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If you know you love a certain day or time, booking ahead is the best way to stay consistent with your nail and foot care routine. 

Saturdays and evening spots especially tend to fill quickly since I work one-on-one and by appointment only.

Whether you come every 4 weeks, 6 weeks, or seasonally, planning ahead helps make sure you get the times that work best for you — without the stress of searching last minute.

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Thick Toenail: Fungus or Trauma? How to Tell the Difference

Many people assume any thick or discolored nail must be fungus. In reality, trauma and pressure are often the real cause. Here are some simple patterns that can help you tell the difference.

Signs Thick Toenails May Be Fungus

• More than one nail is affected, often on both feet
• The nail may crumble at the edges
• There are white, yellow, or brown patches that change over time
• The nail has a soft, spongy, or chalky texture
• There may be a musty odor
• Changes gradually spread to other nails

Signs Thick Toenails May Be Trauma

• Only one or two nails are affected
• The nail is very hard, dense, or “shell-like”
• There is a history of injury, pressure, or tight shoes
• The nail may grow upward or sideways instead of flat
• The change stays localized rather than spreading

Trauma is far more common than fungus. Most toenails people assume are fungus are actually long-term pressure or injury. Understanding this difference can help you choose a realistic care plan. Source

7 Pedicure Safety Tips for People With Diabetes

The forecast calls for sunny weather. You want to slip into sandals or open toe-shoes, but your feet have to look their best. A pedicure is an option. But if you have type 2 diabetes, a pedicure comes with some risks. One is the risk of infection from a poorly sterilized pedicure tool or a cut. Infection can raise your blood sugar levels, interfere with proper healing and put you at risk of more serious complications like ulcers and even amputation.

So before scheduling a visit to the nail salon, check with your physician to make sure it’s okay to get a pedicure.

“People with poorly-controlled diabetes can develop foot problems, such as decreased circulation or nerve damage, which can lead to serious complications,” says Athena Philis-Tsimikas, MD, a clinical endocrinologist and vice president of Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute.

“Poor circulation can make your feet less able to fight infection. Nerve damage can cause loss of feeling, so if you injure your foot, you may not know it,” says Dr. Tsimikas said. “This makes cuts and nicks in the nail salon something you really want to avoid if you have diabetes.”

If given the green light for a pedicure, stick to a few basic precautions that can significantly reduce your risk of infection and lead to a safer, more pleasant experience.

Doctor-approved foot care tips

Follow these tips if you have type 2 diabetes and are considering getting a pedicure...

1. Know when to skip a pedicure

If you currently have any infections, cuts, or open sores on your legs, feet, or toenails, avoid the salon and the many risks. This applies also if you have neuropathy, which is a type of nerve damage that can occur with diabetes.

Instead, contact your physician for a referral to a podiatrist or other specialist who is medically trained to care for your feet.

2. Avoid shaving your legs for a day or two before your pedicure

Shaving can leave tiny nicks in your skin and increase the risk of infection. If you have neuropathy, it can lead to a loss of sensation to the affected areas. Without the ability to feel pain, people with diabetic neuropathy can allow small cuts or blisters on their feet to fester into larger sores or ulcers which can become infected.

3. Find a salon that is clean and practices impeccable sanitation

Tell the manager you have diabetes and inquire about their sterilization procedures. Reputable salons will work with you and show you how they operate.

Foot baths should be cleaned and disinfected between customers. Clippers and other tools should be washed and sanitized in a disinfecting solution or a surgical autoclave, which uses pressurized steam to sterilize instruments.

4. Bring your own nail kit

Play it safe and bring your own pedicure tools if possible.

5. Mention you have diabetes before the pedicure begins

Ask the technician to avoid doing anything that can scratch or injure the skin. Speak up if you don’t like what the technician is doing.

6. Bring up protective practices

Ask the technician not to cut your nails too short, as this can encourage ingrown toenails and lead to infection. Make sure toenail edges are not sharp; they should be rounded off with a file.

