Valerie O’Connor looks at the wondrous uses of common ingredients.

Bepantiseptic First Aid Cream treats a wide range of summer’s little emergencies such as insect bites and stings, minor burns, blisters, cuts, and scrapes.

When I have a bowel movement it has an offensive smell that lingers, regardless of what I have eaten. It’s embarrassing to share a room. I am worried that there is something seriously wrong with me. I don’t eat sugary things. I don’t smoke and only have the occasional drink. My doctor prescribed Colofac to no avail. I have also tried Fybogel. I take vitamin C, krill oil, probiotic acidophilus and multi-vitamins. Also my hair and toenails are in poor condition.

WE’VE shivered through the extra-long winter and now it’s time for the after-effects — dire heating bills and drab skin in need of some TLC.