Why do I have a monobrow?

It's no secret that some women grow excess hair between the eyebrows, along the upper lip or on the chin. Occasionally, this can be a sign of a medical condition, such as polycystic ovary syndrome. However, more often, it's just genetics. Plucking, waxing or regular use of a depilatory cream can help. Laser hair removal and electrolysis are long-term solutions.

Does anything banish cellulite?

No woman wants her rear compared to cottage cheese. Unfortunately, a type of fat called cellulite can create dimpled skin on the buttocks, hips and thighs. Exercising to lose excess fat may help. Doctors question the value of cellulite creams, but those with caffeine may offer short-term improvements. Some cosmetic procedures also target cellulite.

Why do I blush so often?

Most people blush on occasion, especially when feeling shy or embarrassed. However, when patches of red pop up randomly on the cheeks, forehead or chin, rosacea may be to blame. This chronic skin condition is treated with cream, gel or oral medication. Frequent blushing along with a pounding heart during social situations can be a sign of social anxiety disorder.

Aren't I too young to go grey?

If you haven't reached 40 and more than half of your hair is white, you're "going grey" prematurely. In some cases, this can be a sign of a thyroid or pigment disorder. However, most often, you can thank your parents for the early grey genes. Fortunately, premature greying does not mean that your body is ageing more quickly than anyone else's.

Are those spots on my bottom?

Probably not. Small white or red bumps on the buttocks are most likely to be keratosis pilaris. This is a harmless skin condition that can also appear on the back, cheeks, upper arms and thighs. The condition may last for years but tends to disappear gradually by the age of 30. Until then, intensive moisturising can help reduce outbreaks.

How did I get stretch marks?

When the skin is stretched by pregnancy or weight gain the stretch can create scarring. Stretch marks are usually red or purple, then fade to a glossy white. They generally occur on the tummy, thighs, hips, breasts or lower back. The marks can be reduced with chemical peels or laser surgery. Lotions and creams are usually of little benefit.

Why do I have bad breath?

You brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, yet you still have a bad taste in your mouth -- a sign of bad breath. The cause could be gum disease, acid reflux, dry mouth or even a sinus infection. However, it is most likely that your diet is the culprit. Toothpaste is no match for heaps of onions and garlic. See if avoiding these foods helps. If not, check with your dentist.

Is there help for razor bumps?

Shaving bumps occur when regrowth curls back on itself and grows into the skin. The best way to treat and prevent the bumps is to stop shaving. Hair removal creams and laser treatment are possible alternatives. If you prefer to keep shaving, you might be able to prevent razor bumps by taking a hot shower first and using a thick shaving gel.

What's making my teeth dark?

If you drink coffee, tea, dark fizzy drinks or red wine, you have your answer. Smoking and some medicines can also discolour teeth. The first step toward whiter teeth is to brush and floss regularly to remove substances that stain teeth. Teeth whitening systems, ranging from over-the-counter kits to bleaching by a dentist, can also help.

How can I soften callused feet?

Calluses are common on the heels and balls of the feet. The thick layers of dead skin can help protect your feet from the pressure of walking. However, you may not like the sight of rough, yellowish heels peeking out of your sandals. Soaking your feet in hot water and scrubbing with a pumice stone can remove some of the dead skin.

Why do my nails split and fray?

If your hands are often exposed to water or strong soap, your nails may tend to split, peel or become brittle. Using a moisturiser and protecting your hands from water may help. If the nails are yellow or white in addition to splitting and crumbling, a fungal infection may be to blame. You may need a prescription from your doctor to cure the infection.

Why do I sweat so much?

The purpose of sweat is to cool your body. If you tend to sweat when that's not necessary -- for example, while sitting calmly in a cool room -- you may have hyperhidrosis. This condition causes annoying but harmless excessive sweating under the arms and on the palms and soles of the feet. Unless very mild, prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis or even Botox may be recommended to calm the sweat.

Help, I'm losing my hair!

Hair loss in women is more common than you might think. By the time they’re 40, 40% of women have visible hair loss. The most common causes are anaemia or thyroid problems, pregnancy, certain medications and hormonal imbalances. Hair loss may be treated with topical solutions to stimulate hair growth or treatment to address the underlying cause.

Why do my feet smell?

Even if you shower regularly, foot odour can be stubborn. The soles of the feet are a favourite place for odour-causing bacteria. When sweat mixes with the bacteria, you get that familiar foot stench. Keep the feet dry and avoid shoes that make your feet sweat. Wash socks after every use. If your shoes have a lingering smell, try a deodoriser.

How can I soften chapped lips?

When dry air leaves the lips dehydrated, they develop tiny cracks. This can make the lips sensitive and unsightly. To reverse the damage, avoid licking your lips, which only causes more dehydration. Instead, use a lip balm made with petroleum jelly, castor seed oil or shea butter. This will seal in moisture and protect the lips from the elements. Look for one with SPF15. The sun's damaging rays can dry your lips even more.

Why do I have spider veins?

Are you a teacher, a nurse or a shop assistant? Women with jobs that keep them on their feet are more likely to develop varicose veins or spider veins. Obesity, pregnancy, and genetics also boost your risk. Spider veins usually don't need treatment, but some women choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. One effective procedure is sclerotherapy, which involves injecting the veins with a saline solution or chemical to make them gradually disappear.

Should I worry about skin tags?

Skin tags are tiny balls of tissue that sprout along the neck, chest, back and armpits. They are more common in women and elderly people. While they occasionally become irritated, skin tags are not dangerous. If the appearance of skin tags bothers you, your doctor can remove them by freezing them.

What makes my neck age so quickly?

If you've lost a lot of weight, you may have excess skin hanging around the neck. If your neck muscles have grown loose, you may have neck bands. Either way, your neck may look older than your face. If you are really unhappy with your neck’s appearance you may consider cosmetic treatments. Ask your GP’s advice before seeking these.

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