7. Skip any services that can injure the skin

Never allow the technician to cut your cuticles or use any sharp instruments on your skin or under your toenails. Instead, after your feet have been soaking for a few minutes and the skin around your toes is soft, cuticles can be gently pushed back with an orange stick, which is the thin stick, typically made of orange wood that is used for manicuring.

After your pedicure is finished, keep an eye on your feet and legs for any signs of redness or infection. If you notice anything unusual, call your doctor right away.

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How Often Should You Get A Manicure?

Getting a manicure is one of the best ways to spoil yourself. It can make you feel instantly better, not to mention those glamorous new nails that you will get to wear for the next couple of weeks. But how often can you get a mani done? Are there any considerations to take into account?

So, how often should you get a manicure? You can look to have a professional manicure once every 1-2 weeks, although the frequency will depend on what you want done, your personal preferences and your budget. If you want pristine nails with no chips and want to keep them slightly longer, a professional manicure done once per week is advised. Alternatively, if you want shorter nails where you are able to touch them up yourself, a professional manicure every two weeks makes sense.

Either way the quicker your nails grow and the more you use your hands, the more they will require a manicure.

And while you certainly can do your own manicure at home, out of time, convenience and effort alone, going to the salon usually makes more sense.

Besides, they have all of the best tools and the expertise to give you the style and look you truly want.

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Happy Mothers Day!

 

Happy Mothers Day to all the mothers of the world in every form. 

You make the world go round!

Thank you for all you do!

UpKept Nail Spa

536 Main Street

Vacaville, CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

Tel: 707.208.7646

What Causes an Ingrown Nail?

An ingrown nail occurs when the corner or side of the fingernail curves downward and the nail begins to grow into the skin. Ingrown nails can become red, swollen, and painful. They may even get infected. This is a common problem, and it can be extremely unpleasant, particularly if you have an ingrown nail on a finger that you use often for tasks like typing.

Understanding what causes ingrown nails is the first step toward preventing them. In some cases, you can stop ingrown nails at the source. If you can’t prevent the ingrown nail entirely, you can help resolve the problem more quickly with a prompt diagnosis and early home remedies. 

Improper Nail Trimming

You should trim your nails straight across to keep them from becoming ingrown. If you must shape your nails, allow the nail to at least grow straight out until it’s past the folds of skin on either side of the finger. Beyond this point, it’s safer to shape your nails. Allow the nail to grow long enough to cover the tip of your finger. If you cut your nails too short, it’s easier for them to grow in the wrong direction or become infected.

Keep your fingernails clean and dry as much as possible. When you’re trimming your nails, take the time to gently clean beneath them as well. This will help clear out bacteria that can lurk there, waiting to cause an infection.

Nail Biting

Nail biting damages the shape and condition of the fingernails, increasing the likelihood of an ingrown nail. Your mouth may also carry bacteria that will increase the risk of infection should your nail become ingrown. People often bite their nails when they’re struggling with anxiety or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Addressing the underlying cause of your nail biting can help you understand how to quit. You can also try using bitter polish on your nails or wearing gloves to help you become more aware of your habit and make a mindful effort to stop it.

Finger Injury

If you’ve slammed your finger in a door or smashed it with a hammer, you may suffer more than just the initial pain. Certain finger injuries can temporarily change the shape of the nail and lead to an ingrown fingernail. If you’ve sustained this type of injury and suspect an ingrown nail is developing, start soaking the nail in warm water two or three times a day. This can help prevent an ingrown nail from forming.

Frequent Pressure

Ingrown nails are often related to the individual’s occupation. If you routinely engage in an activity that puts pressure on the nail, it’s more likely to curve unnaturally and become ingrown. For example, writing with a pen or pencil resting on or near the nail can reshape that nail and cause it to grow down into the skin. Typing, cutting vegetables, using certain hand tools, and sewing can also have this effect.

If you’re suffering from recurring ingrown nails in the same place, think about how you’re using your hands and see if you can identify the cause. Changing the way you work or using a more ergonomic tool may resolve the problem.

Fungal Infection

While a fungal infection often follows an ingrown nail, infection may also precede the problem. If you have any type of nail infection, you should speak with your doctor about the fastest treatment. Your doctor may prescribe a topical ointment or oral medication to resolve the infection. This can help you get rid of the infection before it leads to a more painful problem, like an ingrown nail.

Improperly Paced Growth

If your nails grow too fast or too slow, you’re at a higher risk for an ingrown nail. Fast nail growth is more likely in youth. Elderly adults usually experience slower nail growth, which can cause the same problem. This isn’t something that you can easily change, so you’ll simply need to stay more aware of nail care, cleaning, and maintenance to help prevent ingrown fingernails.

How To Treat an Ingrown Nail

Understanding what causes ingrown nails is just the first step to finding relief. As mentioned previously, soaking your hand in warm water several times a day for 10 to 20 minutes at a time will help soften the skin so the nail can work its way out. Try adding Epsom salts to the water for greater pain relief.

After a good soak, you should find it easier to gently lift the nail from its place in the skin. This will relieve pressure and encourage proper growth. Apply an anti-fungal or antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. You can place a small piece of wet cotton or dental floss beneath the nail to keep it from sinking back into the skin. Wrap a bandage loosely around the nail to keep it clean. You can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.

If the above methods don’t resolve the ingrown nail, you may need to seek medical attention. You should see a doctor immediately if you have signs of a nail infection like:

• Fever or chills.
• Body aches.
• Red streaks on your skin.
• Pus or fluid leaking from the nail.
• Extreme pain from the ingrown nail.
• Redness and severe inflammation.

You should also speak with your doctor about an ingrown nail if you are immunocompromised or diabetic. Do not attempt any home treatment. These conditions can cause further complications with ingrown fingernails.

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Fingernails: Do's and Don'ts for healthy nails

Take a close look at your fingernails. Do they look strong and healthy? Or do you see ridges, dents, or color or shape changes? Fingernail care can help prevent many nail conditions. And sometimes fingernails give hints about an underlying health condition that needs care.

Fingernails: What's typical, what's not

Fingernails grow from the area at the base of the nail under the cuticle. Fingernails are made of layers of a protein called keratin. Healthy fingernails are smooth. They don't have pits or grooves. They're all one color and free of spots.

Sometimes fingernails get harmless ridges that run up and down, called vertical ridges, from the cuticle to the tip of the nail. Vertical ridges tend to show more with age. Fingernails also can develop white lines or spots due to injury. In time, these grow out with the nail.

Consult your primary healthcare professional or dermatologist if you notice:

• Changes in color, such as a color change to the whole nail or a dark streak under the nail.
• Changes in nail shape, such as curled nails.
• Nails that get thinner or thicker.
• Dents in the nails that look like small punctures, called pits, or grooves in the nails.
• The nail pulling away from the skin around it.
• Bleeding around the nails.
• Swelling or pain around the nails.
• Failure of nails to grow.

Fingernail care: Do's

To keep your fingernails looking their best:

• Keep fingernails dry and clean. This keeps germs from growing under your fingernails. Repeated or long contact with water can split fingernails. Wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when washing dishes, cleaning, or using harsh chemicals.
• Practice good nail hygiene. Use sharp manicure scissors or clippers to cut your nails. Trim them straight across. Then round the tips in a gentle curve.
• Use moisturizer. When you use hand lotion, rub the lotion into your fingernails and cuticles too.
• Apply a protective layer. Applying a nail hardener might help strengthen nails.

Ask your healthcare professional about biotin. Some research suggests that the nutritional supplement biotin might help strengthen weak or brittle nails.

Fingernail care: Don'ts

To prevent nail damage, don't:

• Bite your fingernails or pick at your cuticles. These habits can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut next to your fingernail can allow germs to enter and cause an infection.
• Pull off hangnails. You might rip live tissue along with the hangnail. Instead, gently clip hangnails off.
• Use harsh nail care products. Limit your use of nail polish remover. When using nail polish remover, choose one without acetone.
• Ignore problems. If you have a nail problem that doesn't seem to go away on its own or is linked to other symptoms, contact your primary healthcare professional or dermatologist.

A note about manicures and pedicures

If you rely on manicures or pedicures for healthy-looking nails, keep a few things in mind. Go to salons that show a current state license. Work only with technicians also licensed by the state board.

Don't let your cuticles be removed. They seal the skin to the nail plate. So removal can lead to nail infection. Also, make sure the tools your nail technician uses are sterile to prevent the spread of infection. Make sure you're not allergic to any of the ingredients in the products the salon uses.

You also might ask how the foot baths are cleaned. Ideally, the salon uses a disinfectant between clients and cleans the filters often.

It's easy to neglect your nails. But taking some basic steps can keep your fingernails healthy and strong.

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Managing Thick Toenails and Aging Nails

As circulation diminishes and nail growth alters with age, seniors often contend with thickened toenails. Managing this involves a few thoughtful steps:

• Soften the Nails: Begin by soaking the feet in warm water for about 10 minutes. This softens the nails, making them easier to trim. Adding Epsom salts can further enhance this softening effect.
• Use the Right Tools: A good pair of podiatrist-recommended nail clippers and a nail file are essential. Clippers should be robust and sharp enough to cut through thicker nails effortlessly.
• Trimming Technique: Trim nails straight across to prevent the painful condition of ingrown toenails. Afterwards, gently file down any sharp edges with a nail file to smooth them out.

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Avoid Cutting Cuticles: Safeguarding Against Infections

The cuticles play a crucial role in protecting the nail matrix from bacterial and fungal infections. In elderly individuals, the risk of infection is higher due to a weakened immune system, making the preservation of this natural barrier even more important. Instead of cutting the cuticles, which creates open wounds prone to infections, opt for a gentler approach:

• Softening the Cuticles: Start by applying a cuticle cream or soaking the hands in warm water. This softens the cuticles, making them more pliable and easier to manage.
• Gently Push Back Cuticles: Using a cuticle stick, carefully push back the softened cuticles. Be mindful to do this gently to avoid tearing the skin. A cuticle pusher with a soft, rounded edge is ideal for this task, as it minimizes the risk of puncturing the tender skin around the nail.
• Hydrate and Protect: After pushing back the cuticles, apply a nourishing oil or cream to hydrate and provide a layer of protection against dryness and cracking.

By adhering to these careful practices, you can help maintain the nail health of elderly individuals, ensuring not only the aesthetics of well-kept nails but also protecting their overall health by preventing potential infections and injuries. These acts of care, while seemingly small, contribute significantly to their comfort and well-being. Source

Aging Can Cause More Feet Issues

The natural aging process brings the gradual onset of certain health issues, and foot problems tend to be a common issue faced by many older adults. When you spend several decades putting pressure on your feet, they can eventually run into some problems due to a number of age-related factors. For example: 

• Skin on the feet usually loses elasticity, which can make skin issues more common.
• The fat pad on the bottom of the foot starts to thin, which can cause discomfort. This can also lead to an increased risk of foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
• Joints, ligaments and tendons in the feet may start to degenerate, which can lead to issues like osteoarthritis and cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
• Older adults may be more likely to have a chronic health condition like diabetes, which can affect blood flow and nerve function in the feet. As a result, this can increase the risk of things like foot ulcers and infections.
• Aging can cause reduced circulation in the extremities, including the feet. This can negatively impact things like wound healing. 
• Many older adults have reduced mobility due to conditions like arthritis, which can cause changes in posture and gait. As a result, foot problems such as bunions and calluses can develop. 
• At any age, wearing improper footwear and neglecting foot and nail health can lead to foot issues, however the likelihood is higher when this has been the case over many years.
• Older adults tend to experience decreased pain sensation in their feet, which means detecting injuries like cuts or infections can be more difficult, leading to delays in treatment.

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The Power of a Top Coat

Once your colored polish is applied, a top coat seals the deal. Its benefits are equally vital:

• Extends Wear Time: This is perhaps the most well-known benefit. A top coat protects your manicure from chips, scratches, and everyday wear and tear, significantly extending its life.
• Adds Shine and Gloss: Most top coats impart a beautiful, high-shine finish, making your manicure look professional and polished. There are also matte top coats for a trendy, velvety look.
• Quickens Drying Time: Many modern top coats are "quick-dry" formulas, helping your manicure set faster and reducing the risk of smudges.
• Protects from Fading: A top coat acts as a shield against UV rays and other environmental factors that can dull or fade your nail polish color over time.
• Smoothes and Evens: It can help to smooth out any minor imperfections or streaks from your color application, giving a flawless finish.

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Importance Of A Base Coat

A base coat acts as a protective barrier between your natural nail and the colored polish. Here's why it's a non-negotiable step:

Prevents Staining: Darker pigments, especially reds, blues, and blacks, can easily stain your natural nails. A good base coat creates a clear layer that prevents this discoloration.

Improves Adhesion: Base coats are formulated to create a slightly tacky surface, allowing the nail polish to adhere better. This means less chipping and longer wear.

Smooths the Nail Surface: If your nails have ridges or imperfections, a ridge-filling base coat can create a smooth canvas for your polish, ensuring an even application.

Strengthens Nails: Many base coats are infused with strengthening ingredients like keratin or vitamins, helping to protect weak or brittle nails from breakage.

Enhances Color Payoff: A neutral base can help the true color of your polish pop, especially with sheer or lighter shades.

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Why Are My Feet and Toes Peeling?

Constantly peeling skin on your feet and toes can be irritating, itchy, and embarrassing. Who wants to wear sandals in summer if your feet look like a snake molting its skin? Getting to the bottom of the matter can make your feet look and feel better.

1. Dry skin

Dry skin, or xerosis, can show up on your toes and feet. It starts as flaky skin and cracks, especially on your heels, the balls of your feet, and the outside of your big toe. You might feel a mild tightness or itching before the skin starts peeling away between your toes or on the soles of your feet — often in small, dry flakes. 

Fixing dry skin means washing in cooler water, using a moisturizer religiously, and gently exfoliating your feet a few times a week.

2. Fungal infection

If the peeling is mainly between your toes and is accompanied by a relentless itch and redness, it’s more likely you have a fungal infection like athlete’s foot. Fungal infections tend to emit a foul odor, and your feet may burn or sting.

The best treatment for fungal infections is the consistent application of antifungal creams, sprays, or powders, keeping your feet dry with frequent sock changes, and avoiding walking barefoot in damp common areas.

3. Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that can lead to symptoms on your feet and toes as well as other parts of your body, such as your elbows and knees. You can have a flare-up from allergens, stress, and even heat, causing dry, itchy patches, redness or irritation, and peeling or cracked skin.

Breathable socks and fragrance-free moisturizers can help calm eczema symptoms. Usually a doctor can recommend topical treatments if your eczema continues to cause foot issues.

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that often affects your elbows or knees. It can also target your feet and hands, in which case it’s called palmoplantar psoriasis. Common signs include:

• Skin that comes off in big flakes or peels in sheets 
• Thick, red patches on your feet, toes, or ankles with silvery scales
• Pain, soreness, and cracked skin that may bleed when you walk

Treatment can include prescription creams, phototherapy, or oral medications. Psoriasis requires constant monitoring and management.

5. Sunburn

Last but not least, one of the most common causes of sudden peeling of the skin on your feet and toes during the summer can simply be sunburn. Many people forget the tops of their feet when applying sunscreen, and the result can be red, tender skin that’s warm to the touch, blisters, and peels for several days after the initial burn. Thankfully, this condition is short-lived. Use cool compresses and aloe vera gels to soothe and treat your skin, and stay out of the sun until it heals. Next time, remember your feet are sun-vulnerable, too, and don’t skip the SPF.

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Changes That Happen With Our Fingernails

The body undergoes multiple changes with age, including muscle loss and the development of certain health conditions. Fingernails also start to thicken or become more brittle. For yourself or a loved one, be aware of the following factors when it comes to your nails.

Age can cause your nails to harden, thicken and lose their glossy translucence, which results in a yellow, often dull appearance. As keratin breaks down, nails may also thin and become more fragile, increasing your risks for breakage and fungal infections.

Additionally, fingernail quality can indicate the presence of certain diseases. As such, you’re advised to have your nails examined regularly by a podiatrist. For basic nail care:

• Get your finger and toenails trimmed and shaped regularly. If you’re unable to yourself, have a professional or loved one do it for you.
• If your nails start to thicken, apply moisturizer to help make them easier to cut.
• Pay attention to ridges. Vertical ridges occur with age, but horizontal ridges and pitting can indicate certain health conditions, including a zinc deficiency, certain cardiovascular diseases, a thyroid issue or psoriasis.
• Pay attention to discoloration. Yellow or gray tones emerge with age but dark patches can indicate a fungal infection, bruising or melanoma.
• Also be aware of the shape. Certain curves can indicate an iron deficiency or heart, respiratory or kidney issues.

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What Exactly is a Callus?

There are many myths about calluses and corns, but understanding what they actually are is the first step toward effective treatment. Both corns and calluses are essentially the same condition—a buildup of thickened skin on the foot caused by increased pressure or friction in that particular area. When this thickened skin develops on the bottom or sides of the foot, it's typically called a callus. When the same condition occurs between toes or on top of the toes, it's referred to as a "corn."

Callus vs. Corn: Understanding the Difference

Calluses

• Located on bottom or sides of feet
• Larger, more spread out
• Usually less painful than corns
• Caused by weight-bearing pressure

Corns

• Found between or on top of toes
• Smaller, more concentrated
• Often more painful due to pressure
• Caused by toe friction and deformities

Calluses are caused by several common factors:

• Bunions - Causing pressure on the side of the foot
• Elongated foot bones - Creating pressure points on the bottom of the foot
• Hammertoes - Leading to corn formation on top of or between toes
• High heels or ill-fitting shoes - Common
• Biomechanical issues - Abnormal walking patterns or foot structure
• High activity levels - Hiking and outdoor activities

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Happy Easter!

 

Happy Holidays! Hope you had a blessed weekend! -UpKept Spa

536 Main Street

Vacaville, CA 95688

(Inside Jon Edwards Salon & Spa)

Tel: 707.208.7646

What Are the 7 Parts of the Nail?

The nail is composed of seven parts, each with its unique role in maintaining the strength and health of our nails.

Nail plate (body): The hard, keratinized structure that forms the visible part of the nail.

Nail folds (groove): The skin surrounding and supporting the nail on three sides.

Nail bed (sterile matrix): The pinkish tissue underneath the nail plate.

Germinal matrix: The base of the nail bed.

Hyponychium: The skin beneath the free edge of the nail.

Cuticle (eponychium): The thin layer of tissue covering the base of the nail plate.

Lunula: The half-moon-shaped area at the base of the nail, representing the visible part of the nail’s root.

Now that we know the seven parts of the nail, let’s dive deeper into their functions;

• The nail plate gives our nails their characteristic shape and appearance. It also helps protect the underlying tissues.
• The nail folds provide protection and support for the sides of the nail, keeping it in place.
• The nail bed nourishes the nail plate through a network of blood vessels and determines the shape and thickness of our nails.
• The germinal matrix produces new cells that contribute to nail growth and development.
• The hyponychium is a barrier protecting the sensitive nail bed from exposure to external elements.
• The cuticle prevents bacteria and other harmful substances from entering the body through the nail plate.
• The lunula is an important landmark for dermatologists, as changes in its appearance can indicate certain health conditions or nutritional deficiencies.

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Dry, Cracked Hands? Try This Nourishing Hand-Care Routine

While most skincare aficionados know that it’s important to apply skincare products onto the neck and decolletage, along with the face, you may not know that it's important to indulge your hands with a routine as well. The hands are one of the first areas of the body to show signs of aging, and the same fine lines, wrinkles and sun spots that show up on your face can also pop up on your hands. The good news is putting together a hand-care routine is much easier than you might think, even if you have dry, cracked hands. 

Anti-Aging Hand Care Routine

From slathering on hand cream to applying sunscreen regularly, these are the steps to building an anti-aging hand-care routine — just remember to be as consistent as you are with your skincare routine. 

Step 1: Exfoliate One to Two Times a Week

Just like the skin on your face and body, the skin on your hands can benefit from a weekly or twice-weekly exfoliation session. Exfoliation can help slough off dead surface skin cell buildup — which can appear more prominently on your hands — and make it easier for your skin to soak up hydrating hand-care products like serums, oils and hand cream. 

Step 2: Use a Serum

At night, when you’re applying your anti-aging skincare products to your face, try massaging some of those serums into the tops of your hands, too. This can not only salvage some of that excess product you may have accidentally squirted into your palms, but it can also help ensure that the skin on your hands is receiving a boost of nourishing skin benefits. 

Step 3: Apply Retinol

In addition to applying serum to the tops of your hands, you may want to consider using your retinol serums as hand care. An active form of vitamin A, retinol works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as well as to even out your skin tone. You can incorporate retinol into both your skincare routine for your face and your hands. If you’ve never used retinol on your skin — including your hands — before, start with a lower concentration and frequency and slowly work your way up to help prevent irritation. Retinol can contribute toward sun sensitivity, so be sure to apply your retinol-infused products in the evening and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your hands in the morning. If you’re unsure if retinol is right for you, reach out to a board-certified dermatologist. 

Step 4: Nourish Your Cuticles

Show your cuticles some love with cuticle oil. You can also use an oil such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil or argan oil to give your cuticles a hydrating effect. Simply apply the oil to the tops of your cuticles and nail beds and gently massage it in.

Step 5: Use Hand Cream on the Regular

When it comes to youthful-looking skin, hydration is key. Keep the skin on your hands looking and feeling well-moisturized with a rich hand cream. Unlike body lotions, hand creams are often thicker in texture and target rougher areas of skin, which is great if you’re battling dry hands. Keep one near your sink or in your purse and apply it to your hands after washing them.

Step 6: Deep Condition Your Hands

When moisturizer isn’t enough, we like to take things one step further and treat our hands to some deep conditioning R&R. Once a week, massage a nourishing oil, such as tamanu oil or argan oil, onto freshly exfoliated and cleansed hands as part of your hand care routine. Wrap them in plastic wrap and cover them with a pair of mittens or fuzzy socks to keep everything in place. Leave the wraps on for about an hour (or overnight) before removing for soft, smooth, supple-looking hands.

Step 7: Protect With Sunscreen

You should always — we repeat: always — apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to your hands in the morning and throughout the day as needed (i.e. after you rinse your hands). Broad-spectrum SPF can help protect the skin from sunburns, sun spots, premature signs of skin aging and skin cancer, which can appear on your hands or under your nails. 

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What Causes Yellow Fingernails?

