Blooms The Chemist Insider: Health At Home Issue – Spring 2021

health at home SPRING EDITION 2021

IMMUNE HEALTH: WHICH VITAMINS CAN HELP SLEEP: COULD IT BE MORE THAN A BAD NIGHT? AT HOME FIRST AID: ARE YOU PREPARED?

Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. ASK YOUR PHARMACIST—THEY MUST DECIDE IF THIS PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR YOU.

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. THIS MEDICINE MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. INCORRECT USE COULD BE HARMFUL. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

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Health At Home CAN YOU BELIEVE 2021 IS ALMOST OVER? WE CAN’T EITHER. AS 2021 NEARS ITS END, THERE IS NO BETTER TIME TO CHECK-IN AND REFOCUS ON YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING. Every person should feel empowered to take their health into their own hands. By actioning quality advice from our health care professionals and learning to be self-responsible for our health, we can all work towards a healthier, happier world.

Whether you’re still visiting your local Blooms The Chemist, or you’re currently staying home, we’re here to support your best health. We hope you enjoy the Health At Home collection of product information and tips to keep you in control of your health.

Disclaimer: All material included in Health At Home is provided as general information and is not intended, nor may it be construed, as medical advice or instruction. Information and opinions expressed are believed to be correct and accurate to the best knowledge and judgement of the authors. Readers should consult their appropriately qualified health care professional prior to taking any action or inaction in relation to the content contained herein.

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The Immune System: Our Innate Healer THE HUMAN BODY IS TRULY SPECTACULAR. WE ARE ALL BORN WITH AN INNATE IMMUNE SYSTEM, WHICH IS THE FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE AGAINST INFECTIOUS ORGANISMS THAT CAN CAUSE DISEASE OR ILLNESS. UNDERSTANDING THIS POWERFUL SYSTEM AND HOW YOU CAN HELP IT WORK TO ITS FULL CAPABILITIES IS ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAIN LIFELONG HEALTH.

HOW DOES YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WORK? The immune system is made up of a complex and pervasive web of cells, chemicals, tissues, and organs. The purpose of our immune system is to prevent or limit infection. The immune system identifies the difference between normal, healthy cells and unhealthy cells by recognising a variety of "danger” cues.1 When these signals are recognised, the body produces an immune response to help the body fight the invasion.

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Our immune systems constantly evolve throughout our lives – this is called acquired or adaptive immunity. When your immune system is exposed to a new germ for the first time, it responds by trying to fight it off, which is why you may become sick. The immune cells will remember the invader and be better equipped to fight it off should it return.

Overactivity of the immune system is related to disorders such as allergies and autoimmune disease, whereas an underactive immune system or immunodeficiency, can increase the risk of infection.

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM?

Exercise Physical activity is one of the main components to healthy living. Regular physical activity can strengthen your immune system and help your body fight off infections and viruses.

Depending on your age and fitness levels you can try medium-high impact workouts like running and weight-lifting or low impact like walking, biking, yoga or swimming.

Diet What we eat affects every one of our systems. Consuming a diet rich in whole foods, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and seafood can help to promote a healthy immune function. Vitamins and minerals play a large role – which is why it is important to check whether you are deficient in any essential nutrients like vitamin D, zinc, and vitamin C.

Sleep Not only does regular quality sleep improve your brain function, concentration, and memory, it also improves the effectiveness of your immune system. The National Sleep Foundation advises that healthy adults require between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.2

Inner Health Plus Double Strength aids in the maintenance of good gut bacteria and supporting gastrointestinal health and digestive function. It also assists your general health and wellbeing and supports healthy immunity.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. DO NOT USE IF CAP &/OR BOTTLE SEALS ARE MISSING OR BROKEN. NO ADDED ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURS OR PRESERVATIVES.

Stress Reduction Chronic stress can lower your immune system response and make you more susceptible to illness and viruses. Decreasing stress through relaxing activities, meditation and even learning to say no to social invitations may help reduce stress and balance cortisol production to ensure your immune system has the chance to function well.

