DONT FORGET ABOUT OUR GIFT CARDS!

MOTHERS DAY is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate all the amazing caregivers in our lives!  This year, let’s treat them to some well-deserved pampering! 

Visit StayUpKept.com, and grab the perfect gift card instantly. Give them the power to choose their favorite indulgences. Whether it’s the deep clean of the Sole Soothe Pedicure, the blissful Soleful Escape 30-Minute Foot & Leg Massage, or the refreshing Essential Manicure—why not let them enjoy all three?  Let’s make this Mother’s Day a joyful celebration of love and appreciation!  Gift cards are a great way to gift give because it takes the pressure away from choosing the perfect item and in this situation gives them an experience or "getaway" even.

Gift card purchase and Online booking found conveniently at StayUpKept.com

Do Not Ignore Discolored Toenails

When it comes to foot health, toenails can often serve as a critical indicator of underlying issues. Fungal infections in the feet are a widespread problem, affecting millions of people each year. While both skin and nail fungus are caused by fungi, they vary in several aspects, including their symptoms, causes, and treatments.

Nail fungus is most commonly caused by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes, though yeasts and molds can also lead to the infection. Risk factors for developing nail fungus include aging, diabetes, wearing tight shoes, and trauma to the nail plate.

To effectively evaluate a client's feet, it's essential to not only be familiar with potential foot conditions and their symptoms but also to recognize what healthy feet and nails look like. A healthy nail should be fully attached to the nail bed, slightly pink, translucent, and free of any spots or discoloration. Ignoring signs of indications of discolored toenails could lead to further complications, and here’s why it’s essential to address the issue promptly.

Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that impacts the nails on both the hands and feet. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, causing more significant discoloration, nail brittleness, and even pain. A fungal infection can spread to other nails or surrounding skin, leading to conditions like athlete’s foot. The treatment for toenail fungus and skin fungus varies depending on the severity of the infection and where on the foot the infection is. 

Athlete’s foot type skin fungus can often be treated with over-the-counter products such as the Footlogix® Peeling Skin Formula and dry, sandpaper like skin type of fungus infection can be resolved with the Footlogix® Rough Skin Formula. Mild cases of skin fungus can resolve in a few days/weeks whereas more severe cases can take time to fully resolve.   

Addressing toenail discoloration early on is key to stopping the infection in its tracks. Footlogix® Nail Tincture is a highly effective product designed to target unsightly, yellowed toenails that are prone to fungal infection. The spray applicator allows for easy use and the formula contains superior ingredients that help restore nail health. It’s a must-have in your foot care routine if you notice your nails starting to look discolored or damaged.

In some cases, discolored toenails can be a sign of more serious health conditions. Yellow or thickened nails may indicate diabetes or circulation issues, while dark streaks or spots under the toenail could suggest trauma or even a rare form of skin cancer called melanoma.

While discolored nails are not always a direct indication of these conditions, it’s important to be vigilant. If discoloration is accompanied by other symptoms, such as persistent pain, swelling, or if the nail doesn’t improve with treatment, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

By addressing discoloration early with proper care and treatments like Footlogix® Nail Tincture, you can prevent the nail from becoming permanently damaged. The ingredients work together to restore the nail to its natural state and promote healthy regrowth.

Regular use of products like Footlogix® Nail Tincture can help maintain the health of your toenails. Its lightweight formula benefits damaged nails, helping to protect them as they grow out. Your feet carry you through life—give them the care they deserve.

Foot care professionals can confidently recommend Footlogix® home-care solutions to anyone, as they are safe for all individuals, including those with diabetes, seniors, and immune-compromised clients. Source

Ask us today about the Footlogix products we use and recommend in our spa...

How to Thin Nail Polish

Is your nail polish clumpy and do you need to know how to thin nail polish? We’ve all been there. It’s incredibly disappointing to open the nail polish bottle to discover that it’s a clumpy mess. There’s no way that you can use polish like that. But what if there was a solution to this? The good news is, there are multiple solutions and we’ve provided them all. Thinning out thick nail polish isn’t all that difficult. Sure, you’ll need to add an extra ingredient to the polish, but that’s about it. 

