What's Hiding Under Your Nails

There’s an itsy-bitsy, teeny-tiny part of your body that you might be neglecting when it comes to keeping clean. And here’s the thing: this spot is like a disco party for grime, germs, and bacteria. We’re talking about the areas under your nails, and the longer your nails are, the more potential there is for gunk to take up residence.

We use our hands and nails for practically everything. For picking things up off the ground and elsewhere, scratching, holding hands with others, and wiping you know what. This is not an exhaustive list.

“Throughout the day, we use our nails for many mechanical purposes and these actions can accelerate the accumulation of dirt, bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms underneath the [the free edge of our nails that grows outward],” explains Dr. Eric Rudnick, a board-certified dermatologist and dermapathologist based in Boca Raton, Florida. And not to really gross you out or anything, but Dr. Rudnick tells us he looks at nails underneath a microscope regularly, and things get pretty gnarly under there. In fact, he says that anecdotally, up to 90% of these nail specimens have numerous colonies of bacteria and yeast. Blech! Although not really surprising when you think about it.

Remember that part where we reminded you that nails are used for basically everything? Well, the issue of grimy fingernails is a big deal for precisely that reason. We also use our hands to prepare and eat food, and to scratch or touch our skin – sometimes scabs or open woods. Some of us even have the habit of biting our nails or (sometimes unconsciously) putting them in or near our mouth, ears, and nose. In other words, we tend to give this grime a free and welcomed entrance directly into our body.

The CDC also stresses how dirty this area can get, noting that fingernails can even contribute to the spread of some infections. What’s worse for those of us who love a lengthy talon, they point out that “longer fingernails can harbor more dirt and bacteria than short nails, thus potentially contributing to the spread of infection.”

The Best Hygiene Regimen for Keeping Nails Clean

No, we’re not saying you absolutely have to cut your nails down to the quick. But we are telling you that you might wanna rethink your current nail cleaning regimen.

“Proper hand hygiene is more important than ever,” says celebrity manicurist Mazz Hanna. “[Whether long or short], you should thoroughly clean under your nails every single time you wash your hands. At least once a day, use a brush with antibacterial soap to gently scrub under fingernails. You can use a new soft toothbrush or a soft brush you can get at any beauty supply store or Amazon.”

While you’re at it, now’s a good time to try to curb that mindless nail-chewing habit and to be more aware of exactly where you’re putting your fingers. Hanna adds that it’s important to avoid picking at your cuticles. Oh, and get yourself some gloves for any dirty jobs. That includes cleaning and scrubbing surfaces in your home, washing the dishes, and working in the garden.

Now that you know just how grody your nails can get, and what to do about it, may you never feel grossed out by the sight or thought of your own hands again. Source

A Little UpKept Reminder: The Waitlist Is Here!

A little reminder from UpKept 

UpKept appointments are one-on-one, which means there are a limited number of appointments available each week. With the schedule filling up quickly, planning ahead is the best way to secure your preferred day and time!

Of course, schedules change and appointments do open up from time to time. That’s where the UpKept waitlist comes in. 

If your preferred day or time isn’t available, join the waitlist! When an opening becomes available that matches your request, you’ll have the opportunity to book it.

Already know you like to keep your hands and feet on a regular schedule? Booking your next few appointments in advance is highly recommended. 

Because UpKept is a one-on-one experience, last-minute openings aren’t always available—but that also means every appointment is dedicated entirely to you.

Book ahead when possible.
Join the waitlist when needed.
Keep your appointments on schedule. 

536 Main Street

Vacaville, CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

Tel: 707.208.7646

How to Perfectly Paint a Nail’s Cuticle Area

 

This is a video tutorial on how to perfectly paint a nail, we dig deep into the variables. What shape brush does your nail polish have and how does that affect how you paint the base shape of your nail. We talk about round and square nail bases and the best techniques for painting them with different shaped brushes.

Fall Nail Care & Wellness: Embrace the Season's Transition

The dreaded season change is coming quicker than we may all want it. This does not mean your beauty routine needs to change entirely, you just may need to adjust a few steps to better pamper yourself. As the leaves start to turn and the air grows cooler, fall not only signifies a change in the scenery but also heralds a transition in our self-care routines. This season, give your nails the care they deserve while focusing on holistic wellness.

Here is a guide for you on tips for nurturing your nails and your well-being this autumn;

1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration!

Fall often brings drier air, which can be harsh on your skin and nails. Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated with nourishing oils. Regular moisturizing prevents brittleness and breakage, ensuring your nails stay strong and healthy. Staying hydrated from the inside out is always important as well! Make sure you are getting your recommended daily water intact, this will benefit not only your body but absolutely your nails.

