tend to be culprits, so some people find that if they cook their vegies, the problem clears up.
I left a load of laundry in the washer for a week, and now my clothes smell nasty. What's the best way to banish the odour?
-Amy S
To kill the bacteria that funked up your duds and washing machine, add a quarter cup of bleach to your empty washer and run it through a cycle, recommends Steve Boorstein, author of The Clothing Doctor's 99 Secrets to Cleaning & Clothing Care. Then rewash your last batch of clothes "using a detergent designed for heavy dirt, plus a scoop of stain remover to really kick the cleaning power up a notch," Boorstein says.
Are non-stick pans safe?
-Ann M
The jury is still out, but a Swedish study showed PFOAs, the chemicals used to make these slippery products, were present in the blood of 100 per cent of the 3802 Aussie residents who were tested. "And there are no natural sources [of PFOAs]," says study co-author Dr Anna Kärrman. A recent study from the University of California School of Public Health suggested PFOA exposure may adversely affect a woman's fertility, and other studies have linked PFOAs with birth defects and cancer in animals. To play it safe, cook with stainless steel.
I have to make a toast at my sister's wedding. Any tips?
-Gwyneth M
"This is not the time to share embarrassing stories," says Joe McCleskey from Toastmasters International. "A good toast is brief, personal, and heartfelt." Share memories that highlight your sister's good points, but skip the in-jokes - you don't want to alienate guests.
Are air-conditioners bad for the environment?
-Sarah W
"Air-conditioners are very energy intensive," says Sarah Hanson-Young, a senator for the Australian Greens and WH's green expert. "Unless solar-powered, the electricity used when you switch your cooler on is produced by a carbon-emitting power plant." Instead, Hanson-Young suggests keeping cool by shutting blinds in the day, opening windows at night, and using ceiling fans. "If you need the air-con on, don't set the temp any lower than 24ºC, which should be comfy - otherwise the system will work harder and waste energy."
Can chicken pox strike twice?
- Robyn V
You can be reinfected by the varcella-zoster virus, which causes chicken pox in kids and shingles in adults, but it's rare. "Once you've had chicken pox, you usually become immune to it for life," says Dr Brunilda Nazario, a specialist in endocrinology and metabolism.
How do I microwave veg without them getting rubbery?
- Jen S
The two biggest mistakes people make when microwaving vegies are dousing them with too much water and cooking them too long, says Dave Lieberman, author of Dave's Dinners. Wash your veg (don't dry them), then place in a microwave dish with the lid slightly open - this'll steam them yet let heat escape so your dish doesn't explode. As for cooking times, a good starting point is one minute for each cup of tender produce (like spinach and asparagus) and three minutes for each cup of heartier veg (broccoli and carrots). After the initial time is up, cook for 30 more seconds then check and repeat until they're as you like them.
Do I really need to go the dentist twice a year?
- Beth-ann C
Basically, yes. "Everyone should have a maintenance visit at least once a year," says Dr Neil Hewson, President of the Australian Dental Association.
If you have gum disease or decay, your dentist will probably ask you to come and see him every six months, or even every three months if you have high decay rates or severe gum disease.
Is there any way to help a burnt tongue heal fast?
- Mariah H
Take a swig of liquid Mylanta Double Strength and swirl it around, says Dr Alan Hirsch, founder of the Smell & Taste Treatment & Research Foundation. It seems the white stuff, which contains magnesium hydroxide, can act as a coating, allowing the tongue's epithelium - the outer layer of cells - to regrow b neutralising acids that can slow healing. Just don't swallow it - magnesium hydroxide also acts as a laxative.
What are the best undies to wear in spin class?
-Rebecca R
"I recommend padded cycling shorts for ladies," says Christian Mason, Health and Fitness Expert and National Operations Manager, Virgin Active Health Clubs. They are not just built for comfort but will actually help you to sit correctly in the seat which in turn will keep your pelvis stable and in the right alignment.
Does iced tea have the same health benefits as hot tea?
-Amber J
Not quite. Brewing tea leaves in steaming water releases catechins, disease-fighting antioxidants, says Joe Vinson, a chemistry professor. Because bottled iced tea is diluted from brewed tea, you have to drink more of it to get the same benefit. But, when hot tea is refrigerated, it will still retain catechins for several hours.
Why do my eyes get painful and red every arvo?
