The Nail Files

2011-11-11T11:18:00.001-06:00

3 Modern Twists on the French Manicure

www.makeup.com

If you're totally over the white-tipped French manicure try one of these funky alternatives courtesy of three celebrity nail artists.

Filing and Shaping Your Nails

2011-11-11T11:02:00.001-06:00

It is best to file your nails only when the white part of the nail-the tip-has grown ¼ inch from the nail's stress point, which is where the free edge meets the pink part of the nail plate. If you file your nails before this point, it can weaken them. At the same time, if you let your free edge grow longer than the nail plate, it is certain your nail will break. Do not file from side to side, which can weaken the stress points of the nail's free edge. Be sure to go from corner to center in one direction, using the groove on the side of your nail as a guide.

Choosing a File

Stay away from metal nail files since they are very harsh and can even split nails. One wrong swipe and you've ruined your nail shape. Most manicurists recommend a soft, straight file that won't cause any damage if you swipe it the wrong way.

Shaping the Nail

There are many ways to determine your nail's shape. Many people want to have their nails cut square, which may come from the belief that square-cut nails are stronger. This is a myth-in fact, if you shape them correctly, all nail shapes are equally as strong. If your cuticle is oval shaped at the base, the square look may work for you, but if you have a pointed cuticle, you may want to go with a more oval-shaped nail.Now, the trend is a softer shape.

http://www.ivillage.com/filing-and-shaping-your-nails/5-a-147448

French blush

2011-10-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

This is a French blush nail color from a French nail kit.

Healthy Nails are within reach...

2011-08-02T12:40:00.000-05:00

Green nail polish may be hot this summer, but "it makes me think about nail infections," says dermatologist Cynthia Bailey. Black or green discoloration is usually a sign of a bacterial infection, says Bailey, of Sebastopol, California. Fungus, yeast and discolorations are some of the conditions that can send us seeking medical attention. And for good reason. "Changes in the nail can signal problems with your overall health," says Joshua Zeichner, director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospital's Department of Dermatology in New York. Liver disease, kidney disease, medication side effects, even certain cancers can cause changes in the nails, he says. Serious medical conditons aside, even routine dishwashing or getting a manicure can be hard on nails. But we can lessen the damage, experts say:

Protect cuticles. The strip of hardened skin at the base and sides prevents microbes from infecting your nails. Damage it and your risk the nasty infection paronychia, Bailey says. It's ok to push cuticles back gently, but don't cut them, Zeichner says. "If you get a hangnail, cut it cleanly with a cuticle scissor, but don't pick at it. That can lead to infection."

Get wet. Clipping and filing dry nails only makes splitting worse, Bailey says. After showering or soaking nails, "towel off the water and use sharp clippers, followed by gently buffing the edges." Nails should be cut straight across to prevent edges from becoming ingrown, a condition that can lead to painful infection, Zeichner says.

Baby your brittle nails. Age and harsh products "reduce the natural oils that act as a glue to hold the nail layers together," Bailey says. To counter the loss, apply cream, oil or ointment to the hands and nails several times a day, she adds. "Regularly applying a thick cream like Bag Balm, for example, at bedtime for several months makes a big difference."

Limit the use of nail polish removers, including acetone-free varieties, which are very hard on fragile nails, she says. And your mother was wise when she put on rubber gloves to wash the dishes, Zeichner says: "Excess exposure to water, especially warm water, can dehydrate the skin and nails."

Be patient. Fingernails grow about one-tenth of an inch a month, the American Academy of Dermatology says. Gelatin capsules won't speed it up, Bailey says, but vitamin supplements containing biotin "may help weak or fragile nails, as does a balanced diet."

Pratice salon smarts. Some people are allergic to chemicals used in acrylic nails and can develop severe rashes that can spread, Bailey says. Applying acrylic nails also creates many nooks and crannies for organisms to live, which can result in fungal, bacterial and yeast infections" she says.

Sanitation "is always in the forefront of the nail industry," says Sree Roy, managing editor of Nails Magazine, which covers salons. Though state health departments regular salon sanitation, clients should ask about how a salon handles sanitation and disinfection, look for its policy statement on the premises or on its website, and look for salons that highilight good sanitation.

Opt for non-toxic polishes. An increasing number of nail polishes have been reformulated to remove potentially carcinogenic ingredients dibutyl phthalate (DBP), formaldehyde and toluene. "But even within the same brand, some may still contain some of these ingredients, so it is important to check the individual color," Zeichner says. If the label isn't clear, he recommends checking the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Database (ewg.org/skindeep) for personal-care product safety infirmaiton.

Michele Healy, USA Today

How to Cure Split Nails

2011-08-02T11:31:00.000-05:00

Overview

Split fingernails are a condition that occurs when the nail bed becomes broken and separated. The nails are likely to be brittle and soft as well. It can give your nails an unattractive appearance and require that you grow the nails to improve the look. While treating the cause of split nails, you can use clear nail polish or nail glue to hold them together. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your split fingernails.

Step 1

Limit how long you expose your nails to water. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, prolonged contact with water is the most common cause of split fingernails. Skip taking long soaks in the tub and bathe in lukewarm water to avoid stripping the nails of moisture.

Step 2

Wear gloves while cleaning or exposing your hands to any harsh chemicals. Choose cotton lined gloves to protect the nails.

Step 3

Reduce how much you use nail polish removal on your nails. The harsh chemicals in nail polish removers can thin and weaken the nails, which makes breakage more likely to occur. Use nail polish remover no more than bi-monthly. When you do use the nail polish remover, choose an acetone-free version.

Step 4

Keep your nails well moisturized by applying a hand cream. Lock in moisture and strengthen the nails by using a hand cream after washing the hands. The hand cream you choose should contain alpha hydroxy acids or lanolin.

Step 5

File down your nails. Round the tips of the fingernails with the use of a nail file as a way to keep the nails from breaking.

Step 6

Take a vitamin supplement. Nutritional deficiencies can cause fingernails to break and split. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology website, take 2 mg daily of biotin to stop brittle and splitting nails. It is not recommended to use this supplement if you are pregnant.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/76898-cure-split-nails/

Preventing toenail infection

2011-08-02T11:29:00.002-05:00

Here are tips for preventing toenail fungus,from the Mayo Clinic's website:

Short, dry and clean nails that have been cut straight across are less likely to become chipped, stubbed or to irritate surrounding skin, creating openings for fungus.
After bathing, the area between toes can trap moisture and encourage fungal growth unless you thoroughly dry your feet before stepping back into shoes.
Socks made with synthetic materials that wick away moisure can keep feet dryer than cotton or wool socks. But even such "high-tech" fibers will become saturated when your feet sweat excessively. Changing socks during the day is a smart tactic.
Anti-fungal sprays or powders can be sprayed or sprinkled on your feet and the inside of your shoes.
Trimming or picking at the skin around your nails can give germs an opening.
Fungi thrive in the warm, moist environs of pools, showers and locker rooms, but if you wear shoes or sandals you're less likely to step into a little colony.
Nail polish and artifiical nails can trap moisture and worsen an infection.

The Washington Post

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-03T11:56:00.002-05:00

Wishing all my followers a very Happy and Safe 4th of July!!!

Is nail polish bad to breathe?

2011-06-26T12:13:00.003-05:00

Nearly all the popular brands of nail polishes including Revlon and OPI contain organic solvents and methacrylates. The March 2002 issue of Neuropsychiatry, Neuropsychology, & Behavioral Neurology summarizes a study by Gina LaoSasso, Ph.D et.al, that shows prolonged exposure to nailpolish fumes can affect the way your brain works.

The researchers tested 33 nail-salon technicians compared to the same number of demographically similar control subjects (in other words, women who had no exposure to nail polish or other toxic chemicals.) Both groups were given a series of psychologic, neuropsychologic, and neurosensory tests.

Nail Polish Fumes Affect Brain Functions

Their study showed three main results:

The nail technicians performed statistically worse than the control group on tests that measured attention and brain processing speed.
The nail technicians and the control group showed no statistical differences in learning and memory, fine motor coordination, or on measures of depression and anxiety.
The nail technicians’ sense of smell was statistically worse than the control group’s.

Fresh air, not fumes

What does all this mean? Apparently, exposure to enough nail polish fumes can make your brain a little slow and fuzzy. Kinda scary, huh? Unfortunately, the study didn’t provide details on how long this effect lasts so we don’t know if your brain returns to normal once you’ve gotten away from the nail fumes.

And while the study did measure the size of the salon, the amount of ventilation, and the number of hours that the technicians worked, the data can’t be used to predict what would happen at a lower exposure. In other words, if you’re in a nail salon long enough, you may experience these problems. But is 30 minutes a week enough to cause an effect? It doesn’t look like it but clearly more studies are needed. In the meantime, make sure you’re getting plenty of fresh air when you’re getting your nails done!

http://thebeautybrains.com/

Do fingernails grow faster than toenails?

2011-06-26T12:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, but the exact mechanisms that control the speed of fingernail and toennail growth are unknown, said Jeffrey S Dover, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medcine. Fingernails grow about three times as fast as toenails.

"As nails age, they probably slow their growth a little bit," Dover added. "We don't know why." Skin gets less elastic and shiny with age, "and hair and nails are really all part of your skin, and age similarly."

Bruce Robinson, clinical intructor of dermatology at Lenox Hill and Mount Sinai Hospitals in New York, said that fingernails "reach their peak growth in the second and third decades, with a slight decline thereafter." A possible reason, he suggested, is decreased blood flow and medical conditions that can affect it.

The fingernails' growth rate, Robinson said, depends on an array of variables; the individual; handedness (for unknown reasons, nails tend to grow faster on one's writing hand); illness; and age. He also said that the rate increased in summer and decreased in winter and that growth was thought to be faster in men than in women, and in women during pregnancy.