Thinning Out Slightly Thick Nail Polish;

Use Hot Water

Hot water works great if your nail polish hasn’t thickened too much yet. Grab a bowl and fill it with hot water. Make sure the water isn’t too hot before placing the nail polish in the bowl. If it’s too hot, the glass nail polish bottle might crack. Leave the polish in the water for about 2-minutes before removing it. Remember that the bottle will have heated up from the water so be careful not to burn yourself. Once the bottle is cool enough to touch, you’ll need to mix the polish. Yes, we know that shaking the bottle seems the obvious choice. Unfortunately, shaking the nail polish causes air bubbles. This leads to easily chipped nail polish. Instead, turn the bottle upside down and roll it between your palms. Using hot water is only a temporary solution and might not work if the polish is very thick. On the plus side, it’s a great way to open a stuck nail polish bottle. The heat from the water will make it easier to twist open. 

Thinning Out Clumpy Nail Polish;

Get a Nail Polish Thinner

This might seem obvious, but get yourself a nail polish thinner. As the name states, this product is specifically created to thin out clumpy nail polish. You’ll need to add about 2 drops into your nail polish bottle (or as directed on the thinner). Mix the polish as we explained above, by rolling it between your palms.Check the polish to see if it’s thinned out and add another drop of thinner if needed. Be careful thinning your nail polish. Too much nail polish thinner will make the polish unable to stick to your nails. 

Use Acetone or Nail Polish Remover

Acetone and nail polish remover can be used for more than cleaning your nails. As with the thinner above, a little goes a long way. Use an eyedropper and add a single drop of acetone or remover to the nail polish. Swirl the polish to ensure it mixes through and then check the consistency. Add another drop if needed and mix again. Keep in mind that acetone and nail polish remover are for breaking down nail polish. The nail polish won’t last long on your nails and will likely degrade in the bottle as well. Acetone also tends to dry the nails and skin. Adding it to your nail polish means it will be in constant contact with your nails. This can turn your nails brittle and weak. They’ll be more prone to breakage and splitting, and no one wants that. 

Use Alcohol

Using alcohol too thin nail polish is likely the most viable solution. But you obviously can’t use just any alcohol you have around the house. Isopropyl alcohol acts like ethyl acetate, which is the solvent used in most polishes. This means that you can use it as a replacement solvent if your polish becomes clumpy.If you were wondering how to make nail polish last longer in the bottle, this is how. Use an eyedropper and add 2 drops of isopropyl alcohol to the nail polish. Mix the polish and then check the consistency. Add another drop if needed and repeat the process. All the polish to settle for about 20-minutes before applying it to your nails. 

Source

Happy Easter

 

Happy Easter To You From UpKept Nail Spa!

Phone: 707.208.7646

Email: info@stayupkept.com

Address: 536 Main Street

Vacaville, CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

How To Achieve a Perfect Dazzle Dry Manicure

 

 

Dazzle Dry is a 4-step nail lacquer system that dries in 5 minutes, making your nails everything-proof when you need it most. Ask about the new spring collection at your next appointment!

Phone:

707.208.7646

Email:

info@stayupkept.com

Address:

536 Main Street

Vacaville, CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

Opening Hours:

By Appointment

CLOSED Sunday & Monday

The Importance of Arch Support

Arch support isn’t just about comfort; it’s crucial for preserving optimal foot health and promoting overall physical well-being. It allows for the even distribution of foot pressure, minimizing the stress put on specific areas of the feet and effectively reducing fatigue and discomfort. This balanced distribution also stabilizes foot movements, promoting better posture and alignment throughout the body. As a result, individuals may notice decreased foot-related discomfort and have a lower risk of developing issues often linked to poor foot mechanics, such as knee, hip, and back pain. Additionally, incorporating appropriate arch support into footwear can enhance athletic performance by improving foot reaction and agility. Ultimately, the benefits of arch support extend beyond the feet, supporting a more active and pain-free lifestyle.

