What’s the Perfect Nail Shape for Your Fingers

Do you have a go-to nail shape you usually get at the nail salon or do on yourself? Want to find a nail shape that naturally compliments your hands? Let’s take a look at the different nail shapes and what type of hands they are perfect for!

Almond Nail = The Elegant

Almond nails are a popular nail shape characterized by curvy edges and tapered ends that arch to a rounded tip, resembling the shape of an almond. This shape elongates the fingers and offers a feminine and elegant appearance. Almond nails are compatible for both short and long nails as it creates an appearance of longer nail beds.

Round = The Classic

Round nails are a classic, with curvy edges and round tips. This shape resembles the natural fingertip and offers a soft, understated look. Round nails are often most suitable for short nails for an effortlessly natural appearance and fitting for most hand types due to its simplicity. Round nails offer low maintenance nails that are less prone to breaking and optimal for everyday wear. Perfect for: Short and wide fingers

Oval = The Simplistic 

Oval nails have a rounded tip and an elongated shape. While it looks similar to almond nails, the sides of oval nails slightly curve inward following the natural shape of the nails and has a rounder tip. It is most suitable for people with short fingers and long palms, as they make the fingers appear longer. Oval nails are elegant and low maintenance, perfect for an everyday wear. Perfect for: Short fingers, Long palm

Square = The Bold

Square nails are straight on the sides and tip with sharp corners, creating an effortlessly bold look. Square nails are versatile in style and design, as it looks flawless for any length. Whether you want your nails short for low maintenance, or long for extravagant designs, square nails are the perfect shape to fulfill your desires. Perfect for: Long fingers, Long palm

Squoval = The Contemporary

Can’t decide between oval and square nails? Squoval nails are the best of both worlds! It has straight edges with soft curves. Squoval nails offers the strength and durability of square nails while also providing the elegance and softer look of oval nails. While it is suitable for any type of hand, it is best for hands with long fingers and wide palms. Similar to square nails, squoval nails are versatile and works for any nail length. Perfect for: Long fingers, Wide palms

Coffin = The Diva

Coffin nails are a favorite, unleashing your inner diva. It distinguishes from square nails through its tapered sides with flat tips, mirroring the shape of a coffin. Coffin nails are often worn at longer lengths to accentuate their sleek and bold appearance. Its flat surface allows for versatility in creating intricate and creative designs. Perfect for: Short and slim fingers

Stiletto = The Fierce

Stiletto nails scream confidence and fierce. Similar to the almond shape, stiletto nails have straight edges that come together to a pointed tip. This shape is often worn with a longer length to create a dramatic, sleek look that makes short fingers look elongated. Stiletto nails are harder to maintain and prone to breakage, but its fierce appearance allows for dramatic and intricate designs Perfect for: Short and long fingers, Wide palms

Flare = The Bold

If you’re looking for a nail shape that takes you out of your comfort zone, this is the shape for you! Flare nails, also known as duck feet nails, are bold and distinctive. Flare nails typically feature a wider base that gradually tapers out towards the tip, creating a flared-out effect that is wider than the nail bed itself. Depending on the length, some designs featuring a subtle flare, while others have a more pronounced and exaggerated shape. Flare nails allow for creativity in designs due to its unconventional and bold appearance. Perfect for: Short fingers, Wide palms

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UV vs LED Lamps

UV and LED/UV-LED lamps are the cornerstones of achieving impeccable gel manicures, making it crucial to grasp the fundamentals before navigating the choices between UV and LED/UV-LED lamps.

UV Lamps: Professionals have long favored UV lamps for their versatility and compatibility with various gel polishes. Emitting a broad spectrum of ultraviolet light, they offer a tried-and-true method for achieving flawless nails.

LED/UV-LED Lamps: In contrast, LED and UV-LED lamps utilize a more focused spectrum of light, gaining popularity for their efficiency and quick curing times. These modern counterparts are the go-to choice for those seeking a time-effective nail care routine.

Understanding the mechanisms behind each type is crucial for informed decisions regarding the curing process, energy efficiency, bulb longevity, and overall cost.

Advantages and Disadvantages

UV Lamps:

• Pros: UV lamps are compatible with various gel polishes, providing many options. Additionally, they offer a longer curing time, allowing for a meticulous and leisurely manicure.
• Cons: Some users perceive UV lamps as slower than their LED counterparts, and concerns about potentially higher energy consumption may arise.