-Chathurika M
It could be dry eyes, which is annoying but not a threat to your eyesight, says WH health expert Dr Ginni Mansberg. Try eye drops like Murine Revital Eyes to relieve them. You may even have allergic conjunctivitis, or it could be blepharitis, which is often a complication of a skin condition, like eczema or psoriasis. So, see a doctor for diagnosis.
Is there anything I can do to help hold my pee in when I'm stuck in my car and there's nowhere to go?
-Tabitha B
All you can do is squeeze, says Dr David Klumpp, an assistant professor of neurology who investigates bladder biology. And do Kegel exercises. But you need to do these before you're stranded between stop, revive, survive points to strengthen the area and make it easier to hold on. To find out about Kegel exercises, go to our website.
How do I quit my BlackBerry addiction but stay available to my boss?
-Sarah B
It isn't nicknamed CrackBerry for nothin'. They can get seriously addictive, says Donna Gerson, co-author of The Modern Rules for Business Etiquette. Ask your boss how fast she expects you to respond: three hours? 30 minutes? Whatever the interval, turn off your BlackBerry for that amount of time when not working. When you switch it on, reply to emails that demand immediate attention, then turn if off until the next check in.
My fiancé has herpes and is on antiviral meds. Do we need to use condoms?
-Anna W
"Antivirals reduce risk of contracting herpes by 50 per cent or more," says Dr Ina Cholst, an associate professor of clinical gynaecology and obstetrics. Still, using a condom every time you have sex won't provide 100 per cent protection. The most effective prevention is to combine antivirals and condom use with abstinence during outbreaks.
My husband's boss has a gross habit of kissing me on the lips at parties. How do I address it without making things weird for my partner?
- Emma S
This lippy practice isn't appropriate, says etiquette advisor Anna Post. Keep him at arm's length - literally. "As he approaches, smile warmly but stick your hand out for a handshake," Post says. "If he starts to pull you in, plant your feet and keep your arms stiff." He should get the message pretty quickly.
How can I quickly get rid of sleep lines on my face?
- Yvette M
Gently scrub your face for about a minute with a granular exfoliant, says dermatologist Dr Francesca Fusco. Rinse and pat dry. Follow with a moisturiser that has panthenol or hyaluronic acid, which helps the lotion soak in. Try using a satin pillowcase, as it's less likely to crimp and leave lines in the first place.
I really suck at remembering names. How can I get better?
- Jan I
With repetition. Frequently saying the name can help beef up the protein kalirin-7, which helps you retain new info by increasing neural connections in the brain. Dr David Lieberman, author of Learning and Memory (amazon.com), suggests picturing a very specific image (see Mr Smithson as a blacksmith and his son).
What can you catch from dirty gym mats?
- Kelly P
Exercise mats can be grosser than kids' pools. A mind-boggling variety of germs and bacteria can swim in the thin film of sweat left by the last person who used it. You could contract athlete's food, rashes, ringworms, E. coli, flu viruses and staph bacteria, says Dr Anne Maczulak, author of The Five-Second Rule and Other Myths About Germs (amazon.com). She recommends bringing your own mat and washing it often with warm, soapy water. If you must use a gym mat, spray it with disinfectant.
My co-worker freaks out under pressure. How can I help her without getting sucked into her drama?
- Elena L
"Your colleague needs a stress-management refresher on how to assess a situation realistically and break it down into more manageable bites," says psychiatrist Dr Carol Landau. Listen to her, but set boundaries. State up front that you only have five minutes to chat. When time's up, tell her "I need to get back to my project."
I got a stainless- steel water bottle to be more eco-friendly but the water tastes metallic. Is this safe? And how can I get rid of the taste?
- Abby D
High-quality stainless-steel bottles are non-toxic and non-leaching. A metallic tinge might mean your bottle doesn't have an internal liner, says Sara Snow, a green lifestyle expert and author of Sara Snow's Fresh Living (amazon.com). She recommends rinsing the bottle with a mix of 1 cup white vinegar and 4 cups water - or if you're not a vinegar fan, use 1 tsp baking soda instead. Do this once every few months or until the taste of metal is gone.
My toenails have a yellow tint, but isn't not fungus. Can I make them white again?
- Jessica P
According to nail specialist Dr Richard Scher, once fungus is ruled out, the problem might be wearing nail polish for several weeks. Chemicals from lacquer can seep into your nails; it can take nine months to a year for new, whiter toenails to grow. Can't wait? Use a nail whitener.
Ask WH- email us your questions now
Email us now! (The more random the question, the better!)
