Spring Time Nail Look With OPI

 

Try all the cutest Spring themes in this pastel mix-and-match nail art tutorial. Best of all, you can create the designs using easy-to-find items, like a toothpick and bobby pin. 

Is Going Bare Foot Good For You?

Wasn’t man designed to go bare foot?

Well yes, we weren’t born with protective coverings on our feet, so obviously we were intended to walk around at least some of the time with no shoes on! But how often will depend on a number of factors.

What are the benefits?

Most Podiatrists would agree that some time bare foot is great for airing out your feet to keep them healthy. Another benefit is that your feet can become stronger when walking on different surfaces, thus reducing your risk of injury. Walking with no shoes for periods time can counteract the ill effects of poorly fitted shoes - bad shoes can cause a lot of problems!

There is also evidence that time without shoes on can improve balance and proprioception (your body's ability to know where it is in space).

Taking a bit of a look around the internet I have found some pretty big claims about the benefits of barefoot walking but take them with a grain of salt.. some of the benefits stated are improved sleep, blood pressure control, improved posture and decreased chronic pain.

What are the downsides of walking barefoot?

Walking bare foot can be tricky for people with underlying conditions, especially those with diabetes or other neurological impairment. If you have a condition that does mean that you have a decreased sensation in your feet, it is best that you keep your feet covered to protect them from injury. Any small injury to the foot could potentially lead to much more serious consequences.

Going barefooted in communal areas such as swimming pools or gym showers is quite a normal thing, but can expose you to infection, like fungus (tinea) or even viral infection (verruca, otherwise known as warts).

Walking for long periods of time on hard surfaces with no shoes can lead to increased callus growth that can become painful over time, but can also lead to back pain due to a lack of shock absorption at your feet. The hard shock of every step can reverberate to your spine.

Studies have shown that walking bare foot actually increases the risk of falls in the elderly.

If you do have a foot problem, extended periods walking without shoes may actually increase or accentuate the issues you have.

Is it right for me?

If you are in good health and have none of the problems listed above, bare foot walking can be beneficial for short periods of time.

What about for kids?

Bare foot walking is beneficial for children and will allow their feet to develop naturally. More on that in another blog :)

Anything else I should consider?

Way, way back when cavemen roamed the world barefoot, they would have walked on grass, dirt, sand and occasionally rocks – these days our environment is much harder on our feet with concrete, tiles and the like as regular surfaces we walk on. The flooring of today is much harder on our feet, and hence we shouldn’t really expect to be able to walk everywhere without shoes!

I have foot pain! Should I try bare foot walking to make me feel better?

If you have an existing foot problem, it would be unlikely that tossing your shoes will improve your foot health in the short term. Your best course of action is to find out why your feet are hurting by having a consultation with your podiatrist – we can help you tailor a plan to get your feet feeling better so you can walk comfortably with bare feet into the future!

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How To Improve Poor Circulation In The Feet

The body transports blood, oxygen, and nutrients to cells around the body through the circulatory system. If blood vessels in an area close, harden, or narrow, a person may develop reduced circulation.

Poor circulation in the feet can cause the feet to become cold, discolored, or numb. Cold weather or an underlying condition, such as Raynaud’s disease, can cause it.

People with poor circulation may notice their feet feel cold or numb. They may also notice discoloration. The feet may turn red, blue, purple, or white.

These symptoms may worsen in certain situations, such as when a person sits still for long periods or goes outside in cold weather. However, for some people, these symptoms may be constant or flare up due to an underlying condition.

Additional symptoms of poor circulation can include:

• dry or cracked skin
• hair loss on the legs or feet
• weak toenails
• slow wound healing 

Underlying Causes Of Poor Circulation In The Feet

Raynaud‘s disease

Raynaud’s disease syndrome causes blood vessels to narrow when someone is cold or, sometimes, when stressed. This limits the amount of blood flowing to the fingers and toes. RarelyTrusted Source, it may affect other areas, such as the nose and ears.

The symptoms include:

• fingers or toes turning white or blue
• cold extremities
• pain
• numbness
• tingling
• a burning sensation

These symptoms can last as little as 1 minute or as long as several hours.

Most people with Raynaud’s disease have the primary form of the condition. Some people have secondary Raynaud’s, which occurs due to another illness. Secondary Raynaud’s tends to be more severe.

There is no cure for Raynaud’s, but it is possible to reduce the symptoms and potentially reduce the frequency of attacks with medical treatment and lifestyle changes.