LED/UV-LED Lamps:

• Pros: LED/UV-LED lamps shine efficiently, featuring faster curing times, significantly reducing the overall manicure duration. Recognized for energy efficiency and extended bulb life, they are a favorite for those prioritizing speed.
• Cons: Despite their advantages, these lamps may have limitations in gel polish compatibility, offering a narrower range compared to UV lamps.

Myths vs. Facts

Navigating the world of nail-curing lamps, let’s address a couple of common myths and set the record straight:

Myth: Nail Curing Lamps Cause Skin Cancer

Fact: Dermatological research indicates minimal UV exposure during a typical manicure session, posing no significant health risk. Following safety guidelines and precautions, such as wearing protective gloves, mitigates any potential risk.

Myth: All Gel Polishes Work with Every Lamp

Fact: While UV lamps are versatile, not all gel polishes work seamlessly with every lamp. LED/UV-LED lamps may have specific compatibility requirements. Checking the gel polish manufacturer’s recommendations ensures optimal curing results. By dispelling these myths, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of the safety and functionality of nail-curing lamps, enabling you to make informed decisions based on factual information.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right nail-curing lamp is a personalized decision influenced by various factors:

• Usage Frequency: Consider how often you plan to use the lamp. Avid at-home manicurists may opt for a longer curing time, while professionals might prioritize faster-curing lamps.
• Personal or Professional Use: Professional settings prioritize speed and efficiency. At the same time, at-home users may value compatibility with various gel polishes.
• Budget: Consider initial costs and long-term expenses. UV lamps may be budget-friendly, but LED/UV-LED lamps offer potential cost savings over time.
• Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines for safe use, ensuring optimal performance and the safety of your manicure experience. Look into a warranty for extra peace of mind.

By weighing these factors, you can confidently select a nail-curing lamp that meets your unique needs.

Alternatives and Future Innovations

While UV and LED/UV-LED lamps dominate the current nail curing scene, alternatives are emerging:

• Infrared Technology: Exploring the use of infrared technology for curing, offering a potential alternative without relying on UV or LED light.
• Air-Drying Systems: Eco-friendly options using air for curing, eliminating the need for external light sources.
• Gel Strips and Stickers: Convenient alternatives involving no curing time, akin to regular nail polish application.
• Spray-On Gel Polish: Innovative quick-dry spray transforming nail polish into a gel finish.

Gel vs. Nail Lacquer: The Best Choice for You

When it comes to manicures, the debate between gel and nail lacquer is as vibrant as the colors available. Each offers unique benefits and potential drawbacks, making the choice highly personal. 

Understanding Gel Manicures

Gel manicures are beloved for their durability and long-lasting shine. The process involves applying a gel-based polish cured under UV or LED light, creating a hard, glossy finish that resists chipping and fading.

Pros of Gel Manicures

• Durability: Gel nails can last up to three weeks without chipping, making them ideal for those with busy lifestyles.
• Instant Drying: Once cured under a lamp, gel polish completely dries, eliminating the risk of smudges.
• Protective Layer: The gel adds a protective layer to nails, benefiting weak or brittle nails.

Cons of Gel Manicures

• Removal Process: Gel polish requires soaking in acetone for removal, which can be time-consuming and potentially drying to the nails and surrounding skin.
• UV Exposure: Curing requires UV or LED light, raising concerns about prolonged exposure.
• Cost: Gel manicures typically cost more than traditional lacquer manicures, both in salons and with at-home kits.

Exploring Nail Lacquer

Nail lacquer, the traditional choice, is known for its straightforward application and wide range of colors and finishes. It’s applied like any other nail polish and air-dried.

Pros of Nail Lacquer

• Ease of Use: Lacquer is easy to apply and remove, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts.
• Affordability: Generally less expensive than gel polish, nail lacquer is accessible for regular use.
• Variety: Available in an extensive array of colors and finishes, allowing frequent changes to match any mood or occasion.

Cons of Nail Lacquer

• Durability: Lacquer is prone to chipping and wear, often requiring touch-ups or reapplication within a week.
• Drying Time: Traditional lacquers take time to dry completely, leading to smudges or dents if not careful.
• Less Protective: Lacquer doesn’t provide the same level of protection as gel, which may be a consideration for those with fragile nails.

Making Your Choice: Gel or Lacquer?

