Ask Well

Experts explain what fiber supplements can and can’t do for your health.

Dermatologists explain the benefits — and drawbacks — of this popular option.

Some influencers say that doing so can offer benefits. We looked at the evidence.

The dreaded bumps can occur anywhere you shave, wax or pluck. Here’s how to avoid them.

If it’s not medically necessary, you may want to consider the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

Issues with hygiene are common symptoms of depression. Here’s why, and how to make bathing a little easier.

Some versions can lead to dependence. Here’s what we know about the risks.

Anti-tick medications exist for dogs, but certain concerns have hindered their development for humans. That’s changing.

Many people pay the most attention to the skin on their face, but the rest of your body needs care, too. Here’s how to give it what it needs.

“Nutrient sequencing” is said to regulate blood sugar. We asked experts if the science holds up.

There are a few reasons that air travel can cause bloating. We have tips for making your next flight more comfortable.

Some people are especially sensitive to the weather, but it can be difficult to pinpoint why.

These pesky skin tears can be a huge pain. Here’s what to do if you get one, and how to prevent hangnails in the first place.

It’s been said to improve hydration, reduce inflammation, boost mood and more. We asked some experts if the claims were true.

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition. It’s also easily treated at home.

We asked alcohol researchers to explain what will — and won’t — prevent a hangover.

Ibuprofen can be a blessing for those with aches and pains, but overdoing it poses serious risks.

Cotton swabs may feel the most satisfying, but there are safer and more effective alternatives.

It can be a helpful barrier between your lips and the cold wind, but not all products are created equal.

Here’s what the research suggests about the link between hair dye and cancer.

These broken blood vessels can be unsightly, but they’re not a nuisance you have to live with.

The physical benefits are likely numerous. But there may be psychological ones, too.

We tackled congestion, constipation, coffee and more. Here’s the advice you need for a vigorous new year.

It’s linked to heartburn, disrupted sleep, metabolic issues and more.

Pimples can pop up at any age, experts say. But at-home treatments can help.

Hormones may be the most obvious culprit, but other factors can be at play.

Why your short-term memory falters, and how to make it better.

Some studies have linked cellphone use with cancer, so we asked some experts to explain the risk.

Symptoms can linger for days or weeks after testing negative, even for those who don’t develop long Covid.

There are thousands on the market, but relatively few situations where they’re proven to be beneficial.

It’s the quintessential flavor of fall. It also has big benefits for your health.

While dog lovers cherish their pets’ affection, those licks and nips can potentially spread harmful germs.

Your body’s need for fuel shifts as you get older. Your eating habits should shift, too.

Sifting through all the advice can be confusing. But dermatologists say simpler is better.

Coffee is linked with lots of health benefits, but most of the risks come from the caffeine.

Here’s how to get rid of it and when you might need a dermatologist’s help.

There’s no magic antidote, but experts say certain lifestyle choices can help.

As unsightly as it is, the infection is usually manageable — but only with the right treatment. Here’s how to kick it.

We have good news and a little advice for smoothie lovers.

Air pollution can trigger all sorts of symptoms, from the sniffles to congestion.

Ultraviolet rays from the sun can age your skin, or worse, if you are not careful.

Our bowels don’t love vacation as much as we do. But there are ways to keep a blockage from slowing down your trip.

Shifting hormones can make hair go haywire. Experts say there are ways to manage it.

Moisturizers, serums and other items degrade over time. Here’s how to know when it’s time to stop using them.

If your hair is thinning during particularly tense times, experts have thoughts on what might be going on.

Experts have some theories.

Hormones play a major role, but there are other factors too. Here’s what can help.

The ideal lathering schedule varies from person to person, experts say. Here’s how to tell what may work for you.

Many people want to avoid taking medications. Experts weigh in on what else works.

The unique texture of the tongue’s surface makes it a haven for bacteria. Here’s whether (and how) you should manage it.

And what are they, anyway?

Sweating, stomach pain, headaches — experts explain what happens physiologically, and what that may mean for your health.

Here’s what experts do (and don’t) know about this perplexing condition.

Joint pain, stiffness and swelling aren’t always inevitable results of aging, experts say. Here’s what you can do to reduce your risk.

Concerns about soy foods like tofu have been raised in the past. Here’s what the research and experts say.

Here’s what experts say about what naps can (and can’t) do for your health.

The quiet hours can bring a lot of internal chatter. Here’s how to deal.

Many health conditions, ranging from hay fever to the common cold, can leave us feeling drained. Here’s how to tell what’s causing your fatigue.

Here’s what the experts want you to know.

Some supplements have been shown to modestly lower cholesterol, but cardiologists say they’re no match for statins.

Seasonal allergies, pet dander, temperature changes and sinus infections are just a few potential triggers for this common problem. Here’s what experts say can help.

Sometimes your gut seems to have a mind of its own — and in a way it does.

A recent report found high concentrations of cadmium and lead in dark chocolate. There’s no reason to panic, experts say, but it’s worth a closer look.

New research shows that the UV light in nail lamps could be harmful to your health, but you may not need to cancel your next appointment.

Sleep specialists have a few concerns about this combo.

Some people experience pain flares from healed injuries or chronic conditions when it’s cold or raining. Are the two actually connected?

Your gut is adaptable, experts say, but there are a few facts you should keep in mind.

In Prince Harry’s new memoir, he describes a moment when Meghan Markle borrowed some lip gloss from Kate. Experts weigh in on whether that’s hygienic.

From hot toddies to chicken soup, there are a few important things to keep in mind, experts say.

We spoke to exercise experts to find the ideal regimen.

Research has found that sleep quality does indeed get a little rusty as you grow older, but it’s not a fate you have to live with, experts say.

Some say that consuming a meat-heavy meal can cause people to excessively perspire. But is this idea based on fact or fiction?

Dangling nose hairs, spiky ear hairs — what gives?

If you live in certain parts of the country, you’ll need a lot more than sunlight to maintain adequate levels this season. Here’s what the experts recommend.

If you have mild symptoms, a short, low-intensity workout may be fine. But experts say there are important things to consider.

A gastroenterologist explains how to manage symptoms like bloating, gas and heartburn during the biggest food holiday of the year.

And are they better for you than regular sugar?

Yes, but you have to pick the right routine.

It’s a hotly debated question in dentistry.

Runner’s gut — which can include cramping, nausea and a sudden urge to “go” — can plague many runners during intense exercise. Here’s why, and how to avoid it.

The brightly colored powdered green tea has become popular among health-conscious consumers. Does it have any nutritional benefits?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, is an extreme and often debilitating form of PMS that can be tricky to manage. Here’s what treatments work.

Researchers are just beginning to understand the cognitive dysfunction that some people experience with Covid-19 and a range of other health issues.

If you are considering the procedure, but are worried about its permanence, here is what experts want you to know.

The research is sparse, experts say, but there are some hints about how it could soothe you to sleep.

Clinicians and researchers offer advice on how to tell the difference, and what to do about both.

And if so, are they more harmful than other headphone styles?

And how does the risk compare with inhaling smoke from cigarettes?

Here’s what we know about this essential vitamin’s effects on well-being.

There are many possible reasons you might wake up in a pool of perspiration. Here’s how to tell when it should be cause for concern.