Acrocyanosis

Acrocyanosis is a condition that causes the extremities, such as the toes, to turn blue. This occurs when the blood vessels constrict, preventing blood flow and oxygen from moving through that part of the body.

It is a rare conditionTrusted Source that is similar to Raynaud’s phenomenon. The main symptoms include:

• blue-tinged fingers or toes
• cold, clammy skin
• swelling
• a typical pulse

As with Raynaud’s, there are two types of acrocyanosis: primary and secondary. Primary acrocyanosis occurs on its own and typically affects both sides of the body, for example, both feet. Further research is necessary to understand the cause.

Secondary acrocyanosis often affects only one side of the body and can beTrusted Source a result of many conditions, including eating disorders, blood disorders, and genetic conditions.

Diabetes

If a person has diabetes, they are at riskTrusted Source of blood vessel damage. This may happen if they experience high blood glucose levels for extended periods.

If a person with diabetes does not receive any treatment, they could develop reduced circulation in the feet, as well as foot ulcers that do not heal.

Managing diabetes effectively can help prevent foot problems. People with diabetes should receive an annual foot examination to ensure they do not have poor circulation, ulcers, or neuropathy.

Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis occurs when the arteries harden, and blood cannot travel through them easily.

Some people with arteriosclerosis exhibit no symptoms, while others may develop some. The symptoms vary depending on which arteries the condition affects and may include:

• pressure in the chest
• shortness of breath
• irregular heartbeat
• weakness
• problems with breathing
• confusion
• dizziness

Treatment for arteriosclerosis may include medication, such as medication to control a person’s cholesterol or surgery to open blocked arteries or remove plaque buildup.

Peripheral artery disease

If left untreated, arteriosclerosis can turn into peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD occurs when plaque builds up in arteries. This can reduce or even stopTrusted Source blood flow, resulting in tissue death and potentially amputation.

Symptoms may include:

• leg pain
• weakness in the legs
• leg cramping
• toenails not growing
• a pale or blue foot

Prescription medication can improve symptoms in people with reduced circulation. In more severe cases, a person may require surgery.

How to improve circulation at home

The best way to improve foot circulation is to treat any underlying conditions that may be causing it. If doctors cannot pinpoint a cause, however, several self-care strategies may help.

People can try:

• Move more: A 2020 studyTrusted Source found that simple leg stretches can help improve vascular function after 12 weeks. The stretching regime made arteries less stiff, helping them dilate. If sitting for a long time, set reminders to get up and move around.
• Massage: Massaging the feet can stimulate circulation. People with Raynaud’s may also find it helps prevent or shorten attacks.
• Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help manage unavoidable stress.
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can constrict blood vessels and exacerbateTrusted Source Raynaud’s.
• Wear compression socks: Compression socks apply pressure to the legs and feet, forcing blood to travel back toward the heart.
• Stay warm: If circulation problems worsen in cold conditions, keep the home at a comfortable temperature and wrap up in layers. Use hand or foot warmers when necessary.

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OPI Spring Nail Look

 

 

Here is a fun nail art to get ready for spring with this easy, colorful creation using OPI.

Step 1

Apply a coat of OPI Natural Base Coat and let dry.

Step 2

Apply a coat of OPI Baby Take Vow and let completely dry.

Step 3

Apply Dots of Each Shade starting at the tip of the nail going up towards the cuticle, tapering in size.

Step 4

Apply more larger dots at the tip of the nail to create ombre

Step 5

Clean up any lacquer on the skin with a clean up brush saturated in lacquer remover.

Step 6

Apply a coat of OPI Top Coat.

Enjoy!

What Does Your Nail Polish Say About You?

When It comes to the color of someone’s nail polish, it might seem like a random, purely aesthetic decision - but often, it says so much more. The burning question is: what does your nail polish say about you? From natural shades to bright pops of color, everyone has their nail polish of choice and this is the gateway to who that person is. 

Red; 

If your nails are a scarlet red, you have made a bold choice and a glamorous statement. Red nails are an indicator of someone daring and passionate - but above all, confident. Red comes in various shades, and despite the small tone differences, they can be worlds apart. Brighter red shades are retro and summery, making it the ideal option for the warmer months. If you opt for this, you are likely going for a bold, fun vibe. Darker shades of red, like maroon, are classic winter shades. It gives off regal energy, with just a touch of sophistication.