I've recently lost weight through diet and a serious workout regimen. But I've also noticed a drop in my sex drive. What gives?
-Megan R
Through dieting, you may have depleted nutrients that help you produce enough of the hormones and neurotransmitters for arousal, says Dr Yvonne Fulbright, author of Pleasuring: The Secrets of Sexual Satisfaction. And the exercise may be leaving you tired. "It's providing a physical release and high that may have previously been obtained solely from sex, which could explain a decreased physical need for sex," says WH sex expert, Jacqueline Hellyer. To reclaim your mojo, eat foods rich in vitamin E (hazelnuts and almonds), magnesium (leafy greens), calcium (low-fat dairy) and vitamin C (berries).
It's been two years since my friend's wedding and I haven't given her a gift. Should I get her one?
- Shelly C
Send a gift and include a note that acknowledges - but doesn't dwell on - your lapse, says Sharon Naylor, author of The Essential Guide to Wedding Etiquette. Start with a comment about the wedding and slip in a quick apology: "Had a wonderful time - we still talk about how much fun the dancing was! Sorry I didn't get this to you sooner." Send a gift voucher from a store on her registry, since the other guests would have snagged all the primo items.
My friend borrowed money from me - how can I ask for it back?
- Beth S
Be friendly but direct, says etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore. Set a payback date - 30 to 90 days from now. If she misses it, say, "It's important I get the money back, and you've taken advantage of my generosity," Whitmore says. In future, if it's a big sum, draft an IOU with your names, the amount and repayment terms.
How should I use the heart-rate zones on cardio machines?
-Tess B
Ignore preset zones - they're based on weight and age averages, and research shows people undertrain when they follow them. Instead, use a heart rate monitor to define personal zones, says exercise physiologist Carol Espel. Work out for five minutes at a low-intensity pace that makes you break a sweat. Record your heart rate. Next, ramp it up to an endurance-training pace (challenging, but you can talk). Record your heart rate again. Finally, push the intensity to a performance-training pace (uncomfortable - you can't sustain it for more than 30 seconds). Record your heart rate again. These digits reflect your true heart-rate zones. "Tracking these numbers can help improve your fitness and burn more kJs," Espel says. "Alternate between low- and high-intensity days for balanced training."
How can I tell which mascara will work best for me? There are so many!
-Kirsten D
There's a simple way to find the mascara that works for you, says WH beauty ed Nicole Wraight. The secret: the shape of the wand and the placement and thickness of bristles. Each affects how much mascara goes on and where. The formula also matters - that's what hydrates your lashes and sets them in place. Some of our faves: CoverGirl LashBlast ($17.95) for volume, Mirenesse Secret Weapon Super Curl ($35) for curl, and Givenchy Phenomenom Eyes ($49) for goof-proof application.
My hair grows slower than my friends' does - any ideas why?
-Nicole C
According to Tony Pearce, clinical director of Australia's National Trichology Services (hairlossclinic.com.au), there are factors that may slow hair growth, including deficiencies in nutrients - such as iron, iodine, zinc and vitamin D - being overweight, having heavy periods, or being highly stressed. "Hair is an appendage of the skin, as are nails, so when your body is struggling to keep vital areas running smoothly, your hair is the first tissue to lose support," says Pearce. If you're worried about lazy hair growth, see your GP for a blood test to ensure you're getting optimal amounts of vital nutrients, or see a qualified hair-loss expert.
I am a vegetarian and I'm struggling to control my flatulence due to my really high-fibre diet. Help!
-Candice L
"While the high-fibre diet is the most likely cause of your bloating and flatulence, go to your GP to exclude other causes, like inflammatory bowel disease or an ovarian disorder," says WH health expert Dr Ginni Mansberg. "They're both rare and unlikely, but better cross that T before you move on!" Dr Mansberg also suggests asking your GP about possible irritable bowel syndrome or a lactose intolerance. Assuming they're all ruled out: try keeping a food diary for a few weeks. You might find that certain foods cause more gas and bloating than others. Raw vegies tend to be culprits, so some people find that if they cook their vegies, the problem clears up.
I left a load of laundry in the washer for a week, and now my clothes smell nasty. What's the best way to banish the odour?
-Amy S
To kill the bacteria that funked up your duds and washing machine, add a quarter cup of bleach to your empty washer and run it through a cycle, recommends Steve Boorstein, author of The Clothing Doctor's 99 Secrets to Cleaning & Clothing Care. Then rewash your last batch of clothes "using a detergent designed for heavy dirt, plus a scoop of stain remover to really kick the cleaning power up a notch," Boorstein says.
