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HEALTH
That's disgusting: nail biting
Can't keep your hands occupied during a boring class? You may want to stick to the Sudoku or try to crack that crossword. Whatever you do, don't gnaw on your nails. Biting your fingernails doesn't just result in unsightly digits—it also offers bacteria an easy road from your hands to your mouth.
"Bacteria love to grow under fingernails," says Student Health Services coordinator Jenny McKee. "All sorts of stuff can get caught up in there when you are answering phones, touching door handles or just being in public spaces."
McKee says the area beneath fingernails is a very protective place, and thus a great environment for bacteria to hide and multiply.According to a study published in the 2008 Journal of Oral Microbiology and Immunology, chronic nail-biters are three times more likely to carry harmful bacteria in their mouths than people who don't bite their nails. Aside from the common cold or flu, hand-to-mouth contact can
lead to the transportation of more serious infections such as pinworms.
For those who just can't help the habit, McKee recommends taking extra care when it comes to hand washing. If water and soap aren't readily available, instant hand sanitizer or fingernail brushes can help keep bacteria at bay.
Student Health Services plans to host hand washing events in on-campus dining halls to educate students about the importance of proper hygiene as flu season approaches.
—Asher Fusco
Mineral Makeup
If you've watched infomercials on the TV Guide channel or walked down a cosmetics aisle lately, you've probably noticed the growing number of mineral makeups available. Mineral makeup comes in a variety of forms, such as foundations, blushes and eye shadows, and bases its popularity on the notion that it's better for your skin than other makeups.
Although this last point is open to debate, Lee Bittenbender, Lawrence dermatologist, says that any woman who wears make-up should consider using mineral makeup. Mineral makeups can be beneficial both for what they do and don't include. Because it lacks fragrances, oils and preservatives, mineral makeup is less likely to irritate the skin.The addition of
vitamins, anti-oxidants and sunscreen also helps to nourish and protect the skin.
Bittenbender warns that not all mineral makeup are alike, however. Cosmetic companies may advertise their products as natural, but Bittenbender says this is an advertising buzzword and an unregulated term that means nothing on the market.A makeup may contain minerals commonly found in the more expensive brands,but these makeup may also contain the same fragrances and oils as other makeups. Be sure to check the label before you make a purchase.
Bittenbender recommends brands such as Bare Minerals and Jane Iradale.
VERDICT: GOOD FOR YOU
—Susan Melgren
Your mind isn't the only thing that needs exercise.
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September 11,2008
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