Choosing between gel and nail lacquer comes down to prioritizing what matters most to you in a manicure. If you value longevity and a protective finish and don’t mind the removal process, gel could be your go-to. It’s particularly suited for special occasions, extended wear, and those who don’t want to worry about frequent touch-ups. Conversely, if you enjoy changing your nail color often, prefer a budget-friendly option, or are concerned about using UV light and acetone, nail lacquer might be your best bet. It’s also the go-to for those who prefer a more traditional, straightforward nail care routine. Source

14 Ways to Make Nail Polish Dry Faster, According to the Pros

Riddle me this: What's worse than your manicure smudging before you even set foot outside the salon? Nothing, that's what. Okay, maybe that's dramatic. But we can all agree that messing up freshly painted nail polish is eye-roll-inducing at best? Fortunately for us, there are ways to avoid this manicure mishap—and we went to nail pros Amy Oung and Sarah Gibson Tuttle to find out exactly what they are. 

Keep reading to discover how to make your nail polish dry faster...

1.) Run Your Nails Under Cold Water

"Try running your hands under cold water, which will help speed up the dry time," says Gibson Tuttle. "I have no idea why this works, but it does." When implementing this trick, opt for a steady flow, not a heavy one. Super-fast water can lead to smudging.

2.) Paint Light, Thin Layers

"To ensure that nail polish dries quickly, avoid applying too thick of a layer," says Oung, who recommends applying as thin of a layer as possible and letting the first layer dry for about a minute before applying a second. She adds: "If you use a polish that does not require a top coat or base coat, like ORLY's Breathable lacquers, you are eliminating two layers from your manicure, which helps speed up the drying process."

Gibson Tuttle concurs: "Painting your nails using thinner layers will help them dry faster—even if you have to do another coat to get the opaqueness you want." To paint your thinnest layer, be conscious of how much polish is on your brush. Your best bet is to swirl it around the opening of the bottle to remove any excess lacquer before applying polish to your nails.

3.) Blast Your Wet Nails With Cold Air

"Whether you're at a salon or home, cold air from a fan or blow dryer will help the polish harden faster," Gibson Tuttle says. If you go the blow dryer route, make sure to press the cool shot button continuously while drying. Oung says forgetting to do so, and accidentally using warm air could actually melt your polish. "[Many] people use fans or blow dryers to speed up the drying process, and while it works by evaporating the solvents faster, you can run into bubbles forming in the polish," she warns.

4.) Hold Your Hands in the Freezer

If you hold your hands in the freezer for a minute or two, the cold air will help solidify the top layer of polish. Brrr, we know. But as much as we hate feeling cold, when it comes to our nails and the chance to keep them smudge-free before they're dry, we're willing to do what it takes.

5.) Try a Fast-Drying Nail Polish or Top Coat

Many brands have launched quick-dry polishes that require zero extra steps to speed up drying. We like Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Nail Color; simply paint it on and marvel at how dry your nails are by the time you finish. Or, try a quick-drying top coat, like Le Mini Macaron's Le Sweet Top Coat, which dries faster with sunlight. "This top coat deep dries lacquer layers and provides a very durable finish," says Oung.

6.) Choose Your Color Wisely

It may sound strange, but some nail polish colors really do dry faster than others. "If you're in a rush and need your nails to dry fast, reach for a sheer or metallic shade," Gibson Tuttle suggests. "They tend to dry faster and typically require fewer coats."

7.) Try Using Quick-Dry Drops

"If you're at a salon or have them at home, using quick-dry drops can help polish dry faster," Gibson Tuttle shares. OPI's Drip Dry Lacquer Drying Drops and ORLY's Flash Dry Drops are designed to dry nails in mere minutes. "These work best when you apply one drop to each nail one minute after applying your lacquer," says Oung. "They also help to prevent smudging. Dry drops work by absorbing solvents in nail lacquer, which helps speed up the drying process."

8.) Drip an Oil Onto Your Nails

Just like quick-dry drops, oil can help speed up drying. There's no real rhyme or reason why this works, but beauty lovers the world over swear by it in a crunch. And hey, if all else fails, at least your nails and cuticles will be moisturized.

9.) Soak Your Nails in Ice Water

Similar to holding your nails under running water or putting them in the freezer, when you soak them in a cup or bowl of ice water you'll see faster-drying fingertips. While it might seem like soaking freshly-painted nails in water would rinse the lacquer away, it actually shocks the color into place thanks to the temperature difference. Just be sure not to let your nails touch any ice cubes, as that would definitely dent or smudge the polish.