Are non-stick pans safe?
-Ann M
The jury is still out, but a Swedish study showed PFOAs, the chemicals used to make these slippery products, were present in the blood of 100 per cent of the 3802 Aussie residents who were tested. "And there are no natural sources [of PFOAs]," says study co-author Dr Anna Kärrman. A recent study from the University of California School of Public Health suggested PFOA exposure may adversely affect a woman's fertility, and other studies have linked PFOAs with birth defects and cancer in animals. To play it safe, cook with stainless steel.
I have to make a toast at my sister's wedding. Any tips?
-Gwyneth M
"This is not the time to share embarrassing stories," says Joe McCleskey from Toastmasters International. "A good toast is brief, personal, and heartfelt." Share memories that highlight your sister's good points, but skip the in-jokes - you don't want to alienate guests.
Are air-conditioners bad for the environment?
-Sarah W
"Air-conditioners are very energy intensive," says Sarah Hanson-Young, a senator for the Australian Greens and WH's green expert. "Unless solar-powered, the electricity used when you switch your cooler on is produced by a carbon-emitting power plant." Instead, Hanson-Young suggests keeping cool by shutting blinds in the day, opening windows at night, and using ceiling fans. "If you need the air-con on, don't set the temp any lower than 24ºC, which should be comfy - otherwise the system will work harder and waste energy."
Can chicken pox strike twice?
- Robyn V
You can be reinfected by the varcella-zoster virus, which causes chicken pox in kids and shingles in adults, but it's rare. "Once you've had chicken pox, you usually become immune to it for life," says Dr Brunilda Nazario, a specialist in endocrinology and metabolism.
How do I microwave veg without them getting rubbery?
- Jen S
The two biggest mistakes people make when microwaving vegies are dousing them with too much water and cooking them too long, says Dave Lieberman, author of Dave's Dinners. Wash your veg (don't dry them), then place in a microwave dish with the lid slightly open - this'll steam them yet let heat escape so your dish doesn't explode. As for cooking times, a good starting point is one minute for each cup of tender produce (like spinach and asparagus) and three minutes for each cup of heartier veg (broccoli and carrots). After the initial time is up, cook for 30 more seconds then check and repeat until they're as you like them.
Do I really need to go the dentist twice a year?
- Beth-ann C
Basically, yes. "Everyone should have a maintenance visit at least once a year," says Dr Neil Hewson, President of the Australian Dental Association.
If you have gum disease or decay, your dentist will probably ask you to come and see him every six months, or even every three months if you have high decay rates or severe gum disease.
Is there any way to help a burnt tongue heal fast?
- Mariah H
Take a swig of liquid Mylanta Double Strength and swirl it around, says Dr Alan Hirsch, founder of the Smell & Taste Treatment & Research Foundation. It seems the white stuff, which contains magnesium hydroxide, can act as a coating, allowing the tongue's epithelium - the outer layer of cells - to regrow b neutralising acids that can slow healing. Just don't swallow it - magnesium hydroxide also acts as a laxative.
What are the best undies to wear in spin class?
-Rebecca R
"I recommend padded cycling shorts for ladies," says Christian Mason, Health and Fitness Expert and National Operations Manager, Virgin Active Health Clubs. They are not just built for comfort but will actually help you to sit correctly in the seat which in turn will keep your pelvis stable and in the right alignment.
Why do I get diarrhoea and lower back pain during my period?
- Alice N
"Nobody knows why different people experience different period problems," says WH's health expert, Dr Ginni Mansberg. "But bowel and back symptoms might be a sign of endometriosis - a condition where the lining of the uterus starts growing where it shouldn't, such as on the ovaries, bowel and at the back of the pelvis." She suggests having a check-up with a GP. Period pain meds may relieve back ache.
Does iced tea have the same health benefits as hot tea?
-Amber J
Not quite. Brewing tea leaves in steaming water releases catechins, disease-fighting antioxidants, says Joe Vinson, a chemistry professor. Because bottled iced tea is diluted from brewed tea, you have to drink more of it to get the same benefit. But, when hot tea is refrigerated, it will still retain catechins for several hours.
Why do my eyes get painful and red every arvo?