Get Shellacked!

2011-06-26T12:08:00.002-05:00

A chip-free, long-lasting alternative to acrylics and gels? Could it be true? Believe it! Creative Nail Design has introduced Shellac Nails- a fabulous and long-wearing polish option without the hassle or damage to your natural nail. This smudge-free, chip-free and quick drying nail color applies like polish, wears for two weeks of high gloss shine, can be removed in minutes and comes in 12 different shades.

How long does a shellac manicure last?

The actual Shellac color application will last for 14 days. It will last beyond 14 days but you will see a "line of demarcation" as your nail grows from the cuticle.

What is the difference between shellac and gels or polish?

Shellac is a patent pending technology by Creative Nail Design. It took them 4 years to create this product. Shellac is for the customer who is interested in long-wearing nail polish. This product will not extend your nail length. There are no primers, no liquids, no odor, and never any filing on your natural nail. It goes on just like polish.

Does it harm your natural nails?

Shellac does not harm your natural nails at all.

Sally Hansen Color Quick nail pen "Sand Shimmer"

2011-05-24T17:59:00.004-05:00

Four Easy Tips For Longer, Stronger Nails ..

2011-02-23T17:46:00.001-06:00

1. Avoid nail polishes containing formaldehyde.
This chemical can cross link the keratin protein in your nails. While it does make the nails harder, it also makes them so stiff that they become brittle so they actually break MORE easily.

2. Dont bother with gelatin.
Many products claim that gelatin strengthens nails because it is made from protein, but there is no scientific evidence that gelatin has any benefit to nails.

3. Limit your use of polish removers.
These products contain alcohol and other solvents that dry nails out, making them more prone to breakage.

4. Use a good hand cream or cuticle cream.
Daily exposure to detergents and harsh chemicals dries out your nails and makes them break more easily. By moisturizing them often you can prevent loss of moisture and reduce the chance of breakage. Lotions with petrolatum or mineral oil are the best. You might try the Terra Naturals Nail Strengthener.

Source: http://thebeautybrains.com/2007/04/04/four-easy-tips-for-longer-stonger-nails/

"Caviar" Nails from Cushnie et Ochs' Fall Runway ..

2011-02-23T17:44:00.001-06:00

Would you try it?

http://www.ivillage.com/try-home-caviar-nails-cushnie-et-ochs-fall-runway/5-a-325140

LcB Nail Lacquer

2011-02-23T17:42:00.001-06:00

LaKhiva Blann of Little Rock has created a new nail polish line for one specific purpose - to build self-esteem.

Take a peek - http://www.lcbnaillacquer.com/shop.html

Sally Hansen Color Quick

2011-02-14T14:51:00.003-06:00

This is fabulous! Just click the pen for color and paint your nails. You can even carry this pen in your purse. It really really does dry very quickly.

http://www.sallyhansen.com/product.cfm?product=397

Shelf Life of Nail Polish

2011-02-07T11:05:00.002-06:00

Just as it dries on your nails, over time, nail polish can dry out in the bottle. Here are some good rules to make your prized polishes last as long as possible.

What's In Nail Polish?
Women have been painting their nails as far back as 3000 B.C. when the Chinese used a combination of Arabic gum, egg whites, gelatin, and beeswax to make a lacquer, with crushed flowers to provide color. While these ingredients are certainly not used in today's nail polishers, the art of painting one's nails has evolved through the years. The chief base ingredient is nitrocellulose, which is a highly flammable compound that can be combined with a solvent to make a lacquer. Today, cosmetics companies add a variety of compounds to enhance color, drying time, and staying power.

How Long Will It Last?
As a rule of thumb, nail polish can last at best for two years. While from a health perspective there are no chemicals in nail polish that are dangerous after two years, the polish typically dries to a point where it's discolored, or a smooth application cannot be achieved.

Are There Ways I Can Extend Nail Polish's Shelf Life?
Here are some general rules for storing your polish:

1. Keep polish in a cool, dry place. Nail polish is most affected by heat.

2. Keep a tight lid on the bottle. While this may seem simple, ensuring your polish is fully sealed can go a long away in extending its life.

3. Store bottles in an upright position. Bottles that are kept on their sides (or even upside down) can discolor more easily because it's harder to shake the pigments together.

Should I Refrigerate My Nail Polishes?
While many claim that keeping polish in the refrigerator will extend its shelf life, there is no conclusive proof that this method works. Refrigeration may slow the drying-out process; however, some of the ingredients in nail polish are highly flammable. Keeping them in an electric refrigerator may be more of a safety concern than a health concern.

Nail Polish Goes Green
Nail polish is known for its strong smell, and this is chiefly due to the chemical ingredients it contains. Today, companies are releasing polishes that are termed non-toxic, formaldehyde-free, or even water-based, which uses water and plant-based compounds to create a nail-polish-like substance. Because chemicals are incorporated with standard nail polishes to extend their shelf lives, these types of polish may not last as long as their chemical counterparts.

http://www.ehow.com/about_5112923_shelf-life-nail-polish.html

Blue My Mind

2010-12-26T12:23:00.002-06:00

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Nail Fungus

2010-09-08T13:30:00.001-05:00

Nail fungus may grow in the nail bed on both the fingernails and the toenails. Fungus grows in dark, moist areas and may grow under the nails after you use public showers and swimming pools, says the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, toenail fungus may be caused by wearing synthetic socks or wearing the same pair of shoes over and over. In some cases, you can reduce fungus naturally with home remedies.

Vinegar
Soaking the nails in vinegar may be effective in reducing some cases of toenail or fingernail fungus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although it may not be effective in all cases, the home remedy is inexpensive and may be worth a try. Soak your feet or hands for 15 to 20 minutes in a solution of one part vinegar and two parts warm water once a day. If the vinegar causes skin irritation, add more water to the solution or reduce soaking to three or four times a week.

Trim Nails
Trim nails short; the lifting of a long nail from its bed can give fungus access to the nail bed. To keep fungus from spreading, keep nails trimmed as close to the nail bed as possible. Do not cut your cuticles, says podiatrist James Graham, D.P.M. Removing the cuticles can create an easy entrance for fungus, which can rapidly spread to the rest of the nail. Wash your hands and the nail scissors or clippers thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water after trimming your nails to keep the fungus from spreading.

Nail Brush
Use a nail brush to exfoliate the skin around the nails, recommends Richard L. Dobson, M.D., professor of dermatology at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Fungus attaches itself to dead skin cells and will spread rapidly to the nails. Scrub away dead skin cells using antibacterial soap and water each day; then rinse with cool water. Wash the scrub brush after using it to prevent fungus from growing on the brush.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/116957-natural-rid-nail-fungus

Nailcare for Men

2010-09-08T13:25:00.001-05:00

Men's nails generally grow faster than women's nails and tend to be stronger. However, their increased surface area makes them prone to trauma from bumps and bangs. Wider nails often need more coats of nail polish and a longer time to dry as well as making it harder to keep the polish spread smoothly on the nail surface.

Should you go the route of nail salons, you may discover that they charge more for men. A non-gothic friend of mine who goes for manicure on a regular basis tells me he can often talk them down to the same price as women or find places that charge the same price for both genders. However, chances are the more complicated your needs the more likely they will charge more. It is always a good idea to find a salon you feel comfortable with and become a repeat customer. Keep in mind that you do not need to go to a nail salon if you follow my suggested weekly maintenance. If you are unsure of how to begin, you may want to go once to see how they prepare for the nail care, or do what I did and go with a friend who is getting a manicure and just watch.

Apart from a 20 minute weekly self-manicure, there is not much else needed apart from an almost daily application of clear polish to keep the nail protected. You may also want to use hand lotion once a day to help keep the cuticles soft and the nails flexible… of course most men use some sort of lotion or lubricant on a somewhat regular basis so that may not be a problem... at least for one hand.

As the subtitle "Isn't he Dainty" suggests, you need to relearn how to use your hands and fingers. The section entitled Nail Care Survival Guide covers this topic well, but I'll add that men tend to have more of a problem with long nails than women in this area because they are starting the practice so much later in life. Women have the advantage of starting younger and also learning from the experiences of their peers growing up. So be patient with yourself and accept your fate that you will break a few nails in the beginning. Stop whining about it and be a man!

There are many brands out that have released polish specifically for men that come in a variety of colors. Apart from the nice non-gloss clear polish that is great for those who like the natural look, there is no reason to bother with these brands unless you like a particular shade they carry. These gender-specific polishes were intended for mundane males who are concerned about feeling effeminate while purchasing nail polish. Goths don't tend to be concerned about such gender issues.

Finally, be realistic. If you are active in sports or other activities that are rough on the hands, long nails are probably not for you. This goes for women too, but they tend to be more aware of the limitations one's lifestyle has on nail length.

http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_for_men.htm

Types of Artificial Nails

2010-07-01T17:12:00.003-05:00

Sculptured Nails
In this process, acrylic, gel or fiberglass is applied to your nails, and the material is lengthened and sculpted over metal or foil. Or, a plastic nail tip can be applied with glue, and then gel, fiberglass, silk or acrylic can be laid over the entire nail. As the natural nail grows out, your manicurist will fill in the base and file down the artificial tip. Eventually, you will end up with just the overlay on your natural nail

Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are the strongest and last the longest of all the nail overlays. But, if it's not done well, these nails can look thick and very artificial. Find a manicurist who is an expert at applying acrylic nails, and you can get a very thin, natural-looking nail. They usually need to be filled in every two to three weeks as your nails grow, but depending on how hard you are on your nails, you may need to see the manicurist sooner to avoid nail loosening, which can lead to mildew if water gets trapped underneath. And, if a professional removes them properly, the acrylic nails should cause little weakening to the nail plate. One factor that might make you choose acrylic: It is the most commonly-used artificial nail; if you travel a great deal, it will be easier for you to find a place to repair or fill in your manicure.