10.) Increase Your Wait Time Between Coats

"Waiting five to 10 minutes between coats makes a world of difference," says Gibson Tuttle. "It will decrease the chance of bubbles and dries faster, I swear." Of course, in the long run, that can take more time to actually finish painting. But you tell us: Are a few extra minutes between coats worth avoiding twice that time to fix smudges? We think so.

11.) Finish With a Spritz of Hairspray

Hairspray doesn't just hold intricate hairstyles in place—it can help dry nail polish quickly. Just remember: While a quick spritz will harden the top layer of polish, it doesn't work to dry the base layers below. You still don't want to get too aggressive with your nails for at least 30 minutes.

12.) Try the Cooking Spray Hack

If you've run out of hairspray, head to the kitchen for a bottle of cooking spray like PAM, an oil-based product that helps dry the top layer of nail polish in a cinch. (Though, as you might have guessed, it does leave fingers a bit greasy.)

13.) Use a Dedicated Nail-Drying Spray

As creative as some of these nail-drying hacks are, you can always play it safe with a product designed specifically for speeding up nail drying time, like OPI's RapiDry Spray Nail Polish Dryer. You'll still want to avoid bumps to stay dent-free while the base layers are hardening.

14.) Pass Time With Your Favorite Show or BFFs

"Okay, it won't help your nails dry more quickly, but it will make the time go by faster," Gibson Tuttle says. We like how she thinks. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your besties and kick off a DIY manicure party ASAP. Source

What To Know About Subtalar Joint Pain

The subtalar joint is a complex joint in the foot. It is vital for walking, and helps people balance on uneven or rough ground. Damage can result from wear and tear or injuries. It may cause pain and affect a person’s mobility or gait. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) describes the subtalar joint as the connection between the heel bone (the calcaneus) and the bone that forms the lower part of the ankle (the talus). The talus bone supports the weight of the tibia and fibula leg bones above.

The subtalar joint sits below the talus joint. It plays a major role in walking, as it allows the foot to roll inward and outward. This is particularly important when walking on uneven ground. A 2017 article explains that tendons and ligaments support the subtalar joint. Tendons are connective tissues that connect muscle to bone, while ligaments are connective tissues that connect bones to other bones. Damage to these connective tissues can cause the subtalar joint to become unstable and cause ankle injuries.

What causes subtalar joint pain?

Damage to the subtalar joint can occur for many reasons, including:

• Osteoarthritis: Also known as age-related or wear-and-tear arthritis.
• Autoimmune diseases: Examples include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• Sprains: These injuries involve stretching or tearing of ligaments.
• Strains: These injuries involve stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons.
• Fractures: According to the AAOS, a fractured talus bone causes pain in the subtalar joint.
• Dislocation: This injury involves bones popping or slipping out of alignment. According to a 2022 article, subtalar dislocations are rare and often result from:
• an automobile accident
• falling from a great height
• sports involving repeated jumping and landing, such as basketball

What are the symptoms of subtalar joint pain?

A 2017 article explains that people with damaged subtalar joints often experience pain on the sides of their feet, near to the heel. Usually, the pain is on the outside of the foot. However, it can occur on either or both sides.

Other symptoms of subtalar joint pain include:

• persistent pain in the lower part of the ankle, which typically worsens following physical activity or long periods of standing
• difficulty walking, particularly on slopes or uneven ground
• swelling

Without treatment, a damaged subtalar joint can cause permanent damage to the foot.

How is subtalar joint pain treated?

The treatment for subtalar joint pain depends on the underlying cause and include:

RICE

Other recommendations for treating foot or ankle sprains or strains at home include RICE, which stands for:

• Rest: Avoiding walking or putting weight on the sore foot.
• Ice: Applying a cool pack to the affected area to reduce inflammation. A person can apply the cool pack for up to 15 minutes every few hours until the swelling subsides.
• Compression: Bandaging the foot with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Keeping the foot elevated on pillows to reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), doctors may prescribe over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications to treat joint pain and inflammation due to arthritis. The CDC explains that studies have shown these medications to be more effective than opioids at reducing the severity of pain.

Orthotics

A 2018 review article suggests that orthotics or ankle braces can reduce subtalar pain by supporting the hindfoot. If a person has arthritis around the subtalar joint, a foot orthotic may help keep the heel and hindfoot properly aligned. A podiatrist can look at a person’s standing stance and check their gait while they walk. They can then make recommendations about the most suitable orthotics.