Arch support mainly benefits those with flat or high arches. Those with flat feet often experience a lack of natural arch curvature, resulting in a tendency towards excessive inward rolling of the feet, which can ultimately cause a myriad of foot and ankle issues. In contrast, individuals with high arches face challenges with shock absorption due to the excessive curvature of their feet, making them susceptible to discomfort and injury. While people with normal arches usually don’t need additional arch support, those with non-standard arch types must stay aware of their foot health to look for any issues that may arise. It’s essential for individuals to identify their unique arch type and recognize the importance of targeted arch support in preserving foot health and function.

Arch support plays a critical role in safeguarding against common foot ailments by ensuring proper alignment and reducing unnecessary strain on the foot. It helps maintain the foot’s natural shape, especially for those prone to conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Adequate arch support also helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, thus preventing localized stress that could lead to tendonitis or bursitis. This equitable distribution of force across the foot’s surface reduces the risk of injury and contributes to overall foot stability. Preventing the foot from adopting harmful positions during movement, such as overpronation or supination, lowers the chance of developing injuries that could sideline you from daily activities or sports.

When shopping for shoes that cater to your arch support needs, prioritizing fit and personalized comfort is essential. Here are things to consider when looking for proper footwear:

• Fit: Choose shoes that snugly accommodate the contours of your foot without causing discomfort or constriction.
• Insoles: Shoes equipped with premium insoles, or the possibility to insert specialized aftermarket insoles, can make a significant difference.
• Balance: The ideal shoe will provide a blend of flexibility for natural foot movement and stability to support your arches effectively.
• The Material: Consider the material, as higher quality components can enhance the shoe’s supportive capabilities and ensure its longevity.

Focusing on these criteria can help you find footwear that offers the necessary arch support and contributes to your overall foot comfort and health in daily life. While box stores may offer instant solutions with off-the-shelf orthotics or custom-fit promises, these options often fall short of addressing your feet’ unique needs. You should consult a professional who can guide you to orthotic labs or provide medical-grade recommendations for truly effective arch support. Remember, the proper support is not a one-size-fits-all; it’s about what best suits your needs. Source

Healthy feet, Happy life

Your feet are the foundation of an active lifestyle, but odds are you don't give them proper attention."As you age, healthy feet become essential for being mobile, active, and safe," says Dr. Kevin Riemer, a podiatrist with Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. "You need to give them the required care in order to prevent problems, reduce pain, and avoid injuries."

Foot care should be part of every man's regular health maintenance. One of the first steps is to practice good regular foot hygiene. Here are some guidelines to follow;

• Keep your feet clean. This reduces the risk of harmful bacteria and can ward off fungal infections like athlete's foot. Wash your feet every day, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. The skin of the feet tends to grow thinner and drier with age, so after washing, apply a liberal amount of moisturizing lotion. However, avoid moisturizing between the toes, as dampness here can lead to fungal growth.

• Trim your toenails. Cut your toenails straight across, never at an angle on the sides, which may cause ingrown toenails (a condition in which the nail grows into the adjacent skin). Use a toenail clipper larger and wider than one used for fingernails.

• Manage calluses. Deep calluses can crack and bleed, causing pain and risking infection. Use a pumice stone or foot file to remove calluses gently. Follow up with moisturizer.

• Look for signs of trouble. Examine your feet regularly, including the tops, soles, under the toenails, and in between toes. Look for any changes, growths, or discolorations. If your foot swells or changes color, it could be a sign of poor circulation or even a fractured bone, and you should seek medical care. If you have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, alert your doctor about red spots, bruises, calluses, and corns. Any mole, freckle, or spot that appears to have changed over the past month could be a sign of skin cancer and should be examined.

Your feet need regular exercise, just like any other body part. Performing regular stretches can increase foot and ankle flexibility and strengthen foot muscles to improve balance and reduce the risk of injuries like ankle sprains. Here are three exercises to try;

1.) Bottom-of-foot stretch. Stand with your feet together. Step back with your left leg, ending with your heel raised and toes pressed against the floor. You should feel a gentle stretch in the muscles on the bottom of your foot. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat with your right foot.

