Zoya Nail Polish Is The Best - UpKept Nail Studio

 

Megan talks as to why Zoya nail polish is not only a great polish but also free of many harsh and dangerous chemicals.  This is the best for healthy nails.  

Check us out at https://stayupkept.com

Top 6 Reasons Why Chin Waxing is Highly Recommended

Most women begin dealing with facial hair from puberty. Facial hair is considered to be hereditary and hormonal. If your mother has facial hair, there is a high chance you’ll have it as well. Chin hair in women can be a common occurrence. In the US alone, 20 million women remove chin hair every week. The hereditary factor also implies that some of us don’t have to worry about it until one day when hormones are triggered and hair starts appearing. Sometimes, they can emerge with no explanation. What are our options? Can chin waxing help? Article Source

Here are some top reasons why chin waxing is highly recommended.

    1. No traces left

Chin waxing is excellent when done correctly. It removes hair from the root, leaving your skin smooth and hair-free. The procedure doesn’t cause much discomfort, either. In fact, it leaves no traces behind apart from minor redness that lasts for about one hour or so after the treatment.

    2. Long-term results

Chin waxing removes all of the hair. You are guaranteed to receive long-lasting smooth skin. Since the hair root is removed, it takes time to reform before appearing on your chin again. When done correctly, it can last for multiple weeks. However, it’s worth noting that this duration depends on your rate of hair growth.

    3. Accuracy

Our experts know how to wax with accuracy. You control where you need waxed and which parts should remain untouched. Unlike shaving, waxing has a high precision, making it ideal for the chin area.

    4. Reduced growth of hair

It’s undisputed that the more you wax your chin, the less hair grows. Ultimately, waxing may damage hair follicles, meaning the hair might stop growing. Although this reduction in hair may take years, it’s better than shaving. Once you begin chin waxing, you’ll notice less hair growing in the area.

    5. Costs less

Chin waxing typically costs less when compared to other alternatives such as laser hair removal.

    6. No stubble

When you shave your chin, hair is cut at the skin surface. It leaves it blunt-edged. As it starts growing, it comes in a stubble form. For a woman, this can be unattractive. Waxing gets rid of the entire hair shaft. As the hair grows back naturally, no stubble forms, unlike in shaving.

What to keep in mind---Chin waxing is convenient and effective. However, it does require follow-up treatments. Book your chin waxing appointment with us today! 

Meet The Big Zodiac Energy Collection by OPI

 

Introducing our Big Zodiac Energy collection for fall 2023. Paint the scene with 12 permanent shades in Nail Lacquer and limited edition shades in Infinite Shine. No crèmes. All effects: shimmers, glitters, pearls, and holographics. Wear your sign alone, make it nail art, or mix and match your big three: sun ☀️ + moon 🌙 + rising ⬆️ sign.

Earth Signs

Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn

These zodiac nail polish shades are as earth-shattering as hue: #Virgoals has a bronze pearl finish that nails perfection (because duh), Taurus-t Me is the MOST loyal mint green shimmer, while Feelin’ Capricorn-y has a shimmery sage green effect that brings the wit.  

Air Signs

Gemini, Aquarius, and Libra

Intellectual, spontaneous, and highly curious, Gemini, Aquarius, and Libra air on the side of shimmer: Feelin’ Libra-ted is a beyond balanced shimmery violet, Gemini and I is a multifaceted soft white shimmer, and Aquarius Renegade ditches the status quo in a pearlescent navy blue.

Water Signs

Scorpios, Cancers, and Pisces

Calling all water signs for being the deeeep, emotional, and sometimes psychic signs of the zodiac: Scorpio Seduction is a mysterious AF cobalt pearl, I Cancer-tainly Shine is a holographic silver full of intuition, and Pisces the Future is a totally psychic light blue pearl. 

Fire Signs

Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Passionate, courageous, and impulsive (in the best ways, obviously), Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, these zodiac nail color shades are for you: Kiss My Aries is a fiery red shimmer that like you, doesn’t hold back, The Leo-nly One is a bold gold pearl that’ll put even more eyes on you, and Big Sagittarius Energy is a burgundy pearl that’s pure fire. 

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How File Your Nails Properly

 

Megan shows the best way to file your nails properly.  Most people do not use proper technique, which can lead to nail damage. 