Surgery

Some people may require surgery if they have fractured or dislocated the subtalar joint. According to a 2022 review article, there are some surgical options, including fusing the joint. A 2019 study describes subtalar fusion surgery as the gold standard treatment for severe cases. This procedure involves inserting parallel screws through the talus and calcaneus bones to stabilize the joint.

However, an article in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine advises trying nonsurgical treatments for at least 3 months before considering surgery. Physical therapy may help reduce pain, improve range of motion, decrease stiffness, and maintain flexibility.

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What to Do for Sore Feet

Many of us find that our feet start to ache after a long day at work or at the end of a grueling workout.

In most cases, the pain may subside after a good night’s rest. At other times, the soreness may linger. It’s been estimated that 77% of Americans experience foot pain. The problem is common in people who spend long hours on their feet at work, such as nurses. Foot pain may also become more frequent as we get older or in people with certain medical conditions.  Fortunately, there are many easy things you can do to ease your feet and enjoy greater comfort. 

Here’s what you need to know about the causes of foot pain, what to do about it and when to check with your doctor;

Causes of Foot Pain

A number of activities can make your feet hurt, such as standing or walking for extended periods of time, especially on hard surfaces. Prolonged exercise or sports competition can also cause foot swelling and soreness. 

Ill-fitting shoes are another common culprit. Shoes that are too loose or too tight can cause blisters and muscle strain. A toe box that’s too narrow can hurt your toes, and high heels can strain your Achilles tendon.  If you are overweight or obese, excess weight may put more strain on the ligaments and joints in your feet. Arthritis, which often develops as we age, may make walking less comfortable over time. People with diabetes are at risk of painful foot problems. Finally, hormonal changes during pregnancy may weaken the ligaments in your feet and contribute to increased soreness. 

At-Home Care for Foot Pain

Here are several easy ways to keep your feet comfortable and reduce pain;

Choose the Right Footwear

This is your first step on the road to happy feet...

Always wear shoes that fit comfortably and that are appropriate for the activity you’re engaged in. A good pair of shoes will have good arch support and cushioning. Wear foot pads if necessary to prevent rubbing and irritation. Your toes should have room to move around and the balls of your feet should be well supported. Wear sneakers for walking and replace them as needed. 

Exercise Safely

When you exercise, always warm up and cool down. Stretch at the beginning and end of your workout. You can reduce the risk of foot injury by stretching your Achilles tendon and the bottom of your feet. If you’re a beginner, gradually increase the amount of exercise you do to let your body adjust. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the strain on your feet and legs. 

There are several exercises anyone can do that will keep your feet healthy and reduce pain. Try picking up and moving small objects with your toes. Roll the bottom of your foot on a tennis ball, golf ball or water bottle. Gently pump your ankles, moving your feet up and down. To strengthen your feet and calves, rise up on your toes, lifting your heels off the ground. 

Treatments Foot Soreness at Home

If your feet are sore at the end of the day, treat yourself to a warm foot bath. Add about 1 or 2 tablespoons of epsom salts to a gallon of warm water for extra relief. Dry your feet and elevate them. 

After soaking, use a pumice stone or emery board to smooth out calluses, corns and rough skin. Apply a soothing foot cream and put on socks to lock in moisture. 

Perform gentle stretches to relieve pain and muscle spasms. Sit comfortably as you gently rotate your ankles and toes in a circle. Do a runners’ stretch to ease tight calf muscles. 

Massage your feet to soothe irritated muscles. Gently press on sore areas, and use oil or cream if desired. Pay special attention to the plantar fascia, which is the band of muscle that runs between the ball of your foot and the heel. 

If your feet are sore after a long day or exercise, apply an ice pack to relieve pain and swelling. Elevate your feet and limit activity until the pain subsides. If needed, use an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. 

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The Benefits of Foot Exfoliation

What is Exfoliation?

Exfoliation is defined as the process by which you remove dead skin from feet. Exfoliation can happen in two ways: mechanical and chemical. Chemical exfoliation occurs when things like citric acid, fruit enzymes, and salicylic acid are used to remove dead skin from your face or feet. This is most commonly found in things like face scrubs and foot peels. Mechanical exfoliation occurs when using things like a pumice stone to scrub away dead skin manually. In summation, the purpose of exfoliation is to remove unwanted dead skin to reveal healthy, beautiful skin underneath.