-Chathurika M
It could be dry eyes, which is annoying but not a threat to your eyesight, says WH health expert Dr Ginni Mansberg. Try eye drops like Murine Revital Eyes to relieve them. You may even have allergic conjunctivitis, or it could be blepharitis, which is often a complication of a skin condition, like eczema or psoriasis. So, see a doctor for diagnosis.
Is there anything I can do to help hold my pee in when I'm stuck in my car and there's nowhere to go?
-Tabitha B
All you can do is squeeze, says Dr David Klumpp, an assistant professor of neurology who investigates bladder biology. And do Kegel exercises. But you need to do these before you're stranded between stop, revive, survive points to strengthen the area and make it easier to hold on. To find out about Kegel exercises, go to our website.
How do I quit my BlackBerry addiction but stay available to my boss?
-Sarah B
It isn't nicknamed CrackBerry for nothin'. They can get seriously addictive, says Donna Gerson, co-author of The Modern Rules for Business Etiquette. Ask your boss how fast she expects you to respond: three hours? 30 minutes? Whatever the interval, turn off your BlackBerry for that amount of time when not working. When you switch it on, reply to emails that demand immediate attention, then turn if off until the next check in.
My fiancé has herpes and is on antiviral meds. Do we need to use condoms?
-Anna W
"Antivirals reduce risk of contracting herpes by 50 per cent or more," says Dr Ina Cholst, an associate professor of clinical gynaecology and obstetrics. Still, using a condom every time you have sex won't provide 100 per cent protection. The most effective prevention is to combine antivirals and condom use with abstinence during outbreaks.
My husband's boss has a gross habit of kissing me on the lips at parties. How do I address it without making things weird for my partner?
- Emma S
This lippy practice isn't appropriate, says etiquette advisor Anna Post. Keep him at arm's length - literally. "As he approaches, smile warmly but stick your hand out for a handshake," Post says. "If he starts to pull you in, plant your feet and keep your arms stiff." He should get the message pretty quickly.
How can I quickly get rid of sleep lines on my face?
- Yvette M
Gently scrub your face for about a minute with a granular exfoliant, says dermatologist Dr Francesca Fusco. Rinse and pat dry. Follow with a moisturiser that has panthenol or hyaluronic acid, which helps the lotion soak in. Try using a satin pillowcase, as it's less likely to crimp and leave lines in the first place.
I really suck at remembering names. How can I get better?
- Jan I
With repetition. Frequently saying the name can help beef up the protein kalirin-7, which helps you retain new info by increasing neural connections in the brain. Dr David Lieberman, author of Learning and Memory (amazon.com), suggests picturing a very specific image (see Mr Smithson as a blacksmith and his son).
What can you catch from dirty gym mats?
- Kelly P
Exercise mats can be grosser than kids' pools. A mind-boggling variety of germs and bacteria can swim in the thin film of sweat left by the last person who used it. You could contract athlete's food, rashes, ringworms, E. coli, flu viruses and staph bacteria, says Dr Anne Maczulak, author of The Five-Second Rule and Other Myths About Germs (amazon.com). She recommends bringing your own mat and washing it often with warm, soapy water. If you must use a gym mat, spray it with disinfectant.
My co-worker freaks out under pressure. How can I help her without getting sucked into her drama?
- Elena L
"Your colleague needs a stress-management refresher on how to assess a situation realistically and break it down into more manageable bites," says psychiatrist Dr Carol Landau. Listen to her, but set boundaries. State up front that you only have five minutes to chat. When time's up, tell her "I need to get back to my project."
I got a stainless- steel water bottle to be more eco-friendly but the water tastes metallic. Is this safe? And how can I get rid of the taste?
- Abby D
High-quality stainless-steel bottles are non-toxic and non-leaching. A metallic tinge might mean your bottle doesn't have an internal liner, says Sara Snow, a green lifestyle expert and author of Sara Snow's Fresh Living (amazon.com). She recommends rinsing the bottle with a mix of 1 cup white vinegar and 4 cups water - or if you're not a vinegar fan, use 1 tsp baking soda instead. Do this once every few months or until the taste of metal is gone.
My toenails have a yellow tint, but isn't not fungus. Can I make them white again?
- Jessica P
According to nail specialist Dr Richard Scher, once fungus is ruled out, the problem might be wearing nail polish for several weeks. Chemicals from lacquer can seep into your nails; it can take nine months to a year for new, whiter toenails to grow. Can't wait? Use a nail whitener.
Ask WH- email us your questions now
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