Latte Nails Are the Fall Mani Trend You Need to Know

First came latte makeup, which exploded on TikTok and has raked in over 220 million views in the past few weeks. Now? Latte nails have followed up to ensure our mani gets a look in, and we’re crushing on the trend hard.

To recap: Latte makeup saw warm brown tones like caramel, tan, cocoa, buff and amber applied across eyes, cheeks, and lips for a delicious cohesive, tonal makeup look that looks just as dreamy in sun-kissed summer weather as it does in a cosy autumn climate. It’s the ultimate neutral transitional aesthetic. And like its makeup counterpart, the jist remains the same when it comes to our nails.

After a summer full of milky manis, we’re some soft adding coffee tones into the mix. “Autumn is the time of year where darker nail shades have their time to shine,” confirms luxury nail artist and educator, Jess White. “I think this autumn we will see a lot of rich brown shades. I can see lots of caramel, toffee, chocolate and cream shades trending. Basically, coffee vibes.”

It’s not just a look; it’s a mood. The “warm and inviting” latte tones “exude a sense of cosiness and sophistication,” White says.

As the weather gets cooler, we’ll see the trend slide down the latte scale toward other warm drinks like hot chocolate, cappuccino, and mocha nails, which will give extra longevity and versatility to the latte nails trend.

Hailey Bieber was early to sign off the viral nail trend, debuting a set of chocolate glazed donut nails heading into fall last year. She was also quick to jump on the latte makeup trend when it took off last month. But we’re expecting to see a few variations, from glazed and glossy to matte and moody.  

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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. 

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How to Find the Best Nail Shape for you

 The world has more nail shapes than we have fingers, but we’re on hand to help you select the right angles for your nails, so you really can enjoy your perfect mani. Before we get started, take a good look at your hands. To flatter those tips, you’ll need to find the best nail shape for your hands by figuring out the shape of your cuticle and nail bed. Simply push back your cuticles with a cuticle stick to look at your true cuticle shape, then get started.  Article Source

Short Fingers

Best nail shape for your hands: Round Nails. This shape elongates your fingers and makes them look slender. Round nails also make wide nail beds appear thinner. Start by filing and following the natural shape of the fingertip. Then, flip your hands and check the symmetry of the curve.

Wide Nail Beds And Long Nails

Best nail shape for your hands: Oval Nails. This runway favorite elongates nails in both width and length. It’s similar to an almond shape but a tad more blunt. File each side of the nail, and slightly curve your file toward the center of the nail to create an egg-like shape.

To Lengthen & Slim Fingers

Best nail shape for your hands: Almond Nails. Slender at the sides and slim at the base, this is an instantly flattering shape. File each side of the nail, and shape the tip by narrowing the free edge to create a peak.

Low Maintenance

Best nail shape for your hands: Square Nails. If you have long, narrow nail beds and like a short length, this is the shape for you. Looking for extra length? Acrylic fans rejoice, long square nails are the perfect canvas for trending shades and nail art. Achieve this shape by filing in a straight line across the free edge.

The Universal Shape

Best nail shape for your hands: Squoval Nails. It looks good on everyone! This universally flattering nail shape looks good on short and long fingers. Part-oval and part-square, this is super easy to maintain on short nails. Start by filing straight across, then round the corners in one long stroke, connecting the free edge together. Flip your hands towards you and adjust as needed.

Short Fingers and Long Nails

Best nail shape for your hands: Stiletto Nails. This is a shape made for long nails (we recommend with acrylics) that ends with a sharp statement point. This is like an almond shape, but more pointed. Find the center of the nail tip, then shape both sides by filing into a slight taper towards the nail tip. Next, begin shaping the tip by narrowing the free edge to create a peak.

For the Acrylic Enthusiasts

Best nail shape for your hands: Ballerina Nails or Coffin Nails. This shape requires salon maintenance. Long, slim, and squared off at the tip, this suits long, slender fingers and angled cuticles. They’re called ballerina nails (or coffin nails) as the tip resembles a pointed shoe. Looking for something with a bit more edge? Try a related shape with coffin nails, this shape is slightly more angled than ballerina nails and is less rounded when it comes to the sides of the nail.

The Influencer   

Best nail shape for your hands: Lipstick Nails. Be a trendsetter! Like your favorite shade, this squared nail style slants diagonally for a seriously unique nail shape.