2. Embrace Fall Colors

The shades of fall are rich and warm. Think deep reds, burnt oranges, moody purples, and earthy browns. These hues not only match the season but also give your nails a sophisticated look. Neutral tones are also very popular in the fall as they are classic and go with everything.

3. Protect Against the Chill

Gloves aren't just for winter. The chill of fall can begin to affect your hands and nails. Wearing gloves protects your hands from the cold, preventing dryness and preserving your manicure.

4. Regular Manicures and Pedicures

Even though your feet might be hidden away in boots, don't neglect them. Regular mani-pedis not only keep your nails in top condition but also provide an opportunity to relax and pamper yourself.

5. Mindful Moments

Fall is a season of reflection. As you care for your nails, take moments to breathe deeply, meditate, or simply enjoy the sensations of your nail care routine. This mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve overall wellness.

6. Natural Nail Boosters

Incorporate foods rich in biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. These boost nail health from the inside, promoting growth and strength. Think eggs, fish, nuts, and seeds.

7. Limit Direct Heat

As the temperature drops, we often find comfort in hot showers and baths. However, excessive hot water can weaken your nails. Opt for lukewarm water and always moisturize after.

8. Wellness from Within

Remember that nail health is a reflection of overall health. Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure you're getting all the essential vitamins and minerals. When your body is nourished, it shows in your nails.

Embracing the beauty and tranquility of fall can be a fulfilling experience, especially when you prioritize self-care. Your nails are a canvas, ready to reflect the beauty of the season. With the right care and a touch of wellness, you can ensure they remain a testament to your health and style throughout the autumn months. Source

How to Stop Picking Your Nails and Fingers

 

Nail picking, also known as onychotillomania, is the urge to pull at or pick the nails and surrounding skin. The condition is similar to the more commonly known onychophagia, which is when someone bites their nails and skin. Nail picking is often related to an underlying mental health condition. Treatment involves identifying triggers, therapy, and treating the underlying mental health condition.

Learning to stop picking cuticles, nails, and the surrounding skin can be difficult. It is often thought of as a dermatological concern when it is both that and a mental health concern.

Below are ways that can help someone stop picking their nails;

Identify Triggers

Identifying what triggers someone to pick their nails, cuticles, or surrounding skin can help resolve the issue. Some triggers will be external sources, such as an activity or environmental concern that causes the desire to pick. Other triggers are internal, a thought, feeling, or sensory change that creates the need to pick.

Determining the triggers can help create awareness and teach the person to avoid those situations or learn to identify what is happening to begin the process of stopping. Some people may find it helpful to write in a journal or keep notes to determine what is leading up to the nail picking.

Here are a few examples of things you can do to prevent yourself from picking your nails or your skin around your nails; 

Cover With Band-Aids

An occlusive cover like a Band-Aid or other adhesive dressing will provide a physical barrier and a reminder to stop picking.

 Some people may not like the appearance of wearing Band-Aids over their fingers, so try clear adhesive bandages found at pharmacies.

Apply Super Glue

Cyanoacrylate adhesive, also known as Super Glue, is applied one or two times per week over the nails, cuticles, and skin to provide a temporary barrier. It acts as a reminder not to pick. One case report found cyanoacrylate adhesive applications stopped picking within three to six months.

Join a Support Group

Learning to stop picking your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin is a process that does not happen overnight. Joining a support group with other people who pick or have similar habits can offer a reassuring environment where advice and previous experiences can be shared. Healthcare providers and social workers can help find support groups.

What to Do Instead of Picking Your Nails

During the process of learning how to stop picking your nails, it can be helpful to find replacement behaviors. A replacement behavior is something that is done in place of picking. It can be squeezing a stress ball, sitting on your hands, or making a fist.

Why is it important to do something instead of picking your nails or skin? Infection is one of the risks when someone picks their nails or skin. The skin and nails form a barrier between the outside world and the inside of the body. When that is compromised with picking, an infection can develop. To avoid an infection, clean any picked areas and try not to touch them. If you develop signs of an infection, contact a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

In conclusion... Onychotillomania, or the urge to pick at the nails and surrounding skin, is a behavior of an underlying mental health condition. There are several treatment options such as therapy, trigger identification, and medication. Contact a healthcare provider for an evaluation and treatment for nail picking. Source

The History of the French Manicure

 

Why is it called a French Manicure? Learn more about the history of this iconic look.

Ever found yourself asking why is it called a French manicure? Like French fries, French toast, and French dressing, a French manicure seems like such a distinctly American trend, even as its name suggests otherwise.