Here are four important reasons why you should regularly exfoliate your feet:

1. Keep your feet healthy

When dead skin begins to build up on your feet, it’s common to suffer from painful calluses. Additionally, because dead skin clogs the pores on your feet, it’s increasingly likely that your feet could become infected. Using an exfoliating foot peel or some other method of foot exfoliation to protect your feet from these health complications.

2. Make your feet feel soft and beautiful

If you feel self-conscious about the way your feet look, regular foot exfoliation can help. When the dead skin on your feet has been removed, you’re left with smooth, healthy feet you can show off proudly.

3. Treat & prevent painful cracked skin on your feet

When dead skin accumulates on your feet, your skin is more likely to crack. This can be extremely painful and, in some circumstances, become infected. Exfoliating the skin on your feet regularly can help prevent them from becoming dry and cracked.

4. Feel more confident

Exfoliating your feet helps you to feel confident and beautiful in all aspects of your life. You no longer have to feel like you need to hide your feet. Embrace this new you! Wear sandals or go barefoot without hesitation. Source

How to Get Long-Lasting Nails Using Dazzle Dry’s 4-Step Nail System

 

 

Dazzle Dry was created to give YOU beautiful nails in an amazing new way using an unrivaled, performance-based polish system specifically designed for natural nails. Dazzle Dry is Award-winning and renowned as the best-in-class nail care system in the industry.

In this video, we will tell you why Dazzle Dry was started and how it works to give you AMAZING long-lasting, chip-free nails. We will take you through all four steps of the nail system—it's super easy and not complex at all. The entire process should only take you around 30 MINUTES! By the end of this video, you will be a Dazzle Dry aficionado and will be able to give yourself some self-love and a perfect at-home manicure or pedicure.

Skin & Nail Changes Associated with Diabetes

Diabetes has a significant impact on the skin of the feet and lower legs making regular pedicures a necessity.  Unfortunately, a diabetic shouldn’t walk into just any salon and get any pedicure. Why? Because diabetics suffer from many complex issues that make the feet more susceptible to damage and infection. Brittle nails, cracked heels and scaling skin.   The condition of our skin and nails can reveal a lot of secrets about our health.  Changes to nail texture and thickness, or even skin elasticity can signal systemic medical conditions before other symptoms appear.  When you have a chronic disease such as diabetes, it is important to pay attention to the health of your skin and nails.  

Nail Health & Diabetes

In some people with diabetes, the nails take on a yellowish hue and become brittle. This is often associated with the breakdown of sugar and its effect on the collagen in nails. In certain cases, this yellowing of nails can be a sign of a nail infection. People with diabetes are more likely than those without diabetes to get a fungal infection in the nails which called onychomycosis. The thickening of the nails which goes along with fungal nails can make it harder and more painful to walk.  Thickened nails are also sharper than usual and can dig into the skin of the feet, putting the individual at risk for a break in the skin.  

Proper care of the nails in a diabetic includes frequent trimming of the nails, early management of fungal infections with products such as the Footlogix Nail Tincture Spray and diabetic education of the risks of infection if the nails are neglected. 

Skin Health & Diabetes

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and is packed with nerves and blood vessels that allow us to sense touch, temperature, pain, and pressure.   Diabetes can affect the nerves and blood vessels in your body, including those in your skin.   When diabetes affects the skin, it is often a sign that blood sugar levels are too high.   Some of the most common skin changes seen in the feet and lower legs include:   diabetic dermopathy (small, round brownish patches, usually on the shins), diabetic blisters, eruptive xanthomatosis (condition caused by excessively high lipids in the blood), fungal infections and dry itchy skin.

In addition to the management of blood sugar levels, skin health in a diabetic includes immediate care of any breaks in the skin. Look for hydrating products that are absorbed into the skin quickly and contain urea, which locks in moisture.  Footlogix DD Cream Mousse and Footlogix Very Dry Skin Formula is ideal for diabetics and seniors, as well as people with sensitive skin. Despite these risks, diabetics can (and should!) get regular pedicures to maintain foot health and prevent future skin issues. The key is providing the right pedicure treatment using diabetic-safe products and educated technicians.

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Caring for Dry, Cracked Heels and Feet

Do you have dry, cracked heels and feet? If so, you’re not alone. According to a National Foot Health Assessment, 20% of adults in America have experienced cracked skin on their feet. At first, this may be nothing but a nuisance and look unattractive, but when cracks in the skin become too deep, they can become irritated and painful. Thankfully, there are effective ways to soothe dry, cracked feet and help prevent the problem in the first place.