Silk, Linen and Fiber Wraps
Wraps are pieces of silk, linen or fiberglass that have been cut to the desired shape and glued to the nail plate. This adds strength, and sometimes length, to the nail. Though done on natural nails, wraps are most commonly used to strengthen tips. Silk is the most natural-looking wrap and provides a lot of flexibility, but it is often too delicate for those with an active lifestyle. Linen is stronger, but it is not transparent and appears quite thick. Fiberglass is the best of both worlds, since it provides the natural look of silk and the strength of linen.

Gel Nails
Once, these nails were made of dental porcelain gel-powder. Now, manicurists use a Mylar form to sculpt your nail, and then cure, or set, it under an ultraviolet light. Because of this process, gel nails may need to be filled in less often than acrylic nails, though fill-ins are still necessary, and a professional must remove the tips.

http://www.ivillage.com/types-artificial-nails/5-a-147441

Blush French

2010-06-07T14:28:00.002-05:00

Nail Care Commandments

2010-06-07T14:24:00.002-05:00

Despite reasonable efforts, we have been unable to attribute the following. We are however grateful to the author, and thankfully acknowledge their rights to the following piece.

Thou shalt not get dehydrated.

Drink plenty of water and protect the nails from fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Use a good nail conditioner and sealing topcoat to finish the job.

Thou shalt not let your skin dry out.

Use a good hand lotion to moisturise hands and cuticle area. The right fragrance can make all the difference.

Thou shalt eat right.

Proper diet is as important to nail care as it is to the rest of the body. Calcium or iron deficiencies may cause irregular nail growth and tell-tale white spots.

Thou shalt improve blood flow.

Blood flow around the nail bed brings the nutrients that allow healthy nails to grow. Massaging in hand lotion is an excellent way to stimulate blood flow into the nail bed.

Thou shalt not forget thy gloves.

Wear gloves when doing cleaning tasks either in the house or garden. Extra moisture tip: put a tiny bit of sweet almond oil on the hands before putting them in the gloves.

Thou shalt not use acetone.

Using harsh chemicals like nail varnish remover more than once a week can be very damaging to nails and surrounding skin. Use acetone-free remover.

Thou shalt not use fingernails as tools.

Do not use fingernails as replacement Swiss army knives. Use proper tools for the job.

Thou shalt not bite thy nails.

Nail biting is a difficult habit to break. Nail grooming can be an effective way to relieve the temptation to bite. Nail polish serves as a visual cue to keep from biting.

Thou shalt keep thy hands healthy.

Fingernails serve as a barrier to infection. Untended hands quickly show wear and tear.

Thou shalt keep hands clean at all times.

http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailcare_commandments.htm

Splitting Nails Solution

2010-06-07T14:19:00.001-05:00

Frustrated by fragile fingernails? Try this.

Many women are plagued by fingernails that split and crack. What's causing this? Like body shape, skin tone, and hair texture, our nails' ability to grow is largely hereditary -- so if your mom had weak nails, you're likely to have them, too. That said, there are things you can do to avoid much of the splitting:

Protect your nails from water. Keep your hands out of H2O, since water can actually dry out nails, causing them to split. Be sure to wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.

Apply hand cream religiously. Look for a rich formula, which will seal moisture into nails, making them stronger and more flexible. And be sure to slather on cream every time you wash your hands. Dermatologists often recommend Elon Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner.

Limit use of nail polish remover. It contains alcohol and other chemicals which make nails brittle. Use remover no more than once a week.

Buff instead of polish. Nail polish can have a drying effect on weak nails. To get a shiny, polished effect, try a buffer. The friction it creates actually stimulates nail growth.

Keep nail length manageable. Go for no more than a quarter-inch beyond the tip of your finger, and keep nails filed into resilient soft ovals.

If you try the above with no success, consult a dermatologist.

http://www.nailcareguide.com/solution_for_splittingnails.htm

OPI - Blushingham Palace

2010-04-03T11:56:00.002-05:00

Why does nail polish turn nails yellow?

2010-04-03T11:48:00.003-05:00

It’s true, nail polish can turn your nails yellow. Why? There are a couple of reasons:

Color reaction
Some of the darker colored polishes can stain nails due to a chemical reaction between the colorant and the nail plate. This reaction is hard to predict because it doesn’t happen for everybody for every dark color. It can also take a few days to a few weeks to occur.

Formaldehyde
It’s also possible that formaldehyde (one of the ingredients in many nail polishes) is causing the problem. This chemical can react with the keratin protein in your nails and make it brittle and yellow.

Medical issues
Finally, if your nails are really yellowed and disfigured, you may have a nail infection or a more serious medical condition known as Yellow Nail Syndrome.

So what can you do about it? Read on!

Tips for non-yellowing nails:
*Don’t try to scrape off the stained area because it will damage and weaken the nail.

*Stay away from dark colors (which will greatly reduce your fashion options)

*Wear a base coat to protect your nails from staining (this makes sense to us)

*Look for nail polishes that don’t have formaldehyde on the ingredient list. (There’s no guarantee that this will work but hey, it beats this next tip we found from one of the nail polish companies from which is…

*Wear gloves (now there’s a practical idea!)

*Stop wearing polish and wait for your nails to grow out. (Also not too practical, this could take 4 to 6 months.)

*Soak your nails in 1/2 cup of water and juice of one lemon for up to 15 minutes, once a week, according to Sally Hanson. (We’re skeptical if this works but you can always add some sugar and just drink it as lemonade.)

*Buy only yellow shades of polish so you can’t tell if your nails are stained or not. (Sorry, just kidding on that one.)

The Beauty Brains bottom Line:
Nail polish can stain your nails yellow but by choosing the right shades, using a protective base coat, and drinking a lot of lemonade while wearing gloves, you should be able to control the problem.

http://thebeautybrains.com/2010/04/03/why-does-nail-polish-turn-my-nails-yellow/

Weak Fingernails

2010-04-03T11:43:00.001-05:00

Overview
Finger nails are made up of layers of keratin, a type of protein. New cells grow beneath the cuticle, causing old cells to harden and compact. The old cells then grow out toward the fingertips. But as MotherNature.com says, most people do not have the perfect fingernails that we see in magazines. In fact, many people have weak, easily torn fingernails caused by the daily rigors of life. Some people are simply born with weak fingernails.

Healthy Fingernails
According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy fingernails are ridge-free and smooth. They are all the same color and shape. They have no spots or discolorations and may have vertical ridges. The tips, if long enough, should be a whitish color due to the lack of pigmentation found there. Some nail injuries can cause white spots to form, but these spots typically disappear as the nail grows out.

Symptoms of Weak Nails
Symptoms of weak fingernails include thinness and easily broken nails. In addition, they may peel and grow slowly. Weak nails are more prone to cracking or splitting. In severe cases, they can even become painfully detached from the nail bed itself.

Causes
MotherNature.com states that weak nails can mean there are problems elsewhere in the body. Psoriasis, a condition of the skin that can lead to itching, can cause weak nails. Hyperthyrodism, which is an overactive thyroid gland, can also cause weakness. Anemia may also contribute to weak nails. In addition, it can signal a calcium deficiency. However, most fingernail weakness is caused by everyday injury, nail biting or lack of care.

Care
MayoClinic.com suggests keeping your weak nails dry and clean. In addition, trim them often to minimize tearing. Moisturize your nails regularly. When putting lotion on your hands, make sure the lotion is rubbed into the fingernail as well. Don't pick at your nails or bite them. Not only does this cause damage, it can invite fungus into any cuts that the picking or biting may have caused. Use nail polish and hardeners to help strengthen nails.

Remedies
Eating eggs is an easy way to strengthen nails. Wellsphere.com suggests the avoidance of refined flour and sugar, which block absorption of protein. In addition, Vitamin C, nuts and tuna fish are good additions to the diet to encourage stronger nails. Your nails should be protected from cold weather. Gloves should be worn to prevent nails from cracking or splitting. A biotin supplement can also be taken to increase nail thickness.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/77353-weak-fingernails/

Pick Your Nail Shape

2010-03-08T16:22:00.002-06:00

Sharp-corner Square

Totally trendy now. Trends change, but these nails always looks good. This shape looks great with short nails and longer ones too.

Long & Oval
These nails look glamorous, but break easily and make typing more difficult.

Rounded & Short
Good for the active gal who hates to fuss. A low-maintenance manicure.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails

Nail Biting Treatments

2010-01-10T09:59:00.002-06:00

Nail biting is one of these things we all want to get rid of, and we just can’t seem to finally make it. Over the years, many treatments have been created as an effort to put an end to this bad habit. Let’s look at them and see what they are all about:

Hypnotherapy
Don’t be too skeptical. Many nail biters have had great success with hypnosis programs. Since most of the time this is a subconscious activity, it makes sense to treat it from the subconscious point of view. Hypnotherapy will help you cope with your anxiety and stress levels in a more positive way. You can either go to a hypnotherapist for a more personalized session, or you could try an “stop nail biting” hypnotherapy tape.

Medications

When treated form a medication point of view, doctors prescribe anti-depressants for nail biting. These medications include: fluoxetine, clomipramine, setraline, paroxetine, fluvoxamine, citalopram, escitalopram, venlafaxine and nefazodone. Also little dose of anti-psychotics can be used to augment the anti-depressants: ziprasidone, quetiapine, aripripazole, risperidone and olazapine. These are used not because the patient has psychosis, but as a means to augment the power.