Light Pink; 

Pale pink nails are the epitome of simple, yet elegant.Those who have pale pink nails are sometimes low-key and quiet, not wanting to make a bold statement. This shade is perfect for those who want to have versatility in their style and look well put together. It is also a firm favorite with people who work in corporate, as it blends in well. 

Yellow; 

For those living on the wilder side, yellow is the ideal shade option for nails. It is a cheery color that exudes warmth and a friendly disposition, indicative of a light-hearted person. This is also the perfect addition to bohemian style and those who want to stand out and be seen. If you like the color but want something a bit more subdued, opt for a pastel yellow.

Purple; 

Purple shades are a popular nail option, but the exact shade can differ in what it says about a person. 

Darker shades of purple are very unique and artistic, reflecting those qualities in the person donning it. 

The lighter shades, like lilac, are playful and timeless. It is often similar to a light pink, which is a true summer classic.

Green;

Green is an earthy tone that can exude a person’s personality. It is sometimes a fashion and political statement at the same time. Darker green shades like emerald, and lighter shades like lime, have become prevalent in the fashion world. Those who opt for these are exhibiting knowledge and following style trends. Going green is also a great way to show off environmental beliefs. Whether it’s raising awareness of issues, or showing your love for the planet, green is a subtle nod to this.

Blue; 

Blue can be fun and spunky, or calm and earthy. Dark navy is a subtle, elegant color on nails and shows a subdued personality with a hint of hidden edginess. Blue shades in the middle, like a royal blue, are bold and exciting and indicative of someone who wants to stand out in a crowd. Light blue shades, like a pastel, are young and feminine. It shows a person is simple in their tastes but does like to put a twist on things.

Neon;

Neon is not for the faint-hearted. It is for the cool, vibrant crowd who set trends instead of following them. This is the shade worn by those who are extroverted, social butterflies. It is also a summery option, for beach lovers who want their nails to shine through the blue waves.

Nude;

Nude colors on nails can be versatile, in the simplest way possible. Lighter nudes blend well into the skin, which is preferred by people who want a straightforward color that looks polished, without making too much of a statement. It can exude simplicity and elegance and suits those who are effortlessly chic in other areas, like dress sense. Darker nudes, like dark brown shades, are earthy and trendy. It combines the elegance of the nude with a slight edge that makes it a colder choice, ideal for those who strike a balance between subtlety and fun in everything they do.

Black;

Black is a classic color in most realms, but on nails, they fall on more of the alternative side. Black sure makes a statement, with those who wear it also sporting a no-nonsense attitude. It is also the nail color of those who rebel against the rules of society, and instead create their own rules. It is a trendy color for nails and an excellent choice for winter in particular. Personality aside, it is also a color that goes with absolutely everything. If you tend to play around with the color palettes of your outfits, but still want your nails to match, black is your go-to.

Grey;

Shades of grey are a fashionable, subtle option that balances between art and minimalism. 

Those who wear this particular shade are generally chic intellectuals who enjoy modern simplicity. The frosty nails are a winter essential. Darker means edgier, and lighter means classic. If you want to take it to a more unique level, try mixing and matching. A grey ombre, or a different shade on each nail, will put a quirky twist on a subtle shade.

There are so many shades to choose from, but each says a lot about your preferences, and who you are. 

Because of this, pick your nail color with intention. Instead of blindly following what the trends are, opt for a style and color that displays and suits your style.

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Foot Care for Seniors: 10 Important Tips

Proper foot care is essential for older adults because it can help prevent injuries, falls and complications from chronic diseases like diabetes. Learn how to properly care for your feet so they can continue to take you wherever you need to go.

1.) Be good to your soles. As you age, the muscle tissue in your feet can thin and your nerves may not work effectively. This can lead to loss of feeling in your feet (neuropathy). Use a long-handled mirror – it will extend your reach several inches – to see what you may not feel. Examine the soles of your feet and in-between your toes every day for cuts, blisters, sores or any areas of skin breakdown from moisture. This is especially important if you have diabetes.

2.) Choose the right footwear. Wearing the right footwear can help you keep your balance, prevent falls and reduce the risk of blisters and other injuries. Never purchase shoes that rub or slide around on your heel as you walk – this is a common way to develop blisters that can become more serious sores. Also avoid shoes that are too tight, slick on the bottom, have high heels or pointy toes. If you have diabetes or neuropathy, talk with your doctor about prescription orthotics (supports or devices worn in your shoes). You may be eligible for custom orthotics partially covered by Medicare.

