Health Tips for August 30

Health Tip: Take Care of Aging Skin

Many an advertiser touts products that purport to keep your skin looking young.

But as AARP says of products that can cost more than $100 for a small tube: "Even if the ingredients aren't harmful, at often exorbitant prices they could remove more cash from your wallet than wrinkles from your skin."

AARP offers these less expensive and probably safer alternatives:

* Moisturizers can help keep the skin from drying out, and may temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
* Exfoliating products may help improve your appearance by getting rid of dead surface skin cells.
* So-called "cosmeceuticals," alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids also can help skin look younger, but some may irritate skin and should be prescribed by a dermatologist.
* "Some of the most confusing questions in skin care concern the use of vitamins and antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, and E) and ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10)," AARP says. "In theory, the use of these substances in moisturizers and other cosmetics makes sense," it continues.
* These and other skin care products should be used with a doctor's approval, especially if you have sensitive skin. Always read product labels carefully before trying something new.

Health Tip: Warning Signs of a Bleeding Disorder

Routine heavy bleeding during menstrual periods shouldn't be ignored. It may be a sign of a bleeding disorder that can be treated.

The National Women's Health Information Center says the following symptoms may indicate a bleeding disorder, and should be evaluated by a doctor:

* Having very heavy periods.
* Bleeding frequently in the mouth or gums.
* Having frequent nosebleeds, or nosebleeds that continue for long periods.
* Bruising easily.
* Bleeding excessively after an injury or after surgery.
* Bleeding heavily or for a long time from a minor cut or injury.
* Having blood in the stool or urine.