Behavioral Therapy

This is a therapeutic method that consists of unlearning bad behaviors. Some patients have found this helpful as they unlearn the habit of nail biting (Habit Reversal Training) and replace it with something of a constructive nature. This treatment seems to work better when combined with medications.

Nail Polishes and Topical Treatments

This may be considered the simple method to stop nail biting. It consists of putting things on your nail that will keep you away form biting them. From nail polish, that makes it impossible for you start biting your nails to natural creams that leave a bitter taste in your mouth while giving your nail its necessary nutrients. This treatment has worked for a lot of people, but it takes time, since it is a process of also “unlearning”.

Sheer Will power

Although this may seem as the obvious treatment to stop nail biting, (Just say stop!) Is in fact one of the least effectives. Often people do things such as post-it notes, New Year’s Resolutions, etc. that get lost in the mind after some weeks. But the process of mastering your mind can be rewarding on its own. If you are ready for the test, just start now, get accustomed to watching yourself, and the times when you start biting your nails. Getting to know yourself is the first step.

http://stopnailbiting.net/nail-biting-treatments.html

Doing Your Nails

2010-01-09T12:52:00.003-06:00

"Doing" Your Nails--How to Give Yourself a Manicure

You will enjoy having nails that look well-cared-for. Nice-looking nails can be an accessory to any outfit. As you know, nail polish comes in about a million colors, glossy or metallic, with or without glitter. Nail polish can be a fun way to express your personality.

Storing nail polish in the fridge extends its shelf life. (When polish is exposed to heat, it thickens and gets hard to apply.) Be careful: Food and chemicals don't mix! To avoid contaminating Mom's favorite leftovers, store polish in a plastic container before chilling. When you're ready to do your nails, rub the bottle gently between your palms to warm it up. Don't shake it; shaking mixes air into the polish and causes bubbles.

Use a fine emery board to shape your nails. Working in one direction only, file from the sides to the center. See nail shapes below.

Give your fingertips a soaking in warm soapy water so the cuticles will soften up. Then dry your fingers.

Push cuticles down with an orange stick.

Buff the nails with a nail buffer, from the tip to the cuticle.

Rub some hand cream into your hands and nails. Make sure to removed it from your nails before you polish them. This will condition your nails.

When you polish your nails, use a base coat of clear, two to three coats of polish and a top coat of clear or "top coat" that you should apply every four days to keep your polish from chipping and lasting longer.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/

Common Nail Problems

2010-01-09T12:46:00.002-06:00

Brittle Nails
These often occur from iron deficiency, circulation problems and other problems of the body's endocrine system.

Discoloration
Cigarettes, hair dyes and even tints sometimes discolor the nails.

Dry nails
Dry skin gets worse in winter and/or colder months, and so does the condition of some nails. Some get brittle, which is why you have to be careful about soaking them in water with chlorine, soap or detergents. Rubber gloves and warm gloves worn outside in cold weather can help.

White spots
Don't believe what you hear. You probably don't have a mineral or calcium deficiency. White spots usually develop because you've hit your nails against something.

Greenish Nails
Greenish nails are usually a result of a localized fungal infection. If you find greenish nails under your nail polish, consult your health-care provider, as there are treatments for this kind of fungal infection.

Ridges
Ridges can appear either vertically or horizontally. Horizontal ridges called Beau's lines can result from severe stress. Some of these ridges are genetic--they're inherited--and get worse as you age. Vertical lines can indicate poor nutrition or iron deficiency.

Sometimes your nail looks as if it's going to literally lift off from the nail bed. It's scary and could be a sign of psoriasis, a skin disorder. Or it might be because your hands are spending too much time in water, detergents or soaps. If this is caused from having your hands in water too much, you might want to consider wearing rubber gloves when washing dishes or doing housework.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/

Nails

2010-01-09T12:36:00.001-06:00

Fingernails are just another type of skin, but not all nails are created equal. The nails protect the nerve-rich fingertips and tips of the toes from injury. Nails are a substructure of the outer layer of the skin, and are composed mainly of keratin, a type of protein. Nails grow at the rate of about 0.05 to 1.2mm per week. The nail bed is the skin on top of which the nail grows. Healthy nail beds are pink to dark pink, which shows a rich blood supply.

Fair-skinned people have pinkish nails, while other people have brown or black ones. But one thing is for sure: Nails often tell a story. The nails can reveal a lot about the body's internal health. Healthy nails are often a sign of good health, while bad nails are often a tip-off to more serious problems. A high-protein diet can help your nails grow stronger and healthier.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/

Pick Your Nail Shape

2010-01-09T12:25:00.001-06:00

Sharp-corner Square
Totally trendy now. Ttrends change, but these nails always looks good. This shape looks great with short nails and longer ones too.

Long & Oval
These nails look glamorous, but break easily and make typing more difficult.

Rounded & Short
Good for the active gal who hates to fuss. A low-maintenance manicure.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/

Nail Fungus

2010-01-09T12:05:00.003-06:00

Overview
Nail fungus (also known as Onychomycosis) is made up of tiny organisms (Tinea Unguium) that can infect fingernails and toenails. The nails of our fingers and toes are very effective barriers. While this usually just makes it difficult for an infection to invade the nail, the barriers can work just as hard to keep infections inside the nail once they've invaded.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, more than 35 million people in the United States get nail fungus. The fungus lives underneath the nail because the nail provides a safe, dark, damp place that actually protects the fungus while it grows. This is why it can be difficult to treat nail fungus.

Most often, nail fungus appears in the toenails because socks and shoes keep the toenails dark, warm and moist. The toenails are six to seven times more likely to be infected than fingernails.

Symptoms
Fungi often cause the area around the base (and sides) of the nail to become red and irritated. At first, the edges or base of the nail is affected. As it spreads, the nail and nail bed show changes. There is often mild discomfort, itchiness or pain around the cuticles (the flesh surrounding the nails). Bleeding or detachment of the cuticles may occur. The nail can become yellow-green, dark yellow-brown and sometimes white spots are seen. The nails thicken and develop abnormal grooves, lines and tiny punched out holes. For more information on symptoms, click here.

Treatment
The best treatment is prevention. Keep your nails cut straight across. If nails are hard to cut, soften them by soaking in salt water (use 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and then dry well). Keep feet dry and well ventilated. Be careful with artificial nails and be selective about choosing your manicurist. Ask about how they sterilize their instruments.

The organisms can sometimes spread from one person to another wherever air is moist and people’s feet are bare. This can happen in places like shower stalls, bathrooms or locker rooms or it can be passed around on a nail file. To avoid contracting nail fungus this way, always wear flip flops in a public shower and don't share nail files and emery boards.

Nail polish and plastic or acrylic nails can also trap moisture and fungi, so use lighter shades of nail polish to help light get through the nail. Also, avoid artificial nails.

Topical creams applied directly to the infected site are often used for less serious infections. Visit the foot care section of your local drug store chain. Creams include Lotrimin, Monistat, Nizoral, Tinactin and Lamisil. If the topical treatments fail, more potent medications can be taken orally if your health care provider thinks it is necessary. For more treatments, click here.

Nails can reveal a lot about the body’s internal health. Healthy nails are often a sign of good health, while bad nails are often a sign of more serious problems. A high protein diet may actually help your nails grow stronger and healthier.

Ask Your Physician
See a podiatrist or health care provider if you see signs of fungus. Oral medications may have side effects, so tell your health care provider about any other medications, including birth control like the pill or Depo-Provera, if you are prescribed an oral medication for fungus.

Find out more about nail fungus and prevention.

/http://www.livestrong.com/article/13863-nails/

It's been a while!!

2009-12-20T13:15:00.002-06:00

Wow - I can't believe how long it's been since I've posted to my blog. Life has kept me busy. Meanwhile my nails are still long but I have lost a few - like my pinkie nails. Sigh, I wish my nails were all the same length. I guess that's the result of natural nails. And no - I am not into fake nails so let's not go there.

Hope everyone has beautiful nails this holiday season. I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to those who read my blog. May you have a prosperous 2010!

Healthy Nails

2009-10-29T10:27:00.002-05:00

Healthy Nails Now

The best way to make sure your nails are healthy is to moisturize them daily, and care for your cuticles. The cuticle is the nail's protection between the exposed dead part of the nail and the matrix, where new cells are generated. Removing the cuticle destroys the nail matrix, which is essential to healthy nail growth. On the other hand, you do want to keep cuticles from becoming overgrown, which suffocates nail growth. The solution: Liberally apply a cuticle remover (not cuticle oil or cuticle cream), which will make the cuticle more pliable. Then, take an orangewood stick and anywhere the cuticle skin touches the nail plate, push it back using tiny circular movements. Hold the stick at an angle so that you do this gradually and gently, without going inside the cuticle. Use a moisturizer daily to prevent dryness.

Eat Right

Though you can't feed the nail directly, a good diet is essential to overall nail health. Biotin-rich foods like eggs, soy, whole grains and liver are said to be extremely helpful to nails, along with foods rich in sulfur minerals like apples, cucumbers, grapes, garlic, asparagus and onions. Also, be sure your diet includes essential fatty acids, or EFAs. Like vitamins and minerals, foods rich in EFA's, such as salmon, nuts, seeds and tuna, help keep nails shiny and pliable.

Do Not Use Your Fingernails as ToolsUsing your fingernails as tools to perform tasks -- pushing back your cuticles or scratching a label off a CD is a no-no! Use proper tools for picking and scraping and not your nails.

http://beauty.ivillage.com/makeup/polishes/0,,7xv5,00.html

Best way to remove hangnails

2009-09-24T10:57:00.000-05:00

Nail technicians remove hangnails with cuticle nippers. The best way to prevent hangnails is to use cuticle cream, oil or lotion that is massaged into the cuticle and nail mantle. Then use a cuticle stick to gently push back the cuticle after you have softened it, which in most cases, eliminates the need to trim cuticles of hangnails.

http://www.leenailscolumbia.com/faqs.html

Nail Corners

2009-09-24T09:29:00.001-05:00

To file or not to file

The corner of your nails should never be filed.

Why? Filing the corners of your nails will weaken the nail and you will find that they will break more easily as a result.

http://free-beauty-tips.glam.com/hands.html

Pedicure - Heavenly Soles

2009-09-03T11:16:00.002-05:00

Pedicure - Heavenly Soles by Lisa Lach

There is nothing more attractive then a woman dressed up or casual looking, wearing open toes shoes, or sandals and her feet look clean and maintained. Keeping those soles heavenly are another thing. If you cannot afford to visit your spa monthly do what the rest of the working world does. Do them yourself! But if you can visit your spa twice a year it really helps. If you can plan a winter Pedicure and a before summer Pedicure at your spa, keeping them maintained in the meantime is simple. Stock up on some products before hand always be prepared.

Foot Scrub

Purchase a good foot scrub. Every Department store carries them and they are made for every type of skin. Soak your feet for a good 10 minutes in warm water then use the foot scrub to exfoliate any dead skin cells. Giving your feet and calf a new smooth layer of clean skin.

Nail File Kit & Cuticle Oil

If you go to a dollar store you can find kits that already have the files and clippers that you need for your Pedicure. Most include scissors and buffers at a great price. Cuticle Oil is not in most stores, but is stocked at most popular spas. After soaking and exfoliating, shape, file and take off any extra cuticle. The hard part is over.

Foot Scrub Brush

The best ones are to get are from the Spas themselves, most are under $20. If that is not your budget Wal-Mart and stores like them carry Foot scrub Brushes for under $10. After filing your toenails, dip your feet back into some clean water or rinse them in the tub using your scrub brush for a nice smooth finish.

Cream

Not just any cream. Try a Tea-Tree cream or peppermint cream for stimulation and scent. Dry your feet thoroughly and apply as much cream as you need.

Base-Coat, Polish and Top-Coat

Any brand will do. Make sure you wipe the cream off your toenails or the nail polish will not adhesive or dry on your nail. A base and topcoat is important because it makes your polish last longer and when you have done all this work, polish should be the least of your worries. The longer your feet look good, the less work for you.

Try this every month in between your Spa Pedicures. It leaves you with O�So-Heavenly soles.

http://free-beauty-tips.glam.com/pedicure.html

Hand Massage

2009-09-03T10:59:00.000-05:00

Hand Massage

To stimulate circulation, rub your palm over the back of the hand and then repeat with the other hand.

This movement is very similar to washing your hands and it does not only stimulate circulation, it also warms the hands.

Water Damage

2009-09-03T10:56:00.000-05:00

Too much water and chemicals

Get into the habit of wearing rubber gloves when you do any cleaning around the house.

The reason? Cleaning agents can be extremely harsh on both nails and hands. The nails when exposed to water, swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.

Soft Hands

2009-09-03T10:53:00.000-05:00

Soft Hands

So your hands don't feel soft anymore?

Before you go to bed, lavish on the Vaseline and then pop on a pair of cotton gloves. Your hands will be incredibly soft by morning.

Brittle Nails

2009-09-03T10:49:00.000-05:00

What to do about brittle nails

The most common nail wreckers are harsh detergents and water, which can stress nail fibers. So be sure to put rubber gloves on while you clean or do dishes.

Also, avoid using perfume lotions that usually contain alcohol if your nails are brittle. It will only make your nails worse.

It may be possible that your calcium intake is low, as well.

Storing Nail Polish

2009-09-03T10:46:00.001-05:00

The best place to store your nail polish

Don't store polish in a warm place as the polish will change consistency.

Contrary to popular belief, it is a good idea to store it in the refrigerator.

Natural Nails

2009-09-03T10:17:00.002-05:00

Tips to Keep Your Nails Strong and Sexy
by Kathryn D'Imperio

When you write down your shopping list, as you punch a phone number into your cell, while you wash dishes, do the ironing, clean the windows, or do one hundred other things that women do on any given day � do you take notice of the condition of your nails?

Our hands are such an integral part of our daily lives, and constantly, we risk their health and strength, often without even noticing, because of the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day activities. Take a few moments each day, or at least a few times a week, to monitor the condition of your nails � the color, the texture, the appearance of ridges or white marks.

Make a greater effort to take good care of your nails, and you will be thrilled with the way they complement your wardrobe and your own personal style. Consider the following tips as a way to enhance the health and quality of your nails.

Great, Healthy Nails

Apply speed-dry nail polish when time is of the essence.

Drink lots of water. Keep your body hydrated everyday to maintain healthy nails.

Fortify your diet with FDA approved vitamins or supplements. Your fingernails count on you to be responsible with your health and your diet. Unless instructed otherwise by your physician, increase your daily doses of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, protein, Vitamin B12, and zinc.

Touch up your manicure on a daily basis to prevent chips and cracks.

Your nails depend on you to maintain a healthy diet. Take in lots.

Nail polish tips:
Finish with a clear topcoat to add gloss and sheen.

Start with a base coat to strengthen and protect the nails.

Store nail polish in the refrigerator to maintain a smooth consistency.

Try not to store nail polish in a room that becomes cold. The nail polish bottles may break without warning, leaving you with a big mess.

To avoid breaking nails or brittle nails:

Avoid using your nails as tools. This means no picking, scratching, digging, pinching, etc. You know who you are!

Increase the amount of calcium in your diet.

Use products containing alcohol, especially perfumed lotions, sparingly. These items can make nails prone to breaking.

Wear rubber gloves when you do chores that involve continual submersion in water or contact with harsh detergents or chemicals.

http://free-beauty-tips.glam.com/natural-nails.html

Long Nails - Sexy or Risky?

2009-09-03T10:15:00.001-05:00

About Long Nails

Long nails on women are considered sexy by many people, but there is caution. According to a study done by Shelly McNeil, M.D., an infectious-disease specialist at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, nails longer than three centimeters (just a bit over one inch) are five times more likely than trimmed nails to carry the pesky pathogens that cause staph and yeast infections.

To be on the safe side, Dr. McNeil warns that you need to be diligent about washing your hands (especially after contact with such germ-prone items as doorknobs, public toilets and gym equipment). You also might want to carry an alcohol-based hand gel that can be used to disinfect your hands when soap and water aren't available.

Note: Acrylics and other falsies can carry more harmful bacteria and are more difficult to disinfect.

http://free-beauty-tips.glam.com/long-nails.html

My most recent manicure

2009-08-17T18:37:00.002-05:00

Is Coconut Oil Good For Nails?

2009-07-14T12:43:00.001-05:00

Nourishing nails
First, it is known that nails are more flexible when the water content is higher. And when you’re nails are more flexible they’re less likely to chip and break. But surprisingly, oil alone does not have much effect on nails. Researchers treated nails with mineral oil showed no increase in flexibility. But when they applied mineral oil to previously hydrated nails their flexibility was increased. This finding suggests the oil itself is not strengthening the nail against breakage, but that the oil can lock in water.

Another experiment showed that an oil and water mixture (specifically a phospholipid-water preparation for those of you keeping score at home) did boost nail flexibility. The researchers theorized that oily material that can bind and seal water in the nails are helpful in improving flexibility (and therefore, strength.)

Second, the same article also pointed out that some materials can penetrate the nail but there was no indication that penetration and strengthening were connected.

The Beauty Brains bottom line
Oil can help keep nails moisturized and keep them strong by making them more flexible so they’re less likely to chip and break. But it appears that using lotion should be better than oil alone, unless you’re hydrating your nails first and then using oil to seal in the moisture.

Source:
J. Cosmet. Sci., 50, 363-385 (November/December 1999) Structural characteristics and permeability properties of the human nail: A review GOURI V. GUPCHUP and JOEL L. ZATZ, College of Pharmacy, Rutgers University

http://thebeautybrains.com/2009/07/14/is-coconut-oil-good-for-nails/

Nutrition for your nails

2009-06-22T10:06:00.003-05:00

Nutritional Steps to Healthy Nails By Corinna Richards

What you eat will reflect on the health of your nails, too.

Lack of vitamin A and calcium causes dryness and brittleness.
Lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C causes hang nails.
White bands across the nails are caused by protein deficiency.
A lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid can cause splitting nails.
Insufficient intake or vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, very rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.
Insufficient zinc can cause development of white spots on the nails.
Cuts and cracks in the nails may indicate a need for more liquids.
Red skin around your cuticles can be caused by poor metabolism of essential fatty acids.

Here are the guidelines to follow for improving the health of your nails:

Eat a diet composed of 50% fruit and raw vegetables in order to supply necessary vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eat foods rich in sulfur and silicon, such as broccoli, fish and onions. Include foods rich in biotin such as soy, brewer�s yeast and whole grains.
Drink plenty of water and other liquids.
You may supplement your diet with royal jelly, spirulina or kelp, which are rich in silica, zinc and B vitamins and help to strengthen your nails.
Drink fresh carrot juice daily, this is high in calcium and phosphorus and is excellent for strengthening nails.
Eat well and your whole body will be better, healthier, more beautiful!

Healthy Nails

Summertime Foot Care Myths

2009-06-08T13:05:00.002-05:00

Summer is here, and many of you will be kicking off your shoes at home, at the beach or in the park. But is that a good thing?

To sort the myths from the facts about your feet, Dr. Tracey Vlahovic, associate professor of podiatric medicine and orthopedics at Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine, offers this information about your tootsies with a caveat -- always check with your doctor before starting any treatment:

Myth: Flats, flip-flops and going barefoot are good for your feet.

Fact: "This is a common misconception, because we always hear about the problems with high heels," Vlahovic said in a prepared statement. "But these three present their own types of problems." Flip-flops provide no support, which can cause plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains and tendonitis. Wearing flats can lead to severe heel pain and blisters, crowding toes and conditions such as hammertoes and bunions. Walking barefoot leaves feet open to cuts, scrapes, bruises, and puncture wounds along with skin issues or nail injuries.

Diagnosis: Flip-flops or flats are fine for a few hours, but you should stretch your Achilles tendon for a bit if you wear them for longer than that, Vlahovic said. Save walking barefoot for around your own home, unless you are at risk for diabetes or have peripheral vascular disease. In those cases, always wear shoes in and out of the house.

Myth: Over-the-counter scrubs and soaks for corns are safe and effective.

Fact: "At-home soaks or scrubs would just exfoliate, not remove corns," Vlahovic said.
Diagnosis: A corn is a buildup of skin with a hard center. This often is caused by a hammertoe in which the toe knuckle rubs against the shoe. To permanently remove a corn, the hammertoe must be corrected so that it stops rubbing against the shoe. Or, just wear shoes with a wider toe box.

Myth: Feet don't need sunscreen.

Fact: "Skin cancer on the legs and feet actually has a high mortality rate due to people forgetting to do skin checks on that area. It's often caught too late," Vlahovic said. "This is due in large part to the fact that many people simply forget to apply or reapply sunscreen to the lower extremities."

Diagnosis: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and with both UVB and UVA protection every two to three hours to the feet. Apply more often if you're going to be at the beach, in and out of the water, or sweating.

Myth: All pedicure salons use sterile instruments, so it's fine to use theirs.

Fact: "Unfortunately, this is not the case with all nail salons," Vlahovic said. "As a result, the instruments can spread germs that can cause nail fungus and bacterial infections."

Diagnosis: Invest in your own nail files, clippers and cuticle sticks, unless you can be sure your nail salon sterilizes its instruments after each use. Also ask the technician if they have a clean bowl or basin or one with individual liners before sticking your feet in the motorized tub.

Myth: It's best to trim your toenails straight across.

Fact: Doing this, and cutting them too short, can lead to ingrown toenails, a true danger for diabetics. Untreated ingrown toenails can lead to infection and possibly an abscess requiring corrective surgery.

Diagnosis: Leave the nail slightly longer, trimming along the natural curve of your toe.

Myth: Soaking your feet in vinegar clears up toenail fungus.

Fact: "Vinegar can't penetrate the layers of the nail to get to the infection site. And without proper treatment, the infection can spread to other nails," Vlahovic said.

Diagnosis: See your dermatologist or podiatrist so they can perform a culture to see if it is definitely a fungal infection. Follow their instructions to the letter to avoid a recurrence.

Myth: Athlete's foot and warts aren't contagious.

Fact: Both are highly contagious, and easily spread in environments such as locker rooms or showers. They are often picked up through small breaks in the skin of the foot bottom.

Diagnosis: Keep your feet clean and dry, don't wear dirty socks and thoroughly clean your bath or shower area. "If one person in the household has it, everyone should be cautious and take proper precautions," Vlahovic said. If you must use a public shower, wear flip-flops.

Myth: Duct tape removes plantar warts.

Fact: Studies have shown duct tape to be one of the many ways to treat warts, but Vlahovic noted that several studies have shown duct tape in no better than a placebo.

Diagnosis: "If you have a plantar wart, don't pick or perform bathroom surgery on it," Vlahovic said "Don't put duct tape on it and expect it to go away, since there is a specific protocol for using it. See your dermatologist or podiatrist for this and other treatment options."

More information

The U.S. National Library of Medicine has more about foot health.

Summertime Foot Care

2009-06-08T12:56:00.002-05:00

With warm, summer days encouraging hiking, sightseeing and hanging out at the beach or by the pool, your feet are working overtime – and, with sandals and flip-flops, they’re at the mercy of the elements!

Here are nine tips for keeping your feet healthy and sandal-ready all summer long.

1. Keep your shoes on. Going shoeless is one of the joys of summer, but be cautious. Sharp stones bruise bare feet, and stepping on rusty metal can let you in for a tetanus shot, so avoid doing outdoor chores while barefoot. When visiting a public pool or using a community shower, be sure to wear flip-flops to prevent athlete’s foot and other conditions.

2. Keep feet clean & dry. Sweaty feet can leave you feeling hot and tired, and moisture puts you at risk for fungal infections. Wash your feet as often as necessary and dry them thoroughly. Dust them with foot powder before you put your shoes on – choose an anti-fungal or fresh-smelling variety. Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row so they’ll have time to dry before you wear them again. Wear acrylic, moisture-wicking socks, and change them when they become damp.

3. Moisturize. Between high temperatures, sun exposure, extra washing, and salt or chlorinated water, it’s easy for feet to develop dry skin and cracked heels. Moisturize your feet with a good cream or lotion, but avoid applying it between your toes. This can cause a moisture build-up that will encourage a fungal infection.

4. Treat your feet to a massage. If you do a lot of walking, relax your feet with a professional foot massage every few weeks. There’s nothing like a foot massage to ease foot cramps and refresh, revitalize and restore sore, tired feet. It’s a great way to relieve stress, too!

5. Make sure your shoes fit. Those sandals might be cute, but that doesn’t mean they’re comfortable! To avoid calluses and blisters, wear shoes that aren’t too tight or too loose, and be sure they don’t rub anywhere. If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, avoid sandals or flip-flops that put a strap between your toes.

6. Take a walk. The best exercise for keeping feet in shape is walking. When you get back from a particularly long walk or hike, soak your feet in tepid water for a few minutes, then elevate them to encourage circulation.

7. Let feet “breathe.” To help them stay dry, feet should be exposed to the air as much as possible when the weather is hot and humid. Sandals, flip-flops and open-toed shoes help give feet a chance to breathe.

8. Beautify feet with a pedicure. Worried that calluses and dry patches will take away from the effect of your adorable new sandals? A professional pedicure is a luxurious treat! Colorful polish adds summer color to the toes, but if you’re worried about chipping, ask the beautician to skip the polish and buff your toenails to a high shine instead.

9. Put on sunscreen. Don’t forget – your feet can get sunburned, too! Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more when your feet are bare or if you’re wearing sandals.

Nail Strengtheners

2009-06-08T12:40:00.005-05:00

You have weak nails. How do you strengthen them?

Unfortunately, if you have weak nails you can't permanently change them. You can, however, do things to make them stronger.

Use a nail strengthener. Many women are confused about how to use these products, so here are a few tips:

Make sure you apply a thin coat, because you'll be applying it daily -- you don't want it to build up too much.
If you're at the beginning stages of growing out your nails, use only a strengthener on your nail plate and apply it every day.
If you want to apply nail enamel, use the strengthener as a base coat and as a top coat. Then continue to apply the strengthening product every day.

Remember, too much strengthening can actually make your nails brittle, so you might want to try a strengthening system. Seche Vite and Nailtique are among the brands that have several strengtheners that range from weak to potent, so you can adjust the product to fit your nails' needs.

Nail Length

2009-06-08T12:32:00.001-05:00

People with short fingers normally have shorter nail beds, so a medium-to-short length for natural nails is best. If nail extensions are preferred, a shorter to medium length extension is best because nails that are too long on a short nail bed will not be well-balanced with the length of the nail bed.

Whether you choose natural or artificial nails, an oval shape is best to help lengthen short fingers.

OPI Mauve-lous Memories

2009-03-30T11:42:00.003-05:00

Manicure Tips

2009-03-25T13:16:00.002-05:00

No need to pay salon prices for a manicure. Use these at-home tips to get polished in minutes!

Chipped polish and ragged hang-nails got you down? Get compliment-worthy hands at home with these tips from esthetic expert Marie Scalogna, owner of New York City-based Spa Chicks On the Go.

Remove. Take off old color with acetone polish remover on a cotton ball. (Note: Don’t use a tissue, it will fall apart and doesn’t absorb the remover well.)

Trim. Cut and file nails to your length of choice. As for shape, there are two main options: square or rounded. And neither form will chip more than the other. “I prefer a square shape,” Scalogna says. “It looks more modern.”

Soak. Rest hands in a bowl of warm water for five minutes. Add two tablespoons of a bath powder or your favorite liquid soap to soften nails. Make sure the water’s not too hot or it will dry out your hands and nails. (If you don't have time, you can skip this step.)

Soften. Apply cuticle oil or lotion on dry hands to nourish and soften rough spots.
Push. Use a cuticle or Popsicle stick to press cuticles back so they don’t get in the way of the polish. Some people prefer to cut their cuticles for aesthetic purposes, Scalogna explains, but it’s best not to do this at home. “Unless you’re a professional, you’re going to end up with cuts all along the side of your nails,” she says. “Just push them back and keep it easy.”

Scrub. Exfoliate hands with a body scrub or homemade mixture of olive oil and kosher salt or raw sugar. Scrub for two to three minutes, then wash thoroughly.

Moisturize. Dry hands and apply a rich moisturizer. Try one of our favorite moisturizers!

Polish. Apply a base coat first, then apply two thin coats of polish. Scalogna’s fave is Power Lunch by Essie, $7. Finish with a top coat if you haven’t used one yet.

For more helpful tips - click here:

http://just-for-mom.kaboose.com/your-gorgeous-manicure.html

New Manicure

2009-03-05T13:57:00.002-06:00

French Manicure

2009-02-24T18:42:00.001-06:00

5 Ways to Ruin Your Nails

2009-02-14T10:57:00.004-06:00

1. Excessive environmental dryness

Are your nails worse in the winter? If your nail condition is literally changing with the seasons, it may be due to humidity. Nails, like skin, are subject to the drying effects of the environment. Solution: If your nails are dry and raggedy in the winter use more lotion.

2. Hyper hand washing

Does your job (or hobby or home life) cause you to wash your hands on some occasions more than others? Washing your hands with soap and water can dry out nails. That could be causing an apparent seasonal change. Solution: Use a mild hand wash instead of bar soap and don’t skimp on the lotion.

3. Damage from drying solvents

Are you engaged in any activities that would expose your nails to solvents? For example, home repair projects (like painting a room or varnishing wood trim) could be seasonal activites that negatively impact the condition of your nails. Solution: make your husband do it. (That’s a suggestion from Sarah.)

4. Negative nail product usage

Do you occasionally use nail hardening products? Since you asked about several Sally Hansen products, I’m guessing you do. Those products do make nails harder but they can also make them brittle and more prone to breaking. That’s because they use a chemical called formaldehyde to cross link the keratin protein in nails. Solution: Skip the hardeners and see if it helps. (And to answer your question about why they have so many products that seem to do the same thing, we have one word: Capitalism.)

5. The horrible heartbreak of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a disease that causes your skin to become red and scaly. About half the people who suffer from this condition also have nail problems, particularly pitting, rippling, and/or splitting of the nail. Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis, so you’ll have to amputate the affected fingers. (Just kidding; I wanted to see if you were still reading.) Solution: If you think psoriasis might be responsible for your nail problems, check with a dermatologist for treatment options.

http://thebeautybrains.com

Brittle Nails

2008-12-23T12:45:00.001-06:00

The most common nail wreckers are harsh detergents and water, which can stress nail fibers. So be sure to put rubber gloves on while you clean or do dishes.
Also, avoid using perfume lotions that usually contain alcohol if your nails are brittle. It will only make your nails worse.
It may be possible that your calcium intake is low, as well.

Maryland woman paints her entire car with nail polish

2008-12-23T12:34:00.002-06:00

Nails this week!

2008-11-10T15:43:00.002-06:00

Quick Hand Treatment

2008-11-03T12:15:00.000-06:00

Hands are the most visible parts of you, but they also take a lot of abuse. You use them in everyday activity, and yet, they are the ultimate accessory. You must give them the same attention you give your face.

* Soften your hands even while you do the dishes. Add a little almond oil (about a teaspoon) to dishwater. The water will soften rought skin while the oil seals the moisture.

* Slough off dead skin cells with a solution made of sea salt lemon. Brush it into hands with an old toothbrush. Do this twice a week to soften hands and remove discoloration.

* Wash hands thoroughly with warm water, then, using a coarse washcloth, rub briskly. While skin is slightly damp, apply a mixture of one teaspoon honey and one teaspoon olive oil. Place hands in small plastic bags, then in a pair of cotton gloves for thirty minutes. The heat helps the treatment penetrate.

* Warm a cup of milk in the microwave for thirty seconds (or until warm, but comfortable to the touch). Soak your hands for five minutes to strengthen nails and hydrate skin. Not only is milk loaded with lactic acid, a natural alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates dead skin, but its high calcium content will strengthen fragile nails.

How fast do nails grow?

2008-10-29T13:18:00.001-05:00

There is no "sure thing" to make nails grow faster. The average adult's nails grow one-eighth of an inch per month. Regular salon treatments, a healthy diet, vitamins, cuticle conditioners and nail strengtheners all can help promote healthy, new growth.

This week's nails!

2008-10-13T20:10:00.005-05:00

New nails!

2008-09-21T11:12:00.002-05:00

Common Nail Questions

2008-09-09T12:30:00.003-05:00

Q: Why do nails split or become yellow?

A: Nails can split or yellow for a number of reasons. Excessive exposure to the elements or chemicals, poor diet, nail biting and other habits can be the cause.

Q: How long will it take for my nails to return to normal after removing my acrylics?

A: If your natural nails were filed properly in the beginning, and if you've been maintaining your artificial nails with regular visits to the salon, your nails will be in good condition after the acrylic nail is removed. Be sure to use a product that will strengthen your natural nails.

Q: How long do artificial nail applications usually last?

A: Artificial nail applications should be maintained every two weeks. It is important to have regular fills because if the acrylic lifts away from the natural nail, moisture and bacteria can accumulate between them. A professional nail technician can spot problem areas better than someone with an untrained eye.

Q: What are gel nails? How do they differ from acrylics?

A: Gels and acrylics are similar in that they both can be used to extend the length of the nails and make them stronger. One advantage of gel services is that they are odorless. Like acrylic, gels can be applied over the natural nail or over artificial nail tips.

Q: How are artificial nail applications maintained?

A: Every two weeks your nail technician will fill in the area near the cuticle between where the natural nail has grown and where the artificial nail or tip is attached. This "fill" includes re-sanitizing and re-applying the acrylic where it has grown out.

Q: Will my natural nails continue to grow under the acrylics?

A: Yes. If your nail technician uses good products, such as the OPI acrylic system, and applies and maintains them correctly. Artificial nails can actually improve the health of your natural nails by protecting them from biting, picking, excess moisture and other elements that can weaken or damage them.

Q: What are the main advantages of artificial nail applications?

A: For people who have a tendency to bite or pick at their nails, there is a 90 percent success rate of stopping with artificial nail applications. There are two reasons for this.

- First, people are less likely to ruin something they've spent time and money on. - Secondly, nail biters are generally inspired by having beautiful hands for the first time in their lives. Ask your professional nail technician about OPI’s Competition Formula 3000™ Advanced Acrylic System. It can give you the long, healthy-looking nails you’ve always wanted!

Q: How long will a basic manicure or pedicure last?

A: A basic manicure or pedicure will last one to two weeks, depending on your lifestyle and the type of service you've had. If, for example, you work in the garden without gloves, your manicure probably won't last long. Artificial nail services, such as acrylics, tips, wraps and gels maintain their fresh appearance much longer.Maintaining your nails between salon visits with OPI products will give your nails a just-manicured look.

Q: Why should I take the time to have my nails professionally manicured?

A: A Beautiful, well-groomed nail is an important part of your overall look. Attractive nails and hands enhance your appearance, whether you spend your days in a kitchen or in a boardroom. A basic manicure takes between 30-45 minutes. Artificial nail services, such as tips, acrylics and gels, average about an hour. The cost is quite reasonable, and the results are well worth it.

http://www.opi.com

Nail Ridges

2008-09-09T12:12:00.000-05:00

There are many different causes of nail ridges. Trauma to the nail, certain medications taken over long periods of time, and chronic health conditions can cause temporary or permanent nail ridges. Vertical ridges are also common as we age.

If ridges are temporary, they will grow out within six months to a year. To diminish ridges, you can buff lightly with a soft buffer, lifting the buffer between strokes to prevent friction heat. Use a light touch; over-buffing can damage nails. Your nail technician should recognize these and treat them appropriately.

My nails this week

2008-07-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

Summer Foot Care

2008-06-29T09:58:00.000-05:00

Summer is here, and many of you will be kicking off your shoes at home, at the beach or in the park. But is that a good thing?

To sort the myths from the facts about your feet, Dr. Tracey Vlahovic, associate professor of podiatric medicine and orthopedics at Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine, offers this information about your tootsies with a caveat -- always check with your doctor before starting any treatment:

Myth: Flats, flip-flops and going barefoot are good for your feet.

Fact: "This is a common misconception, because we always hear about the problems with high heels," Vlahovic said in a prepared statement. "But these three present their own types of problems." Flip-flops provide no support, which can cause plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains and tendonitis. Wearing flats can lead to severe heel pain and blisters, crowding toes and conditions such as hammertoes and bunions. Walking barefoot leaves feet open to cuts, scrapes, bruises, and puncture wounds along with skin issues or nail injuries.

Diagnosis: Flip-flops or flats are fine for a few hours, but you should stretch your Achilles tendon for a bit if you wear them for longer than that, Vlahovic said. Save walking barefoot for around your own home, unless you are at risk for diabetes or have peripheral vascular disease. In those cases, always wear shoes in and out of the house.

Myth: Over-the-counter scrubs and soaks for corns are safe and effective.

Fact: "At-home soaks or scrubs would just exfoliate, not remove corns," Vlahovic said.

Diagnosis: A corn is a buildup of skin with a hard center. This often is caused by a hammertoe in which the toe knuckle rubs against the shoe. To permanently remove a corn, the hammertoe must be corrected so that it stops rubbing against the shoe. Or, just wear shoes with a wider toe box.

Myth: Feet don't need sunscreen.

Fact: "Skin cancer on the legs and feet actually has a high mortality rate due to people forgetting to do skin checks on that area. It's often caught too late," Vlahovic said. "This is due in large part to the fact that many people simply forget to apply or reapply sunscreen to the lower extremities."

Diagnosis: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and with both UVB and UVA protection every two to three hours to the feet. Apply more often if you're going to be at the beach, in and out of the water, or sweating.

Myth: All pedicure salons use sterile instruments, so it's fine to use theirs.

Fact: "Unfortunately, this is not the case with all nail salons," Vlahovic said. "As a result, the instruments can spread germs that can cause nail fungus and bacterial infections."

Diagnosis: Invest in your own nail files, clippers and cuticle sticks, unless you can be sure your nail salon sterilizes its instruments after each use. Also ask the technician if they have a clean bowl or basin or one with individual liners before sticking your feet in the motorized tub.

Myth: It's best to trim your toenails straight across.

