Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: I bought some soap that has a high glycerin content. It is very moisturizing, but I noticed that there are beads of moisture that accumulate on the bar. What are these beads from? Is the soap losing its moisture? – Kathy R. in Texas

Here’s the dish on soap: Glycerin is a humectant. This means that when soap has a high glycerin content, it will develop those beads, because it absorbs water from the air. A soap that is high in glycerin softens the skin, as it attracts moisture to the skin. This also means that the soap will dissolve more quickly in water. – Heloise

Dear Heloise: My mother-in-law celebrated her 90th birthday while in a nursing home. She had no use for knickknacks, clothing or food items. I purchased some nice vases and requested that everyone bring one flower to create a special bouquet for her. She loved it, and everyone felt included. – Gail Salmen, Hot Springs Village, Ark.