French manicures — which are a popular choice for both fingers and toes — are one of the most common requests at nail spas and salons. This classic option is ideal for those who are interested in a professional yet distinguishing look, and are a mainstay for weddings and other special events since the basic white and pinkish nude pairing goes with anything (and especially a white wedding dress).

If you’ve ever wondered about the French manicure origin, however, you’re not alone. Keep reading for a quick lesson into the history of French manicure looks.

History of the French Manicure

It may be called the French manicure, but this trend actually has its roots in 1970s Hollywood. Jeff Pink, founder of the ubiquitous nail polish company Orly, is credited with coining the name in 1978, though it was cosmetics kingpin Max Factor who is believed to have invented the look itself all the way back in the 1930s.

The “French” connection here is due to Factor’s claim that he first created the manicure for fashion forward women in Paris. It was Pink however who created he first French manicure kit and took the look mainstream. Pink also said that it was his practice of painting the trend on Parisian women’s nails that led to the term.

Disagreements over the name’s true origin aside, it wasn’t long before the French manicure took over in Hollywood — and eventually across the U.S., and then the world. Interestingly, France itself borrowed the name when they adopted the look, calling it la French manicure.

What Are French Tips?

Now that we know where the name comes from, what are French tips actually, and how do you achieve this classic look?

French tips refer to the white polish on the tips of the nails, above the base of the nail which is traditionally painted in a pinkish nude tone. The look is meant to provide a more bold replication of nails’ natural colors, though today you’ll see French manicures in a wide range of shades that certainly look anything but natural.

To achieve a picture perfect French manicure, most manicurists rely on French tip guides in order to achieve as clean of a line as possible between the base of the nail and the tip. After applying a base coat, the guides are applied and then white is painted on the tips and a pale shade on the base, followed by a top coat. And just like that, a stunning and simple French manicure is complete.

Putting a modern twist on a French manicure is a great way to create some seriously showstopping nails. Here are some ideas on how to do it.

• After painting on the French manicure and before applying top coat, paint glitter polish over nail tips.
• Opt for black tips instead of white.
• Use an iridescent sheer on the base of the nail instead of a standard sheer.
• Go bold and pick complementary colors for base and tip, such as yellow and purple or blue and orange. 

Today we see a fresh take on this look everywhere. 

Article Source

Why Regular Manicures and Pedicures Should Be Part of Your Self-Care

 

Self-care is a term we hear a lot, but what does it actually mean? Self-care means taking the time to do things that support your physical and mental health. How can taking care of your hands and feet be good self-care?

If you enjoy giving yourself manicures and pedicures, then you should by all means do them yourself. However, for many of us, trying to make our fingernails and toenails look nice, caring for our cuticles, and smoothing out rough skin isn’t an enjoyable task. We may think of manicures and pedicures as an unnecessary luxury, but in reality, caring for ourselves in small ways like these pays big dividends in our physical and emotional health. Having a manicure and pedicure gives you an opportunity to care for yourself, relax, and take a break from everyday stress.

Having well-groomed nails is, for many of us, a reflection of our personal grooming standards. They are part of how we present ourselves to the world. The color, shape, or artistry involved in how our nails look are all part of our image and have an influence on how others see us.

A manicure is not only an aesthetic service but also a hygienic one. Cleaning your fingernails thoroughly prevents the growth of bacteria. Also, caring for your cuticles can prevent infection. Regular manicures and pedicures reduce the chances of your nails developing fungi and other infections. The exfoliation involved also removes dead skin cells and encourages new cell growth, resulting in stronger and healthier nails over time.

Pedicures do more than make your toenails look pretty! The skin on the balls of the foot and the heels can be rough and callused. Calluses are the result of repetitive pressure or friction. Ill-fitting footwear, going barefoot, or simply walking for long periods of time causes calluses to develop on your feet. These have the potential to become painful, but they can be buffed off or scrubbed away by your nail technician if treated early in their development. Exfoliating, buffing, and moisturizing the feet on a regular basis helps remove dry, hardened skin, and prevent cracks that can bleed or lead to infection.

In the summer, a pedicure is almost a necessity! Sandals, flip-flops, and slides leave our toenails open to full display. Cutting your toenails improperly can lead to the ingrowth of the nail into the skin, necessitating a trip to a podiatrist for treatment. Regular pedicures help keep the toenails short and hygienic. In addition, having well-groomed feet means you can slip on any of these shoes and go about your business with confidence.

Manicures and pedicures also indicate that you prioritize yourself and are investing in your own self-care. Especially if you’ve been dealing with high levels of stress, taking the time to pamper yourself with a manicure and pedicure can significantly lower your stress levels! The massage, relaxing experience, and pampering will help reduce tension and help you relax, boosting your mental health. Source