The Diva

Best nail shape for your hands: Long Square Nails. If you have long, narrow nail beds and prefer a long length or acrylics, this is the shape for you. Trending shades and nail art like an ombre look well on long square nails. Achieve this shape by filing in a straight line across the free edge and parallel to the sidewall. Perfect for filing down into other shapes when wanting to switch up for something different.

Eyebrow Tinting

 

If you're dealing with thin, sparse brows, eyebrow gels and pencils are ace at getting you fuller, more defined arches. However, the results are short-lived, which is why many have turned to eyebrow tinting as an alternative, proclaiming the service as nothing short of life-changing. In 10 to 15 minutes, patchy eyebrows are transformed into something that could challenge even Brooke Shields's iconic set. 

Eyebrow tinting is a treatment that involves applying a gentle dye to your arches for a few minutes to make them a shade or two darker. For sparse brows, in particular, tinting works wonders at grabbing the lighter hairs to result in a fuller, more dramatic shape.  First the tint color is mixed to match the undertones of the client's hair, then it's applied to the brow area, sits for 10 minutes, and then it's removed.

Who It's For

Those who are looking for fuller, darker eyebrows may benefit from dying them. Tinting will color teeny tiny hairs so your brow hair is more noticeable. "The service is especially impactful for blondes and redheads, but brunettes get amazing results too because it picks up all the baby hairs to give a fuller look." "It's really natural-looking so you don't have to use brow-enhancing products as much, if at all."

Is Eyebrow Tint Safe?  Technically, yes, but it really depends on what dye is used. The FDA currently has an Import Alert in effect for eyelash and eyebrow dyes containing coal tar colors, with studies indicating that such products can cause a severe health hazard with the possibility of permanent eye injury, including impaired sight and blindness. "You must use a professional dye. "It's the safest thing to put close to the eyes. ​​Do not use store-bought hair color box kits to tint your brows — these dyes have ammonia in them and can be super dangerous, not only if they get into your eyes, but also if they get on the fragile, sensitive skin around the eye area."

"Coal and tar and other chemicals are not safe around the eye orbital. Anything you put on your eyes goes into your skin." "It's best to be extra safe with anything you put on the eye area. The cleaner, the better." But regardless of where you get your eyebrows dyed, make sure to ask what ingredients the salon uses, get informed, and only go to salons that have very high standards. Article Source

How long does brow tint last?

Your fill-in method will be pretty low-key for a four to six-week lifespan, during which time the tint will naturally fade to your original hue.

Book your appointment with us today for a professional eyebrow tinting to help enhance your natural brow!

ZOYA Defend & Shine System

Using Naked Manicure Defend & Shine System to extend the wear and shine of traditional ZOYA nail Polish and get Gel Like look and Wear. 

 

Why Underarm Waxing Will Change Your Life

It’s summer, and that means that hair removal is front and center on everyone’s minds. Between sugaring our legs and shaving our faces, we’re forever looking for ways to ensure smooth skin all over our bodies—but when it comes to our underarms, waxing is definitely where it’s at. Article Source

We’re here to tell you that underarm waxing is the answer to all of your summertime prayers. Sure, it hurts a little. But you really only have to have your armpits waxed once to become a total believer. We’re not kidding—it’s seriously going to change your life.

Not only are your armpits left totally smooth and hair-free for up to four weeks, you can say a permanent goodbye to the skin irritation, nicks and painful ingrown hairs that often come with shaving such a delicate area. And in the summer, when we practically live in bikinis and sundresses, not having to worry about stubble every damn day is a lifesaver. Plus, think of all the money you’ll save on razors!

Before you run out to your aesthetician, you should do your homework. You want your waxing to last as long as possible, right? So we’re breaking down literally everything you need to know about underarm waxing; prepare to get your smoothest skin yet.

Know before you go 

Don’t just assume your usual waxing place will be able to do your underarms; call to check. You may have to make a separate appointment, or see another aesthetician. Pro tip: scheduling your bikini wax on the same day as your underarms? Not a good move; that’s way too much to deal with in a single sitting. Break your appointments up to minimize your discomfort.

Grow your hair out

We know it seems counter-intuitive to have to grow your armpit hair out only to have it removed, but nobody ever said that waxing was logical. You’ll want the hair to be about 1/4 inch long before your appointment. Anything shorter than that and the wax won’t grip the hair properly; anything longer will cause even more pain when pulled out.