Supplements While a healthy diet, exercise, sleep and stress reduction are your first go-to options, there are many supplements available which may aid with your immune health.

If you’re needing some extra immune support, speak with your GP or local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist about immune health supplements and lifestyle changes you can incorporate.

Immune health affects us in so many ways and is essential in defending against disease-causing microorganisms.

https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/immune-system-overview

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https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleepdo-we-really-need 2

Inner Health Restore-Biotic is a specialised course to help maintain good gut bacteria during antibiotics and restore healthy gut bacteria after you finish your course of antibiotics. Restore-Biotic capsules can be a good option to support a healthy immune response to break the cycle of sickness.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. DO NOT USE IF CAP &/OR BOTTLE SEALS ARE MISSING OR BROKEN. NO ADDED ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURS OR PRESERVATIVES.

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Living With Seasonal Allergies

Telfast 60mg can provide fast,* non drowsy relief of the symptoms of hayfever and year round allergies.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. DO NOT USE IN CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. *FAST INDICATES PRODUCT WORKS IN ONE HOUR.

ARE YOU AMONG THE 4.6 MILLION AUSTRALIANS WHO ARE AFFECTED BY HAY FEVER? WITH ALMOST 20% OF THE AUSTRALIAN POPULATION NOW EXPERIENCING ALLERGIC RHINITIS, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.1 LEARNING TO MANAGE YOUR ALLERGIES CAN HELP YOU GET BACK TO MAKING THE MOST OF AUSTRALIA’S BEAUTIFUL OUTDOORS, BUSHWALKS AND GARDENS.

What is an allergy?

Every immune system is unique as many factors are at play such as seasons, age, and genetic predisposition. For some, allergies will occur when their immune system reacts to particular substances (allergens), and for others these same allergens are completely harmless. When it comes to hay fever, some of the most common reactions are sneezing, runny, or itchy nose, throat or eyes, nasal congestion and headaches.

What is an antihistamine and how can they help?

There is a range of different medications available to treat allergies, and antihistamines are often the first go-to. When your body responds to an allergen it makes a chemical called histamine, which is what is responsible for the symptoms you may be experiencing. Antihistamines are designed to reduce or block histamines, and therefore help to stop allergy symptoms.

What is a decongestant and how does it work?

The purpose of decongestants is to reduce the fluid in the lining of the nose and relieve swollen nasal passages and congestion. Some medicines combine both an antihistamine and decongestant.

In addition to your medication options, avoiding or minimising exposure to allergens that you know will trigger a reaction is also an essential part of your allergy management plan. Shop the range of allergy and hay fever relief via our online store or visit your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist for further advice on managing your symptoms.

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Desonex hayfever and allergy tablets helps to provide fast multi-symptom relief of nine allergy symptoms including nasal congestion and itchy palate. Try Desonex tablets together^ with Nasonex Allergy Nasal Spray, for powerful dual action relief. Desonex provides fast, 24hour allergy relief, while Nasonex Allergy provides long lasting treatment and prevention.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. *NEW BRAND TO BAYER, FORMERLY KNOWN AS AERIUS ALLERGY TABLETS. ^WHEN MONOTHERAPY DOES NOT PROVIDE SUFFICIENT RELIEF FROM ALLERGIC RHINITIS SYMPTOMS. https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/ Health_Aged_Care_and_Sport/Allergiesandanaphylaxis/Report/ section?id=committees%2Freportrep%2F024422%2F72559 1

At Home First Aid BEING PREPARED IS IMPORTANT ACROSS MANY AREAS OF LIFE, AND THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT WHEN IT COMES TO A MEDICAL EMERGENCY BEING PREPARED IS ESSENTIAL. KEEPING AN ORGANISED AND WELL-STOCKED FIRST AID KIT AT HOME CAN GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND KNOWING YOU ARE READY SHOULD AN ACCIDENT HAPPEN.

Depending on the activities you are involved in you may need to customise your first aid kit to suit your lifestyle or family situation. For example, having children, owning a boat, going camping or having known medical conditions would all require different items.

It’s important to know how to use the items in your first aid kit before potentially needing to use them. Your local Blooms The Chemist can help you if you are unsure how to use any products you have purchased. Remember to always keep your first aid kit in the same spot and replace items as soon as possible after they are used.

Adhesive bandages, sticking plasters and items to promote wound healing are often the most regularly used items in a first aid kit, and the items many forget to replace after using!

There are so many small accidents that result in minor cuts and wounds, and being prepared, treating the wound and

protecting it is key to minimising chance of infection. Your local Blooms The Chemist and online range has you covered for first aid basics.

Elastoplast Flexible Fabric plasters are water-repellent and help to protect against dirt and bacteria. They are breathable and are recommended for optimal wound healing.

Elastoplast Wound Spray is an easy to use spray for the cleansing of minor and acute wounds. It is an effective and gentle way to help support the wound healing process.

Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment provides up to 2x faster wound healing (compared to an untreated wound) and reduces the risk of scarring.

Shop the range of first aid essentials online and in-store at your local Blooms The Chemist.

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Could It Be Sleep Apnoea?

SLEEP IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS WE DO AS HUMANS. WHEN WE SLEEP OUR BODY AND MIND HAVE THE CHANCE TO RECOVER, REPAIR AND WAKE REFRESHED. WHEN WE HAVE POOR QUALITY SLEEP IT AFFECTS OUR BRAIN FUNCTION, INHIBITING CONCENTRATION, MEMORY PROCESSING AND THE ABILITY TO THINK CLEARLY. HAS YOUR POOR SLEEP BECOME CHRONIC? IT MAY BE TIME TO CHECK IF A SLEEP DISORDER IS AT PLAY.

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Often people are shocked to receive a sleep apnoea diagnosis. While this is a serious condition, there is no need to be concerned – determining if you have sleep apnoea is an opportunity for a new lease on life and may lead to a complete turnaround in day-to-day health and wellbeing.

While sleep apnoea signs and symptoms are incredibly varied, some of the common patient complaints that have resulted in an underlying diagnosis of sleep apnoea include: • Daytime sleepiness and excessive fatigue • Snoring/holding your breath for an extended period during sleep • Broken sleep and waking up numerous times during the night • Irritability, mood changes, poor memory and concentration • Teeth grinding and headaches

HOW DOES A SLEEP APNOEA TEST WORK? Sleep apnoea can be diagnosed with an overnight at-home sleep test. A Blooms The Chemist team member trained in sleep health can show you how to operate the testing device in the comfort of your own home.

The BMC G3 CPAP WIFI Module Auto Pressure Machine with Humidifier and Integrated Heated Tubing is the new generation of CPAP Machine with advanced features, superior quality and is a cost-effective option for treating sleep apnea.

The device incorporates several auto-adjusting advanced features which includes the Auto Humidity Control, Auto Ramp, Multi-stage noise reduction technology, Intelligent Pressure Adjusting Technology. It will also show information such as compliance hours, average pressure, AHI, and leak rate, and offers a web-based app to allow remote access to your sleep therapy on your smartphone if required.

ALWAYS READ THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, WORSEN OR CHANGE UNEXPECTEDLY TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. Blooms The Chemist have trained professionals who can guide you each step of the way and provide expert advice, machine configuration and overnight sleep apnoea testing. With up to 80% of sleep apnoea cases going undiagnosed, it is important to explore this option if you have chronic sleep issues to ensure you have access to treatment options and the chance to improve quality of life.

1 The machine measures exactly what happens while you sleep.

2 The data is sent to an independent sleep and respiratory physician who analyses your results and provides a comprehensive report

3 You attend a one-on-one consultation at your local Blooms The Chemist where your results are shared

4 You receive a recommendation on the best treatment plan for your needs should you require it.

HOW IS SLEEP APNOEA TREATED? Once a patient has been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the recommended treatment. CPAP is recognised as the gold standard of obstructive sleep apnoea treatment. There are many different brands of CPAP equipment available on the market. At Blooms The Chemist we are pleased to offer our patients access to the market leading brands.

