Readers discouraged when told of white out

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!
Here are just a few reader comments:
Mary W. says, "I went to five major drugstores and called others, and was told by one that 'white iodine is no longer available.'" (Not true. -- Heloise)
Sharon K. says: "I've been to four different stores/pharmacies, and none of them knows anything about white iodine. And they also proceeded to ask me why they were getting so many requests for it all of a sudden! It must be your readers."
Lori B. says: "I checked three places, and no one had heard of it. However, since your column came out, they have gotten many requests for the white iodine."
Carolyn T. says: "I went to four drugstores in search of it. Every pharmacist I asked told me that they tried to get it from their supplier, without any luck."
OK, folks, here is the story: 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.
So, there you have it, friends. To use decolorized iodine on your nails, apply it daily for only a week, then only once a week after that. Heloise
P.S.: If the pharmacy is hesitant to order for just one person, maybe some girlfriends can get together, or see if co-workers are interested. Then you can ask the pharmacy to order six or so bottles. It's not that expensive (less than 5), and it will last you a long time!
Fast facts
Dear Readers: Here are some great nail hints:
Moisturize cuticles and nails often.
Try to keep nails out of water and harsh chemicals.
Don't pick or peel nail polish off.
Massage the cuticles to stimulate good blood flow.
If you are past a certain age (!), ask your doctor about adding Biotin, an over-the-counter B vitamin that seems to help with nail strength, which might decrease as we age. I am NOT a physician, and I don't play one on TV, but this is what I have learned recently. Heloise
Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate