History Of A Pedicure

 

Pedicures have been around for thousands of years, and their origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China, and India. In fact, the word "pedicure" comes from the Latin words "pes" and "cura," which mean "foot" and "care," respectively.

In ancient Egypt, pedicures were a symbol of wealth and status, and both men and women would use henna to color their nails. Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancient Egyptians used pumice stones to remove calluses, and they also used oils and creams to keep their feet soft and supple.

In China, pedicures were popular among the upper classes, and it was believed that regular foot care was essential for overall health and well-being. Chinese pedicurists would use special tools to massage and manipulate the feet, which was thought to improve circulation and energy flow.

In India, pedicures were a part of traditional Ayurvedic medicine, and they were believed to help balance the body's doshas (energies). Indian pedicurists would use herbal remedies to soothe and heal the feet, and they would also apply henna to the nails for cosmetic purposes.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, pedicures fell out of favor, and foot care was often neglected. However, by the 19th century, pedicures had become popular again, and women would visit salons to have their feet soaked in warm water and then massaged with oils and creams.

In the United States, the modern pedicure industry began to take shape in the 20th century, and by the 1950s, it had become a popular beauty treatment. Today, pedicures are enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and they are available at salons and spas around the world.

Overall, the history of pedicures reflects the human desire for self-care and personal grooming, and the ancient practices and traditions have influenced the modern-day industry in many ways. While the tools and techniques have evolved over time, the fundamental goal of pedicures remains the same: to promote foot health, comfort, and beauty. Article

What Is Our Essential Manicure Service?

Because healthy nails never go out of style.

The Essential Manicure is all about enhancing the beauty of your natural nails through detailed, intentional care. If you’re looking for a clean, polished look without acrylics or gel, this service was created with you in mind.

Each appointment includes nail shaping, cuticle maintenance, moment of hydration, and your choice of Dazzle Dry polish or a natural finish. Every step is performed with attention to detail to help keep your hands looking their best.

The Essential Manicure is ideal for:

•  Those who value healthy, natural nails.
•  Professionals who want a polished appearance.
•  Clients who enjoy routine self-care.
•  Anyone wanting to improve the overall appearance of their hands and nails.
•  Those seeking a quiet, one-on-one experience.

Your hands tell a story. They work hard every day, and they deserve the same level of care we often give our feet.

At UpKept, I specialize in natural nail care. No artificial enhancements—just thoughtful maintenance that helps you enjoy healthy, beautiful nails.

Book your appointment today!

Soleful Escape - 30-Minute Foot & Leg Massage

Because sometimes your feet don’t need a pedicure—they just need a break.

The Soleful Escape is a dedicated 30-minute foot and leg massage designed to help you slow down, relax, and give your hardworking feet the attention they deserve.
Whether you’ve been standing all day, exercising, chasing kids or grandkids, or simply feeling the effects of everyday life, this service offers 30 uninterrupted minutes focused entirely on comfort and relaxation.
Your massage includes nourishing moisturizer and gentle massage techniques that help soothe tired feet and lower legs, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of your day.

The Soleful Escape is perfect for:

• Anyone with tired, overworked feet.

• Those who spend long hours standing or walking.

• Active individuals looking to unwind.

• Busy professionals and caregivers.

• Anyone who deserves a little time dedicated entirely to themselves.

Sometimes the best form of self-care is simply pressing pause.

At UpKept, every appointment is private and one-on-one, creating a quiet space where you can truly relax without distractions.

Book your appointment today!!!

How To Get Rid Of Stinky Feet?

Bromodosis, or smelly feet, is a very common medical condition. It’s due to a buildup of sweat, which results bacteria growth on the skin. These bacteria cause bad odors. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can also lead to bromodosis.

Home treatments for smelly feet and how to keep your feet clean and neat...

• Use a mild soap and scrub brush to wash your feet at least once a day. The best time to do this is during your morning or evening shower. It’s important to dry your feet completely after washing. Pay special attention between your toes, where any wetness can easily cause bacteria to grow.
• Clip your toenails often so they’re short, and make sure to clean them regularly.
• Remove the hard, dead skin from your feet with a foot file. Hard skin gets soggy and soft when it’s wet, creating a place where bacteria like to live.
• Change your socks at least once a day. If you’re in a hot environment, exercising, or in any other situation where your feet may become sweaty, you should change your socks more often.
• Have two pairs of shoes that you alternate wearing every other day. This allows each pair to thoroughly dry out from sweat or moisture for a full day before being worn again. You can remove the insoles in your shoes to help them dry again. Wet shoes allow bacteria to grow on your feet more quickly.
• Choose socks that absorb moisture rather than keep it on your feet. These include thick, soft socks made out of natural fibers or sports socks.
• Wear open-toed sandals in warm weather, and go barefoot indoors when appropriate to allow your feet to stay dry.
• Avoid shoes that are tight or may retain moisture.
• Use a cotton ball to apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to your feet every night. This will help to dry out your feet. Avoid applying it to any cracks in your skin.
• Apply an antifungal foot spray or medicated foot powder on your feet once daily.
• Insert medicated deodorant insoles into your shoes.
• If you need to quickly cut down on your foot odor, it’s safe to apply antiperspirant or deodorant spray to your feet.
• Try various types of antifungal and antibacterial soaps until you find one that works best for you.
• Make your own foot soak using Listerine or vinegar. 

Home treatments will normally do a good job of helping to reduce or eliminate your foot odor. However, if home treatments don’t help alleviate your bromodosis, or if you’re concerned that the sweating and odors are severe, you should see your doctor. They may prescribe stronger antiperspirants and foot soaps, and can offer advice on medical treatments for excessive sweating (hyperhydrosis).

What causes smelly feet?

Your feet produce a lot of sweat. They have more sweat glands than any other part of the body. These glands release sweat all throughout the day to help cool your body and keep your skin moist.

Everyone’s feet sweat, but teenagers and pregnant women are most prone to very sweaty feet because their bodies produce hormones that make them sweat more. People who are on their feet all day at work, are under a lot of stress, or have a medical condition that makes them sweat more than others tend to have sweatier feet.

There are naturally some bacteria on the feet. These bacteria help break down sweat on the feet as it’s released. If bacteria and sweat build up, a foul odor can form. Extra bacteria tend to form when a person sweats in their shoes, takes them off, and then puts them back on without allowing them to fully dry.

Poor hygiene can also play a role in causing bromodosis. Infrequent foot washing or not changing your socks at least once a day can allow extra bacteria to begin to grow on your feet. This can cause foot odor to worsen.

Although it’s a common condition, bromodosis can make you feel self-conscious. The good news is that bromodosis is quite simple to treat. With daily attention, you should be able to reduce or eliminate your foot odor within a week.

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The Role Of Cuticle Care

A manicure is a beauty treatment for the hands and nails that includes shaping, filing, and painting the nails. One essential element of a manicure that is often overlooked is cuticle care. The cuticles are the thin layers of skin that surround the base of the nail, and they play a vital role in protecting the nail bed from infection and bacteria. Therefore, cuticle care is a crucial aspect of a proper manicure. 

The cuticles act as a barrier between the nail and the surrounding skin, which makes them an essential component of healthy nail growth. However, they are prone to dryness, cracking, and other issues that can cause them to become rough and unsightly. Neglecting cuticle care can lead to hangnails, infections, and other problems that can affect the overall health of the nails. Avoid picking at your cuticle. If you have a hangnail, carefully remove it with tweezers or clippers, instead of ripping it out or biting it off.

To properly care for the cuticles during a manicure, there are a few steps that should be followed. First, the cuticles should be softened by soaking the hands in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. This helps to hydrate the cuticles and make them more pliable, which makes them easier to push back.

Next, a cuticle pusher can be used to gently push the cuticles back. It is important to be gentle and not push too hard or too far back, as this can damage the delicate skin and lead to pain and bleeding.

Once the cuticles have been pushed back, any excess skin can be carefully trimmed using a cuticle nipper. It is important to only remove the dead skin and not to cut live tissue, as this can lead to infection and other issues.

After the cuticles have been cared for, a moisturizing cuticle oil can be applied to help hydrate and nourish the skin. This helps to prevent dryness and cracking, which can lead to hangnails and other problems.

Cuticle care is an essential part of a proper manicure. Neglecting this aspect of the treatment can lead to unsightly and painful issues, such as hangnails and infections. By following the steps outlined above, you can properly care for your cuticles and promote healthy nail growth.

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How To Make Nail Polish Last Longer

 

Megan gives 4 great tips to keep your nail polish looking great and last longer.  

Check us out at https://stayupkept.com

12 Tips for Stronger Nails

The good news is that we can always make changes to our lifestyle and habits to help strengthen our nails and get them where we’d like.

Here are 12 tips that you can use to help strengthen your nails in no time;

1. Take a biotin supplement

Biotin, also known as vitamin H and vitamin B7, is one of the B vitamins. Because it’s water-soluble, it isn’t stored by the body, so you have to ensure that you consume it daily.

Biotin can help strengthen hair and nails. It also helps the body’s nervous system to function properly.

It can be found in foods like sardines, cooked eggs, and legumes, or you can take a B vitamin supplement.

2. Minimize exposure to water

Too much soaking in water can cause your nails to become weak and brittle. Wear gloves when washing dishes, and try to keep your hands out of the water while taking a bath.

It’s impossible to always avoid submerging your hands, of course, but this is something to be mindful of.

3. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential for health, and nail health is no exception. Without adequate moisture, nails can become brittle and break and peel easily. Drinking enough water helps them to retain moisture and stay strong.

4. Pay attention to your diet

Make sure you’re eating a nutrient-dense and varied diet, as well as taking a multivitamin with minerals. A diet that’s deficient in crucial vitamins and minerals can affect your entire body — including your nails.

5. Be careful about the products you use

• Nail polish and remover

Many nail polishes or treatments contain harsh chemicals that can actually weaken nails. Nail polish remover that contains acetone should be avoided since it can damage nails.

Look for nontoxic nail polishes and soaks as well as an acetone-free polish remover.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source warns against other potentially harmful chemicals found in everyday nail care products.

• Hand sanitizer and cleaning products

If you use hand sanitizer, try not to get it on your nails, and use it in moderation. The alcohol-based sanitizer dries out nails (and hands), leading to brittle nails.

When cleaning around the house, wear rubber gloves. Many cleaning products or cleaning wipes contain chemicals that can weaken the nail. Gloves help you to avoid contact with these chemicals.

• Shampoo

If you’re using a shampoo that is drying or aims to strip oils (that is, meant for oily hair), it might dry out your nails and cause weak or brittle nails.

Try changing your shampoo for a couple of weeks and see whether you notice a difference.

6. Avoid using gel or acrylic nails, if possible

While these are touted as an easy alternative for those who have trouble growing their nails, frequent use can cause your nails to peel, which weakens them. But if you’d still like to wear them, be sure to give your nails a break in between applications.

Exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) light required for gel polish has been identified as a risk factor for cancer, although more researchTrusted Source is needed.

Exposure also ages the skin that supports a healthy nail. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying sunscreen to your hands at least 20 minutes before your hands are exposed to UV light.

7. Give your nails a break from polish

Along those same lines, although nail polish looks nice, your nails need to breathe. Constant use of polish, even nontoxic polish, can weaken the nail.

After wearing nail polish for a week or so, remove the nail polish with an acetone-free polish remover, and then let your nails be polish-free for a week.

8. Keep your nails on the shorter side

Long nails are more likely to break and be caught on things, while shorter nails are less likely to be chipped, cracked, or split, helping to keep them strong.

9. Don’t use your nails as a tool

Instead, use the pads of your fingers to open up a soda can or use a paper clip to reach something in a small space. Using your nails as tools can lead to breakage and chipping, which can in turn weaken the nail

10. Use lotion on your nails

After removing polish, or if you think you’re not hydrated enough, use hand cream on your hands, making sure to moisturize your nails. You can do this every time you wash your hands.