Exfoliate beforehand

Some salons will do this for you, but just in case, make sure you gently exfoliate your armpits before your appointment. This makes sure the area is clean and that the hair follicles are unblocked, making it easier for the wax to grip hair at the root. And did you catch the key word, “gently”? Using a soft cotton washcloth dampened with warm water, rub in small circles for about thirty seconds per armpit. Avoid any harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliators; these can irritate skin, which is exactly what we don’t want.

Keep it clean

It probably goes without saying, but underarms must be completely clean and dry before a wax. This means shower before your appointment and skip deodorant entirely, as it can interfere with the wax. If the thought of going bare is just too much for you, apply baby powder under your arms instead to absorb wetness and odor.

Skip the coffee

Did you know that caffeine heightens your skin’s sensitivity to pain? Crazy but true. Since waxing is, by its very nature, a little painful, avoid drinking coffee or taking any over-the-counter medicine that contains caffeine the day of your appointment.

At your appointment

Though what to expect at your waxing will vary depending on the salon, the basic shape of your appointment is the same: you can expect to have your underarms wiped down and dried before the wax is smoothed on in small sections. Once the wax has set, the skin will be pulled tight and the wax will be pulled away against the direction that the hair grows. Because underarm hair often grows in several directions, it may take a few passes to get the area completely clean—that’s why it’s best to see a professional, rather than trying to do this yourself. 

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH US TODAY

Take care

Immediately following your wax you may experience some discomfort or irritation (and questioning why you listened to us in the first place), but trust us, the redness and swelling goes away quickly. To really speed up your recovery, avoid heat (this means everything from a hot shower to a sweaty workout) and skip deodorant for 24 hours after waxing. You can also apply a cold compress to your newly smooth underarms to soothe any stinging or irritation. Remember: skin gets less sensitive to waxing the more often you do it, so if it’s your first time, trust us: it won’t always be this uncomfortable.

Exfoliate again

The entire point of underarm waxing is that it lasts a really long time; taking proper care of that area will only prolong the life of your wax job. And no step is more important than exfoliation. Waxing pulls the entire hair from the follicle, allowing the skin to thicken and harden over the area. Removing this hardened skin is important in preventing ingrown hairs, so use a cotton washcloth to gently exfoliate once after the first 24 hours, then two to three times a week afterwards.

DO. NOT. SHAVE.

No matter how much you want to, do not pick up that razor. If you want the best results from waxing, all of your hair follicles need to be on the same growth cycle, and shaving in between will throw off this schedule.

Be patient

Depending on your hair, you may not get the totally long-lasting results you want—and that’s OK. Your first wax may only keep your underarms smooth for a couple of weeks, rather than the desired four. But the more regularly you wax, the better your results will be and, paradoxically, the longer you will be able to go between waxes. You’ll be going six whole weeks between appointments before you know it!

What your favorite nail polish color says about you

 

Everyone has a go-to nail color, but what does your fave polish *really* reveal about you? Whether you're a neutral gal or like to spice it up with rad reds or bold blues, the color you choose tells people a little bit about who you are.  Article source

• Both neutrals and French tips are subtle yet chic, minimal but versatile. The person who chooses these shades is put-together, friendly, sophisticated and dependable. They're always prepared and ready for anything, as their adaptable nail color will attest to. 

• Dark polishes make a bold statement with a hint of edge. The color and wearer are daring, confident, determined and fearless. Those that favor dark polishes are capable, intuitive and always make smart choices.

• Classic red is timeless, sophisticated and stylish. Anyone who wears this spirited color knows what they want and is decisive, resourceful and bold. They are poised, self-assured and graceful.

• Multicolored nails are gutsy and glam. Whether the wearer chooses to go ombre in their choice of color palette or mix it up with the colors of the rainbow, this fashion statement is spunky, playful and artsy. The wearer is creative, unique, imaginative and intuitive. 

• Blues and greens can be calming and peaceful or retro and fun! The range of shades provides endless options for fearless fun.  Those who choose this palette are adventurous, introspective, gutsy and lively.

• Metallics are glamorous, dramatic, flirty and fun. These nails show off your fabulous sparkling personality. The wearer is dynamic, charming, assertive and an optimist who sees the glass half full! 

Book an appointment with us today to get your perfect manicure and pedicure!