Next to our nighttime skin-care routine, giving ourselves a manicure is one of our favorite ways to indulge in self-care. But have you ever noticed that after a while of painting your nails, especially in dark colors, your natural nails begin to appear stained with a yellow tinge? Although yellow fingernails are a common concern, not that many people talk about it openly. We were curious to find out the truth behind yellow-appearing fingernails, including its causes , what you can do if you get them and what, if anything,  you can do to help prevent them. Here to give us the lowdown is board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jason Miller of Schweiger Dermatology Group. 

What Causes Yellow Fingernails?

According to Dr. Miller, yellow fingernails can have several underlying causes. “One of the most common causes is a fungal infection of the nail,” he says. “Other common causes include smoking, staining from self-tanners or certain nail polishes, especially darker shades.” He explains that when dyes in the nail polish interact with the keratin in the nail, it can lead to a yellow discoloration. Acetone (a common nail polish remover) can also make yellow fingernails worse as “it causes the dissolved polish to adhere directly to the nail,” he adds. Some less common causes of yellow discoloration of the nails are certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, liver disease and diabetes. “If your nails become yellow and there is no explanation, be sure to visit your doctor to help figure out the cause.” 

Can You Prevent Yellow Fingernails?

“While there are several genetic or medical causes that cannot be prevented, many of the underlying reasons for yellow nails can be avoided,” says Dr. Miller. For instance, avoiding smoking, prolonged use of dark polish and being very careful when self-tanning can help prevent the discoloration from happening. “It also helps to start your manicure with a base of clear polish, minimizing the use of dark polish and using a non-acetone remover,” he says. 

How Can You Get Rid of Yellow Fingernails?

“The first step is to treat the underlying cause,” says Dr. Miller. If there is a fungal infection, topical or oral medications may help. But, ultimately, if you’re ever unsure, make sure to visit your dermatologist for help. Source

7 Benefits of Proper Cuticle Care

Cuticle care is more than just a finishing touch to your manicure; it's a fundamental step for nail health and beauty. Your cuticles form a protective barrier against infection, ensuring that your nails grow strong and look their best...

1. Prevents Hangnails and Infections

Dry, neglected cuticles are prone to painful hangnails, which can easily lead to infections. Proper care, such as gently pushing back cuticles and moisturizing them, reduces the risk of hangnails and keeps bacteria from entering the nail bed, preventing discomfort and potential health issues.

2. Promotes Healthy Nail Growth

Healthy cuticles are essential for healthy nails. Well-maintained cuticles create the optimal environment for nail growth, ensuring your nails grow stronger and less prone to breakage. Regular cuticle care fosters balanced, even nail growth, making your hands look more polished and manicured.

3. Enhances Nail Appearance

Dry, overgrown cuticles can give your nails an unkempt look. Pushing back and hydrating cuticles allows your nails to appear cleaner and longer. Proper cuticle care provides a neat, polished foundation, highlighting the natural beauty of your nails and any manicure you choose to apply.

4. Softens and Nourishes Skin

Cuticle treatments often include oils and creams rich in vitamins and nourishing ingredients that not only soften the cuticle area but also nourish the surrounding skin. Hydrated cuticles are less prone to cracking or peeling, making your hands look and feel healthier.

5. Reduces Nail Trauma and Damage

Overgrown cuticles can lead to nail trauma, especially when performing daily tasks. When cuticles are too long or dry, they can pull and tear, putting strain on the nails. Proper cuticle care keeps your cuticles manageable, which in turn reduces stress on the nails and keeps them in top shape.

6. Encourages Long-Lasting Manicures

If you love manicures, taking care of your cuticles is a must. A clean, properly prepared cuticle line helps polish adhere better and last longer. This step also minimizes chipping and peeling, meaning your manicure can stay fresh-looking for an extended period.

7. Boosts Overall Hand Health and Confidence

Healthy cuticles are a part of a healthy hand-care routine. Well-groomed hands can make a great first impression and boost your confidence, whether in a professional setting or social gatherings. Taking time for cuticle care can enhance the look and feel of your entire hand, giving you a sense of pride in your appearance.

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