Hints from Heloise

Dear Readers: This is in response to a recent letter from a reader in my column about weak nails and using white iodine to help strengthen them. I have received a ton of e-mails, letters and faxes from loyal readers stating that they cannot find white iodine. I should have printed it as “decolorized iodine” – as pharmacists call it – but I have always called it “white” (as my mother did) to distinguish it from the iodine that is sort of red-orange and does stain.

White or decolorized iodine is not something that most pharmacies keep readily on hand, or they might have only one or two bottles, since it is not something that is asked for often. If the big chain drugstores are of no help, then call or visit a local or independent pharmacy or drugstore. This item can be ordered; it just might take a little effort. You can order it on the Internet (I have done this), and I have found it here in San Antonio in stores that sell mostly Hispanic products.– Heloise