Health Tips You Didn't Know You Needed

By: Holly L. Thacker, MD • Posted on April 23, 2025

Throughout my career as a physician, I have learned many helpful ways to treat certain conditions from my colleagues and other experts. And I want to share these with you with hope that they can help you when you need them.

15 skincare tips for healthy, younger skin

These tips are safe ways to improve skin, gut health, promote immunity, help with weight loss and more. However, please talk with your healthcare clinician before trying anything new.

1. Cicalfate

Cicalfate contains zinc oxide, copper and sukrofate. This is my go-to gift for new parents because it’s great for diaper rashes in babies.

• Cicalfate is good for cuts because it’s an antibacterial and protective paste, which helps the skin heal better.

2. Arnica

Arnica is an herb that you can rub on your skin, reducing inflammation and bleeding. 

• Arnica can help reduce healing time for bruises.

3. Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin stored in the body's fat tissue and liver. Vitamin K helps in blood clotting and strengthens bones.

• Vitamin K also helps minimize bruising.
• There are products available that contain both Arnica and Vitamin K, which work together to reduce swelling deep below your skin. 

4. Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is an antioxidant compound in plant cells.

• Ferulic acid is found in Vitamin C products and helps fade sun damage and it brightens skin.

5. Iron oxide

Iron oxides are naturally occurring mineral deposits.

• Regular exposure to blue light can cause hyperpigmentation on the skin. Products that contain iron oxide protect skin from blue light, like computer screens.

6. Apple cider vinegar

• Drinking apple cider vinegar regularly can improve insulin levels, reduce blood sugar, support a healthy gut micro-biome, improve cardiovascular function and help with weight loss.
• Apple cider vinegar can be used as a dandruff treatment.
• Because apple cider vinegar contains alpha-hydroxy acid, it can help remove dead skin cells and reveal bright, vibrant skin.
• ACV can improve nail health and appearance:
• Drinking ACV regularly can help absorb certain nutrients, improving overall immunity and digestion.

7. Ginger 

Ginger is an herb that has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-atherosclerotic effects and can be ingested, 3 g per day. 

• Ginger can be used to treat nausea.

8. Chili peppers

Chili peppers are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and capsaicin, which can benefit the immune system, support heart health and help with weight loss.

9. Eucalyptus oil  

Eucalyptus is a popular ingredient in topical pain relievers. It works by bringing a warm or cold sensation to the skin that takes your mind off the pain.

• Studies show that breathing in eucalyptus oil before and post-surgery can help reduce anxiety.
• Research states that the natural toothpastes containing eucalyptus work just as well as the standard ones in preventing gingivitis and plaque buildup. 

10. Honey 

• Honey can help with coughs and cold symptoms.

11. Peppermint 

• May help relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms as well as headaches.

12. Garlic 

• Some studies show that eating garlic can help lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure. 

13. Turmeric 

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. 

• Some studies have shown that turmeric can help improve osteoarthritis and may have anti-cancer and anti-atherosclerotic effects.
• Beware if you are on blood thinners, Coumadin or have G.I. distress, a side effect of turmeric can be increased bleeding time.
• Applying turmeric to the skin can help with acne, rosacea, eczema, and it can help give your skin a glow.

14. Green tea 

• Research shows that green tea may improve heart health, brain health and potentially help with weight loss.
• Green tea may help improve digestion, but some studies suggest it can also cause digestive issues.

15. Vitamin C

Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in the body to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals like air pollution, radiation from the sun, tobacco smoke and exposure to toxic chemicals.

• Vitamin C plays an important role in the body's immune function, collagen production and wound healing.
• Most people get enough vitamin C from eating a healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables.

In addition to these tips above, remember the importance of quality sleep, exercise and a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. 

Be Strong, Be Healthy, Be in Charge!
-Holly L. Thacker, MD