Adjusting to CPAP therapy can take time and that’s why we offer a four-week CPAP therapy trial to ensure you are matched with the best CPAP machine and mask for you. By tailoring therapy (changing mask or machine settings) we help take the guessing game out of choosing which is best for you.

You are never alone, our Blooms The Chemist team is always available to help patients adapt to continued long-term use of CPAP therapy.

Visit your local Blooms The Chemist for more information or take the free online sleep quiz bloomsthechemist.com.au/sleep-quiz

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The Power Of Vitamins WONDERING ABOUT SOME OF THE MOST COMMONLY USED VITAMINS AND HOW THEY MAY SUPPORT YOUR HEALTH AND GENERAL WELLBEING? IN THIS VITAMIN 101 WE EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRIENTS IN HELPING MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH. The best way to maintain your vitamin and mineral levels is to eat a healthy, balanced diet, however vitamins offer support when you are unable to meet the required amounts through your diet. Speak with your GP or Pharmacist if you're concerned you may not be eating well enough and follow their advice on the action you can take.

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GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

MENTAL & COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Vitamin D aids in healthy bone growth and development.

When you are low in vitamin D you may experience symptoms such as a change in muscle function.

Eating a diet rich in essential fatty acids is important to support your general health and wellbeing. Essential fatty acids can be found in many foods such as fatty fish, nuts and seeds.

Blackmores Vitamin D3 1000IU assists in healthy bone development by helping prevent dietary vitamin D deficiency, as well as supporting immune system health and muscle health in a convenient one a day dose.

Blackmores Fish Oil Mini Caps Odourless is a high-quality concentrated fish oil with 330mg of omega-3 per capsule to maintain heart, skin, eye and brain health.

WARNING: VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS SHOULD NOT REPLACE A BALANCED DIET.

Magnesium is a mineral that is important for a variety of processes in the body.1 Magnesium is essential for helping maintain bone health and assists in the development of healthy teeth.

Blackmores MagMin® provides an easy to absorb and bioavailable source of magnesium, and is suitable for use during pregnancy and lactation.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

NERVOUS SYSTEM FUNCTION Stress affects all systems of the body and can therefore affect our health in numerous ways.3 A healthy stress response in the body can support your energy levels, general health and wellbeing, and nervous system function.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. *VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS SHOULD NOT REPLACE A BALANCED DIET.

Blackmores Executive B Stress Formula is specifically formulated with a combination of ingredients which support healthy stress response in the body. It contains B vitamins and magnesium.

IMMUNE HEALTH Our bodies’ immune response and effectiveness in fending off colds and infections relies on the presence of many micronutrients. Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient that your body does not make on its own and plays a crucial role in supporting immune system function. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system.2 Blackmores Bio C® 1000 gives you a boost of vitamin C to help reduce the severity and duration of common cold symptoms and support immune system health. It is a high potency formula that comes in a convenient one-a-day tablet.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. *VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS SHOULD NOT REPLACE A BALANCED DIET.

It’s important to select a variety of healthy foods which offer different vitamins and minerals that can support your body’s healthy development and overall wellness.

Speak to your healthcare professional about whether supplements may be right for you.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-Consumer/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707683/ 3 https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body 1 2

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Take Control

Measuring Your Blood Pressure At Home YOU MAY HAVE BEEN ADVISED BY YOUR GP TO TAKE YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE REGULARLY. YOUR LOCAL BLOOMS THE CHEMIST CAN HELP YOU MEASURE YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE WITH A FREE, QUICK AND EASY TEST. IF YOU’RE UNABLE TO GET TO YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY, YOU MAY WISH TO CONSIDER INVESTING IN AN AT-HOME BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR.

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What Is Blood Pressure?

When the heart pumps blood through the arteries, the blood puts pressure on the artery walls. Blood pressure is the measurement of the pressure of the blood in the artery.