11. Change how you file your nails

Filing your nails in a back-and-forth motion like a saw can actually weaken your nails. Instead, file them in one direction.

Also, go easy on the sides of the nails since filing too much there can weaken the nail.

12. Talk with your doctor

If you’ve tried multiple things for several weeks and haven’t noticed any change in your nails, see a dermatologist or another skin care professional. They can take a look at your nails and ask you questions about your routine and overall health.

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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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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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Happy Independence Day!

 

Happy Independence Day!

UpKept

536 Main St.

Vacaville CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

707-208-7646

Why It's Important to Wear the Right Shoe Size

According to a 2018 study, only about 28 to 37% of people are actually wearing shoes of the right length and width.

Several studies have now demonstrated how ill-fitting shoes can have a negative effect on health and why well-fitting shoes are so important.

Peripheral neuropathy is a painful and usually irreversible condition with symptoms of pins and needles in the feet and a decreased ability to feel where the feet are in space.

A 2017 study found that, among older adults with a history of foot lesions, such as corns and calluses, only 14% were wearing the right size shoes. Thirty seven percent of the population reported evidence of neuropathy; tight-fitting shoes can worsen the symptoms of neuropathy by putting pressure on the nerves and potentially causing wounds and ulcers due to a lack of sensation from friction and pressure.

Foot Pain and Deformities

A 2018 scientific review of 18 studies looking at shoes and foot problems found that poorly-fitting shoes were associated with foot pain and foot conditions, such as lesser toe deformity (hammer toe), corns, and calluses. Notably, people with diabetes tended to wear shoes that were too narrow.

It's not just shoes that are too tight that can lead to pain and deformity. In some cases, the shape of the shoe may not be a good fit to contour to the shape of your foot. If you already have a foot deformity of some kind, for example, shoes with a smooth shape that causes pressure on the irregularly-shaped bony areas of your foot can make it worse.

Ingrown Toenails

If your shoes are too narrow or short, the extra pressure placed on your toe can lead to the edge of a toenail growing into your skin. Ingrown toenails can cause pain and the skin around your nail to become red or infected.

Ingrown toenails are most common on the big toe, but can also occur on other toes. To avoid this issue, ensure that you have properly fitting shoes and are not cutting your nails too short or rounded at the edges.

Decreased Quality of Life

If your shoes are constantly hurting your feet, the rest of your life is bound to suffer for it. According to one study, women in particular noted that foot symptoms negatively affected their quality of life.4 This is likely because women's shoes are often not designed to be as functional or comfortable as men's shoes.

In addition, foot pain and foot conditions related to poor-fitting shoes can lead to falls, reduced mobility, and related loss of independence in older adults.

Shoe Size Changes

Many often think of foot size as being static; once you reach age 18, or at least when you stop growing, your feet no longer change in size. But your feet change in many ways over the course of a lifetime:

• As you age, tendons relax and your feet can naturally widen.
• Certain medical conditions and medications cause water retention, which can cause foot swelling (and, therefore, size difference).
• During pregnancy, feet are affected by hormones that often result in an increase in shoe size.
• Even in younger people, feet swell slightly by the end of the day. They also swell when engaging in an upright activity such as walking, running, or playing sports.

While your shoes may fit right in the morning or before your workout, they may be too tight later in the day. Even people who wear "sensible" shoes can experience problems with fit. For this reason, it's best to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen.

Signs Your Shoes Are the Wrong Size

Pain and discomfort are some obvious signs that your shoes are the wrong size, but sometimes that is less clear. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to check your shoe size:

• Bruising on your toenail:
• Toenail loss or damage
• Blisters
• Calluses
• Skin irritation around your toenails

You can visit a shoe store to be properly measured. There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the ideal frequency of foot measurements. Some experts recommend that you measure your feet at least once or twice a year, or at least any time you buy new shoes.

In general, buying shoes with a toe box made of soft, expansive material is always a better choice than those made of a hard material.

It is also worth noting that not every brand of shoes has the same fit, regardless of size. For example, a size 8 in one brand may feel more like a size 7.5 in another. If possible, try on before you buy.

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