3.) Get the right fit. Here are a few suggestions:

• Prop up your feet on a stool or couch when sitting down
• Wiggle your toes when you sit for long periods of time
• Stretch daily
• Give yourself regular foot massages

4.) Barefoot isn’t better. When going outdoors, always wear shoes (preferably closed-toe shoes) to prevent cuts, scrapes and falls. It’s also best to wear shoes as much as possible while indoors to protect your feet.

5.) Keep your toenails in tip-top shape. Trimming your toenails correctly (straight across and no shorter than the tip of your toe) is key for preventing ingrown toenails. If you have diabetes or trouble reaching your feet, see a podiatrist (a physician who specializes in foot care), not a nail salon technician, for regular medical pedicures and nail trimming.

6.) Get the blood flowing. As you age, you may have decreased blood circulation to your feet. To promote healthy circulation:

• Prop up your feet on a stool or couch when sitting down
• Wiggle your toes when you sit for long periods of time
• Stretch daily
• Give yourself regular foot massages

And, if you smoke, now’s the time to quit. Smoking can affect good circulation in the body.

7.) Keep your feet dry … Change your socks regularly and make sure your feet aren’t damp from sweat or a shower before putting on your shoes.

8.) … But not too dry. Keep your feet moisturized to prevent cracking, itching and calluses. Stick with gentle soap and apply cream or lotion daily after your shower or bath.

9.) Fight fungal infections. Prevent athlete’s foot by wearing shoes that fit properly, changing your socks or stockings daily (or whenever they become damp) and applying foot powder each day. If you experience itching or burning, see your podiatrist for treatment.

10.) Visit your podiatrist regularly for foot checks. Your podiatrist can catch problems like bone spurs, hammertoe, neuromas, bunions, warts, ingrown toenails or wounds before they cause more serious problems.

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OPI Your Way Spring 2024 Nail Polish Collection Swatch & Review

 

 

Swatch & review of the new OPI Your Way nail polish collection for spring 2024 - we have 12 brand new colors including typical spring pastel shades plus some really interesting sheer sparkles!

Callused Skin

A foot callus is formed when thick, hardened skin accumulates over areas of continual friction or pressure usually on the sides and soles of the feet. 

There are times when internal or external factors disrupt the equal distribution of body weight on your feet. Areas of the foot that are not used to that kind of repeated pressure tend to harden or thicken as a defensive measure. Incorrect footwear is also a common cause of calluses on the soles of the feet and sides of the big toe.

While unsightly and uncomfortable, calluses are actually a protective mechanism—the body’s way of protecting the skin on the feet from breaking down under constant irritation. This protection is especially important for seniors, who have very thin skin on the feet; diabetics, for whom a break in the skin can lead to a life-threatening infection; as well as athletes, runners, dancers and anyone else that experiences constant friction during activities. 

However, calluses can become particularly hard and thick, leading to extreme discomfort; in some cases, very painful too, with the risk of complications. For this demographic, it becomes specially important to treat foot calluses with specialized foot care products and techniques, where the calluses are softened and reduced to desirable levels to restore optimal foot appearance and health.

FOOT CALLUS TREATMENT

Typically, eliminating the cause of irritation (for example, ill-fitting shoes) can stop a foot callus from getting worse; however, a stubborn foot callus will remain. While it’s tempting to take drastic measures to remove a callus by using a razor, rasp or other type of shaver or sharp instrument, this is never recommended—even if done by a licensed pedicurist. These procedures are not only dangerous but are actually outlawed in many areas throughout the world. Instead, proper foot callus treatment involves softening and reducing the foot callus formation. In this way, the feet are made more comfortable and attractive, while still offering appropriate protection from friction and pressure.

Be Careful when using strong, chemical foot callus removers which contain high concentrations of caustic ingredients such as salicylic acid and potassium hydroxide can cause irritation and even chemical burns on fragile skin. Also avoid thick salves or heavy emollients. While these products initially seem to soften calluses, they are greasy, slow to absorb and usually provide temporary results. There products might seem appealing for an easy, quick fix but please understand that some of the chemicals in these products are very harsh which can lead to more issues. 

The best foot callus treatment begins with a professional pedicure using callus removers that contain gentle, but highly effective ingredients. If you suffer from foot calluses, look for non-aggressive treatments which contain ingredients such as Urea. Urea is a natural end product of metabolism and a humectant, which means it has the ability to attract and retain moisture. Urea also has excellent exfoliating properties which help to unlock skin cells which are tightly packed together (such as the cells that comprise a stubborn foot callus!) without disturbing the natural skin’s natural processes. Urea is also naturally anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Urea is used in a variety of skin care products to target general skin dryness or medical conditions associated with dry or itchy skin. Urea can also help exfoliate dead skin buildup and may help target fungal infections.