What causes cracked heels?

Factors like pressure from standing, wearing ill-fitting shoes, reduced skin elasticity as we age, and exposing bare feet or parts of the feet to the elements can all contribute to developing dry skin. Additionally, the soles of our feet don’t have any oil glands. This leaves our feet without a natural moisture barrier to protect them and makes them more prone to drying out and cracking.

The soles of the feet don’t have oil glands and rely on sweat for lubrication. This leaves your feet without a natural moisture barrier to protect them from the elements.

Here are some common reasons why the skin on your feet may dry out and begin to crack:

• Pressure; Standing or wearing ill-fitting footwear for long periods of time can put intense pressure on your feet. When skin is dry and tight and pressure is applied, this can lead to cracking. 
• Friction; In addition to being a risk for blisters, friction from loose shoes, straps on sandals, or even just the way our feet land when we walk can thicken the skin into dry calluses and can lead to cracking.
• Exposing skin; Going barefoot or wearing sandals can leave your feet unprotected from the drying effects of the environment. Cold, dry air and soil can sap moisture from the skin, and shoes like open-back sandals remove support from your heel’s fat pad, allowing the skin of your heel to expand which can increase the likelihood of cracking.
• Long, hot showers or baths; While it may feel soothing in the moment, having a long, hot shower or bath, particularly if using harsh soaps, can dry out the skin on the feet. Prolonged exposure to hot water strips skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, and harsh soaps can damage the natural skin barrier, further encouraging moisture loss.
• Aging; As we age, skin loses some of its elasticity and oil production, leaving skin less supple. This, combined with the bottoms of the feet already not having oil glands, makes heels and soles of the feet particularly prone to dryness and cracking as we age.
• A health condition; Severely dry skin or cracked heels can sometimes be caused by an underlying health condition like psoriasis, athlete’s foot, malnutrition or diabetes. 

If you are concerned or suspect that an underlying health condition may be contributing to your cracked heels, please be sure to see a healthcare practitioner for further guidance. 

How to help soothe cracked heels

When it comes to soothing cracked heels, it’s about protecting the exposed skin, closing the cracks as well as reducing the thick skin surrounding them. Constant care through a combination of exfoliation and moisturization is key. 

Here are some ways to help soothe dry, cracked feet following the soak-and-seal method: 

1.) Soak feet to soften the skin 

When preparing to exfoliate and moisturize your feet, soften thick, dry skin by soaking your feet in lukewarm water with mild soap for up to 20 minutes.

2.) Exfoliate dry, thickened skin on heels and feet 

After soaking, gently exfoliate with a pumice stone, loofah, or foot scrubber. This is important, as cracks in the skin can recur if the excess of calloused skin is not removed, but you want to make sure to exfoliate gently and work at it over time. If you exfoliate too much, and your skin becomes inflamed or painful, stop and contact a medical professional for further guidance. 

3.) Moisturize and protect your feet to encourage healing 

After you’ve soaked and scrubbed your feet, gently pat your feet dry with a clean, soft towel, and apply a moisturizing skin protectant like Aquaphor Healing Ointment®. Aquaphor Healing Ointment® is uniquely formulated to restore smooth, healthy skin and it creates an ideal healing environment by protecting the skin and allowing oxygen to reach the skin, while sealing in moisture.  

4.) Keep feet covered and protected 

After applying the ointment, be sure to put on wool or 100% cotton socks to help keep the ointment in place, and so you don’t slip.

How to help prevent heels from cracking...

Once you’ve helped your cracked heels and feet and have softer, healthier-looking skin, you want to make sure your skin stays that way! Here are some ways you can reduce the likelihood of developing cracked heels and dry skin on the feet: 

• Limit bathing to 5-10 minutes and use warm (not hot) water and mild cleansers. 
• Wear socks, especially in colder weather to protect your feet from exposure to cold, dry air. 
• Wear proper-fitting, cushioned, supportive shoes with comfortable socks as opposed to sandals or open-back shoes. 
• Regularly moisturize skin, particularly while skin is still damp after bathing, and overnight. Aquaphor® Foot Masks offer a hydrating foot care treatment for dry and rough feet and help to restore smooth skin on the foot and heels.  
• Cover feet after moisturizing so you don’t slip. 
• Stay hydrated. Dehydration depletes your body (including your feet) of much needed water. Help moisturize from the inside out. Source