2.) Top-of-foot stretch. Stand with your feet together. Working with one foot at a time, raise your heel and curl your toes under, pressing the tops of your toes against the floor. You should feel a gentle stretch in the muscles on the top of your feet and the front of your ankle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat with the other foot.

3.) Calf stretch. Sore feet can often be traced back to tight calves. From a standing position, place one foot directly in front of the other. Keeping your back heel on the ground and your back knee straight, slowly bend forward until you feel a stretch in the calf of your back leg. If needed, hold on to the back of a chair for balance. Hold for 10 seconds, and then reverse your foot position and repeat the stretch on the other calf. Repeat the sequence three to five times.

Source

7 Steps to Healthier Cuticles

What Should You Be Looking At? 

The cuticle sits atop your nail. It's actually an extension of your skin and it protects your nails by acting as a barrier for bacteria. You can tell if your cuticles are dry if they’re flaking, cracked, or peeling. If you notice this then take action fast as cracked and peeling cuticles may allow bacteria to enter your nails and cause an infection. 

What Causes Dry Cuticles? 

Dry cuticles can come from multiple factors. During the winter, cold weather coupled with dry indoor heat, as well as several possible internal factors can contribute to your less-than-stellar nail beds. We recommend taking a moment and identifying possible cuticle culprits that are simple fixes. Look at the cleaning products you use on a regular basis because they can intensify dryness. Do you spend time working outside? Also, how hydrated are you on a daily basis? All these small factors can contribute to dry cuticles.  

How To Treat Dry Cuticles. 

1. Use a good hand and nail moisturizing cream daily. Keep a hand cream or lotion on hand so that after you wash your hands on the go you can moisturize.

2. Hydrate, hydrate, and then hydrate some more. Water intake is vital for healthy skin, so carry a bottle with you at all times. If indoor heating is drying out your skin, it may be worth investing in a humidifier too. 

3. Keep your cuticles pushed back. This can help prevent skin tearing and pulling behind the cuticle line. Take a reusable cuticle stick and push back the cuticle on each nail. Once you’ve done this, wipe away the loosened cuticle. We don’t recommend picking at your cuticles, so only carefully trim any excess skin if you really have to.  

4. Wear gloves. When it comes to washing dishes or submerging your hands in water, reach for a pair of rubber gloves beforehand. Water and detergent can dry out your hands, and cause your cuticles further problems. 

5. Go chemical-free. Harsh soaps, hand sanitizers, and nail polish removers can dry out your cuticles. Try to swap your products for cleansing oils when washing your hands and avoid alcohol-based sanitizers. 

6. Get the prep work in now. If you’re already showing signs of dry winter skin, treat yourself before it’s too late. You can exfoliate in the shower to buff away any dry unwanted skin then moisturize when you exit the shower.

7. Up your vitamins. Cracked cuticles may be a sign of Zinc or Vitamin E deficiency. Reverse this problem by eating more foods rich in essential omega 3’s like spinach, salmon, and other seafood. If your nails are brittle, explore biotin supplements. Source

Why Cutting Your Toenails is Important for Good Health

Toenail cutting is important for maintaining good foot health and preventing various issues. Here are some reasons why toenail cutting is important:

• Preventing ingrown nails:   Trimming toenails properly helps prevent ingrown nails, which occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. Ingrown nails can be painful, lead to infections, and increase the risk of other foot problems.
• Reducing the risk of nail-related infections:  When toenails are too long, they can create an environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Trimming nails short and keeping them clean reduces the risk of nail infections, such as fungal infections (onychomycosis) and bacterial infections.
• Avoiding discomfort and pain:  Overgrown toenails can cause discomfort and pain. They may press against the inside of shoes, leading to pressure sores, blisters, or corns. Proper nail trimming ensures that the nails remain at a comfortable length, reducing discomfort and pain.
• Promoting proper foot mechanics:  If toenails are excessively long, they can interfere with the normal mechanics of the foot. This can lead to changes in gait, pressure distribution, and overall foot function. Trimming toenails allows the toes and feet to move and function optimally.
• Maintaining foot hygiene:   Trimming toenails is part of good foot hygiene. It helps to keep the feet clean and prevents the accumulation of dirt, debris, or sweat under the nails. Proper foot hygiene is essential for preventing foot odor, fungal infections, and other foot-related issues.