Having healthy and beautiful feet year-round is important. We do not want you to be embarrassed to wear sandals in public.

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Book a pedicure with Upkept today! Ask us about how we can help you with your callused skin! 

How to: Four Leaf Clover Easy St. Patrick’s Day Nail Art

 

 

Time to bring out all your favorite Spring green OPI Nail Lacquer shades and grab a detail brush and dotting tool! DIY hack, if you don’t have a dotting tool, you’re still in luck, open the bobby pin up and use the pin’s rounded tip to make your dots. Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy nail art tutorials. 

What Are the Benefits of Cuticle Oil?

Cuticle oil is a moisturizing product for your nails and cuticles. It’s most commonly made up of vegetable oils and sometimes contains vitamins and citric acid.

Cuticles that are exposed to excessive cold, sun, chlorine, or salty or soapy water can become chapped, cracked, and dry. In these cases of extreme dryness and damage, cuticle oil can help moisturize your cuticle and nail, restoring it to health.

Applying cuticle oil can increase the circulation around your nails, stimulating nail growth. It can also help to protect your nail and cuticle against trauma.

The oil can also help improve the health and appearance of your nail. If you paint your nails, cuticle oil can also protect your polish for a lasting shine.

How to use it

You’ll only need to use a few drops, because most oils work best in small amounts.

Depending on the product you’re using, you can either dab your cuticles with a cotton ball or brush the oil on. Apply a few drops to each cuticle and then massage in for a few minutes.

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Identify Four Major Foot Problems

As a nail tech, we are prepared to recognize–and know how to handle–a foot malady before the first swipe of our file. Here, we identify four common foot issues...

• Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is the layperson’s term for a fungal infection, or tinea pedis. Although it usually only affects the superficial layers of the skin, the problem isn’t superficial at all; the infection is easily picked up, especially via exposure of feet and contact with communal areas, such as locker rooms and showers. The condition shows up as dry, flake, scaly skin between the toes and around the sides of the foot, accompanied by intense itching and burning. Another less obvious presentation of the disorder, notes Katharin Von Gavel, founder and CEO of Footlogix, “is dry or rough feet, to the point where they catch on bedsheets at night. But, moisturizers just don’t work.” She adds that today’s practice of wearing flip-flops leaves our feet more prone to drying out. The dry skin then creates portals through which fungi can enter. Middle-aged and elderly women are especially vulnerable to this problem.

What should clients do?

Although nail techs cannot diagnose, you can suggest clients try a moisturizer with an anti-fungal and advise them to change shoes and socks frequently, avoid exposure in common areas and keep feet in good condition to lower risk of infection. You should also encourage clients to see a medical professional; There are many OTC and prescription preparations for treating tinea pedis.

• Cracked Heels

Cracked heels arise from dry, dead skin that has built up over time–the resulting thick calluses split and cause pain. In some cases, the cracks are deep enough to bleed because they’ve gone into the epidermal layer. Not only is this condition painful, it can be dangerous, as it leaves the body open to viral, fungal or bacterial infection.

What should clients do?

If cracks aren’t deep enough to require medical attention, the solution is consistent home and professional care focused on exfoliation and hydration to help the skin heal.

• Bunions

A bunion is a progressive deformity of the joint of the big toe, usually due to an inherited faulty mechanical structure in the foot, and it appears as a bump on the side of the big toe. Although it isn’t always painful, bunions are still the most common reason for foot pain, and can cause inflammation and even numbness.

What should clients do?

Shoes don’t cause bunions, but high heels or a tight toe box can worsen the condition. Bunion pads, icing and anti-inflammatory medications can provide relief–if not, doctors can offer injection therapy, orthotics or surgery.

• Plantar Warts 

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (aka, the HPV virus). “They look like rough bumps that disrupt the “fingerprint” lines on the palms of hands and soles of feet,” says Hudacek. “They are harmless, but can be painful to walk on.” If not in a weight-bearing area, a wart can go undetected for years. The bumps may resemble a callus, but with tiny black dots on their surface (from dried blood contained in the capillaries).

What should clients do?

Although some home remedies exist, doctors urge patients with warts to never try to remove them at home. Topical and oral treatments, laser therapy, cryotherapy, acid treatments or surgery are available.

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