Blood pressure that is high over a long time can contribute to a range of serious health issues.

Taking Your Blood Pressure At Home Blood pressure should be taken when you are at rest. It is best to find a comfortable spot that is free from any distractions where you can sit and relax for five minutes before you take a reading. The Heart Foundation recommendation is to record your blood pressure at least twice each time, one minute apart, and to take measurements under the same conditions and same time each day where possible. If you’ve been advised to take standing blood pressure readings, you should wait at least two minutes between readings.

To use a blood pressure monitor, you will fit an adjustable cuff around your upper arm (roughly at heart level); the cuff will inflate and stop the blood flow through the artery. As the cuff deflates, blood begins to flow again, and the machine measures the vibration in the arterial wall (systolic pressure).

Diastolic pressure will be measured once the blood flow is continuous and no longer creating a vibration against the arterial wall. Most blood pressure monitors will give a reading of both systolic and diastolic pressure.

The Heart Sure BP100 Upper-Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is easy to use with its simple one-touch operation. It features last reading memory and displays blood pressure values and pulse rate.

Blood pressure varies throughout the day depending on things like your activities, body position, emotions, and exercise levels. By checking these levels at home, you can see how lifestyle changes are affecting your blood pressure and record these changes if required.

Warnings: Before use always read the label and follow all manufacturer’s instructions and directions. If you are unsure about whether this product is right for you, we invite you to contact a member of your local Blooms The Chemist team for expert advice and health support. Incorrect use could be harmful.

ALWAYS READ THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE.

Do you have high blood pressure?

The Omron HEM7121 Standard Upper-Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is easy to use, features 30 reading memory and also irregular heartbeat, hypertension and body movement indicators.

Your local Blooms the Chemist Pharmacist can speak with you about your lifestyle and blood pressure history. Our range of at home blood pressure kits are available to make monitoring your levels simple. Each device comes with its own set of instructions to help you learn to use your specific monitor.

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Skincare Essentials

Do you have a daily skincare routine?

As the largest organ in our body, skin plays a huge role in our health.

Our skin is a barrier to the outside world and assists with temperature regulation, germ defence and vitamin production. While much of the focus on skin in our society is based on aesthetics, protecting our skin is much more than a beauty statement.

Keeping a daily skin care routine can help this organ do its job more effectively for longer. Developing your skincare routine in conjunction with your oral care and hair routines is a great way to practice self-care and provides a structure and time to look forward to each day.

Healthy skin is a life-long process, and like many health concerns, prevention is key. Establishing a routine doesn’t need to be complicated or time consuming. A few basics are all you need to feel good in the skin you're in.

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Cetaphil® Daily Exfoliating Cleanser contains micro-fine beads that gently exfoliate the skin. Non-irritating, dermatologically tested and designed for daily use, this cleanser is perfect for your everyday skincare routine.

Cetaphil® Hydrating Eye CreamSerum deeply hydrates delicate skin around the eyes. This hypoallergenic moisturising cream contains hyaluronic acid and is dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested.

Cetaphil® Daily Facial Moisturiser makes a great everyday skincare product. Its non-greasy formula means it's perfect for all skin types, and the light-weight formulation with UVA and UVB filters is easy to apply and re-apply whenever you're feeling a little dry. With its handy pump pack its easy to keep your face beautifully nourished and hydrated.

Cetaphil® Face Rich Night Cream is a moisturising cream suitable for normal to very dry skin, Cetaphil® Rich Night Cream is formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to help maintain hydration. It's dermatologically tested and noncomedogenic to provide gentle yet effective moisturising, ideal for night time skincare routines.

Health Services Did you know as part of our holistic approach to health we offer a range of in-store Health Services including flu vaccinations and our six key Health Checks?

Ask your local Blooms The Chemist team for more information about our range of Health Services, or visit bloomsthechemist.com.au/health-services To find your local Blooms The Chemist head to bloomsthechemist.com/store-finder

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