When trimming toenails, it is important to follow some guidelines for proper nail care:

• Use clean, sterilized nail clippers or scissors specifically designed for toenails.
• Trim the nails straight across, avoiding curved or rounded edges. This helps prevent ingrown nails.
• Do not cut the nails too short, as it can increase the risk of ingrown nails and injury.
• Smooth the edges of the nails with a nail file to prevent sharp edges.
• Trim nails regularly to maintain an appropriate length, typically every 2-3 weeks.

Source

Spring into Self-Care

Spring has sprung, which means shedding your winter layers, and hopefully, enjoying warmer temperatures. It is also an opportunity to pay more attention to your own well-being. With these top tips for self-care, you will feel energized, rejuvenated, and ready to start summer anew. There are many approaches to self-care. On the surface, it can refer to taking care of your skin, appearance, or your fitness. Spa days, shopping trips, and indulging in comfort foods are usually what come to mind. But on a deeper level, it can mean changing your outlook to make every day feel more comfortable. However you define it, it is worthwhile to make time for self-care and find what works best for you.

Here are a few ways to utilize self care for the spring time...

Care for your skin;

If the winter chill has left your skin dry and cracked, make this the time to nourish your body’s largest organ. For lasting relief, try a moisturizer with ceramides, lipids found naturally in the skin.

Get moving outside if possible;

Cabin fever can run rampant this time of year. If the weather cooperates, immerse yourself in nature by going on a hike through the budding forest. Make an effort to take in the natural smells, sounds, and sights of the outdoors. Studies show that spending time in nature can provide a big mental health boost. If the weather is too wet, try indoor yoga or stretching.

Indulge yourself;

Treat yourself to a simple pleasure. Taking a hot Epsom salt bath, getting a massage, eating a healthy snack, or even putting on a favorite movie can put your mind at ease.

Meditate​​​​​;

Being present and mindful can boost your mental wellness. To get started, sit comfortably and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth five times. Try to clear your mind and focus on breathing from your belly instead of your upper diaphragm. Throughout your self-care journey, you may find your mind wandering back towards everyday stressors or upcoming tasks. Take a moment to re-center your thoughts should they get away from you. Focus on your current well-being.

Embrace doing nothing;

After you start to feel more relaxed, make time to do something valuable: nothing. Allow yourself the opportunity to be bored. Make your next task one of rediscovery. Revisit a former hobby or catch up with old friends or family members. Self-care can also be about creating a daily life that you do not have to “escape” from. Investing time in yourself can make each day feel like a special occasion. Give these ideas a try:

• Declutter: Sort through old clothes, documents, and other items you can live without and donate them. To make this a more dramatic, lasting change, purge your home of unnecessary items in a single weekend. A large, sudden change can have lasting effects and will leave you feeling brand new.
• Learn a new skill: Try a few new recipes, consider learning a new language, or sample some different hobbies. Give yourself time to stick to your new experiences. After all, many agree that it takes at least 21 days to form a new habit.
• Volunteer: Those who regularly spend time helping others are often happier themselves. Find a local cause that matters to you and commit to it.
• Tune up your finances: Use spring as a time to revisit your family’s budget. Keeping track of your spending habits or planning a financial comeback now can help you put your mind at ease when you lack the time or mental energy later.
• Re-plan your typical day: If a typical day is too hectic as it is, consider cutting out certain tasks. Although it may seem harsh, saying “no” more often can help free up time and cut stress from your life.
• Hack your schedule: To make work days less stressful, try “meal prepping.” Cooking and freezing meals in advance is an easy way to stay healthy when a long day has drained your energy to cook.

Give yourself time to take care of yourself this spring. To maximize results, consider taking a day or two off work to spend time on yourself. Your body and mind will thank you for it once you return to the ups and downs of everyday life. Source