Fact: Doing this, and cutting them too short, can lead to ingrown toenails, a true danger for diabetics. Untreated ingrown toenails can lead to infection and possibly an abscess requiring corrective surgery.

Diagnosis: Leave the nail slightly longer, trimming along the natural curve of your toe.

Myth: Soaking your feet in vinegar clears up toenail fungus.

Fact: "Vinegar can't penetrate the layers of the nail to get to the infection site. And without proper treatment, the infection can spread to other nails," Vlahovic said.

Diagnosis: See your dermatologist or podiatrist so they can perform a culture to see if it is definitely a fungal infection. Follow their instructions to the letter to avoid a recurrence.

Myth: Athlete's foot and warts aren't contagious.

Fact: Both are highly contagious, and easily spread in environments such as locker rooms or showers. They are often picked up through small breaks in the skin of the foot bottom.

Diagnosis: Keep your feet clean and dry, don't wear dirty socks and thoroughly clean your bath or shower area. "If one person in the household has it, everyone should be cautious and take proper precautions," Vlahovic said. If you must use a public shower, wear flip-flops.

Myth: Duct tape removes plantar warts.

Fact: Studies have shown duct tape to be one of the many ways to treat warts, but Vlahovic noted that several studies have shown duct tape in no better than a placebo.

Diagnosis: "If you have a plantar wart, don't pick or perform bathroom surgery on it," Vlahovic said "Don't put duct tape on it and expect it to go away, since there is a specific protocol for using it. See your dermatologist or podiatrist for this and other treatment options."

More information
The U.S. National Library of Medicine has more about foot health.

Nail Changes

2008-06-15T10:12:00.000-05:00

Nails change with aging. They grow slower and may become dull and brittle. They may become yellowed and opaque.

Nails, especially toenails, may become hard and thick. Ingrown toenails may be more common. The tips of the fingernails may fragment.

Sometimes, lengthwise ridges will develop in the fingernails and toenails. This can be a normal aging change. However, some nail changes can be caused by infections, nutritional deficiencies, trauma, and other problems.

Check with your health care provider if your nails develop pits, ridges, lines, changed shape, or other changes. These can be related to iron deficiency, kidney disease, and nutritional deficiencies.

Lastest manicure

2008-06-06T11:57:00.000-05:00

Are Sunscreens Bad for Nail Polish?

2008-05-16T14:15:00.000-05:00

Are you surprised more people haven’t asked about this? Why? Because it’s TRUE that sunscreens can soften or dissolve acrylic nails or nail polish. Sunscreen ingredients can be tough to dissolve.

Anyway, it just so happens that some of the ingredients used to dissolve the sunscreen agents also dissolve the kinds of acrylic chemicals used in nail polishes and fake nails. In fact, some of these “dissolving agents” (or emulsifiers, as we chemists like to refer to them) are used in acetone free nail polish removers!

For example, if you look at Cutex’s Acetone Free polish remover, you’ll see that it contains “dimethyl adipate” which is very similar to “dibutyl adipate,” a common emulslifier used in sunscreens. So it’s not surprising that you’re seeing a problem with your sunscreen making your nail polish sticky! And, this problem is only likely to get worse because as new high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreens become increasingly popular, cosmetic formulators will have to add more “dissolving agents” to the product to keep the active ingredients dispersed.

Unfortunately, we can’t just tell you which sunscreens will cause the problem and which won’t. We’d have to test each sunscreen with each type of nail polish before we’d know for sure. That’s not very practical for us do to, but we can give you a tip for testing your favorite products:

How To Tell if Your Sunscreen Will Ruin Your Manicure

Smear a little of your favorite nail polish on a piece of glass (you can use an empty nail polish bottle or even a old compact mirror. Then, take that with you when you’re shopping for a sunscreen. Squeeze a little of the sunscreen product onto your polish smear and see if it softens the film. That should be a pretty good predictor if it will be ok when you actually apply it with your manicured fingers.

Press On Pedicure - hot or not?

2008-05-04T10:04:00.000-05:00

For the woman who has no time on her hands (or her feet) there is the Express On Toe Nail system by Kiss. Each nail comes with very sticky glue attached to the back. When under the gun and you can't get to the salon, you just reach down, apply the nail to the applicable toe and with a press of the finger, you have a pedicured toenail. The nails can be applied for just the evening or will stay on for up to three days.

Express Nails

2008-04-16T13:43:00.000-05:00

How To Do Your Nails Fast
When you are in a rush, decisions have to be made. Prioritize. Do you shape or polish? Do you quick-dry or go the long, slow route? New formulas allow for snap decisions:

Speed-dry enamels are worthy of their name (you can open mail, search for keys, or put on your tightest long-sleeved shirt within seconds), but there's a downside: "As fast as they dry, that's as fast they chip," insists manicurist Elisa Ferri, so save them for emergencies. Take a few extra days out of a fast-dry manicure by doing a daily touch-up with a quick-drying coat.

In the other corner, there are strong, chip-resistant formulas - the tortoise of the polish race. To pick up the pace of these tougher enamels, like L'Oreal Shock Proof, carefully submerge freshly painted nails in a bowl of ice-cold water for 30 seconds to harden still-groopy polish.

Light or sheer shades are best for hasty manicures, Ferri says. "You can even get away with just a wide stripe down the center" rather than painstakingly painting the entire nail.

If a manicure is beyond the repair of a topcoat or two, face facts and call in the remover. You can keep single-use packets of nail polish remover (Cutex and Get Fresh make them) on hand so you can strip away color on the run.

When there is no time for polish, just clean underneath the nails, rub on a buffing cream, and shine them with a chamois buffer.

Tips to keep your nails strong and sexy

2008-04-16T13:26:00.000-05:00

Our hands are such an integral part of our daily lives, and constantly, we risk their health and strength, often without even noticing, because of the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day activities. Take a few moments each day, or at least a few times a week, to monitor the condition of your nails -- the color, the texture, the appearance of ridges or white marks.

Make a greater effort to take good care of your nails, and you will be thrilled with the way they complement your wardrobe and your own personal style. Consider the following tips as a way to enhance the health and quality of your nails.

Great, healthy Nails

* Apply speed-dry nail polish when time is of the essence;

* Drink a lot of water. Keep your body hydrated everyday to maintain healthy nails;

* Fortify your diet with FDA approved vitamins or supplements. Your fingernails count on you to be responsible with your health and your diet. Unless instructed otherwise by your physician, increase your daily doses of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, protein, Vitamin B12, and zinc;

* Touch up your manicure on a daily basis to prevent chips and cracks.

* Your nails depend on you to maintain a healthy diet. Take in a lot of healthy foods.

Nail polish tips

* Finish with a clear topcoat to add gloss and sheen;

* Start with a base coat to strengthen and protect the nails;

* Store nail polish in the refrigerator to maintain a smooth consistency;

* Try not to store nail polish in a room that becomes cold. The nail polish bottles may break without warning, leaving you with a big mess.To avoid breaking nails or brittle nails

* Avoid using your nails as tools. This means no picking, scratching, digging, pinching, etc. You know who you are;

* Increase the amount of calcium in your diet;

* Use products containing alcohol, especially perfumed lotions, sparingly. These items can make nails prone to breaking;

* Wear rubber gloves when you do chores that involve continual submersion in water or contact with harsh detergents or chemicals.

A Handy Nailcare Guide

2008-04-08T15:23:00.000-05:00

Fingernails are formed under the cuticle and grow out toward the fingertip. Thus any injury to the cuticle can affect the nail.

It takes about six months for a nail to grow from cuticle to tip, but nail growth varies from person to person and finger to finger. Thumb and pinky nails grow more slowly than those on the middle and index finger. Male nails grow a little faster than female nails. Fast-growing nails are an indication that you are well-nourished, but no single food promotes nail growth.

Taking vitamins or minerals or increasing protein intake will not strengthen nails. Nor will consuming gelatin, contrary to myth and advertising.

Nail ridges and spots are seldom anything to worry about. Many people have white lines or spots on one or more nails. Vertical ridges or striations are often hereditary and may become more prominent with age. Horizontal ridges are usually the result of small injuries or overzealous manicuring. Most dark-skinned persons have pigmented bands on their nails. Occasionally, however, ridges and other nail abnormalities are a sign of a serious illness.

Splitting nails are usually just another version of dry skin. Fragile nails are sometimes caused by thyroid disorders, anorexia, anemia, or severely deficient diets. But most often they are just a nuisance.

Dryness is an enemy of fingernails. Hot water and soap can dry them; so can gardening or household chores. Keeping nails wet for long periods makes them brittle when dry. Winter is hard on nails, so gloves and a moisturizer are a good idea.

Another enemy is nail products. Cuticle removers contain harsh chemicals that can make your nails drier; so do nail polish and polish remover. Chemicals in nail wraps or “sculptured” nails can damage nails and the nail base. The fewer compounds you apply to your nails, the better.

UC Berkeley Wellness Letter, January 2005

The most popular nail color

2008-04-06T11:49:00.000-05:00

There is one nail color out there that is famous for it's perfect color. Perhaps the most popular -- & most universally beloved -- nail polish color is OPI's 'I'm Not Really a Waitress' . No shock there, huh?

How to give a foot massage

2008-04-05T13:16:00.000-05:00

How does a foot massage sound?

Regardless of whether you're on the receiving end of a foot massage or you're the one giving it, you both will experience many benefits, Even if you are simply massaging your own feet, it can still be a rewarding and satisfying way to end your day.

The giver: Giving a friend or loved one a foot massage is very soothing and calming for you, too, and can actually cause your blood pressure to decrease. It's a very caring, nurturing, and bonding experience to share with another person.

The receiver: Obviously, this is really the best position to be in. Foot massage will help reduce your stress, boost circulation, and relieve blood stagnation from wearing ill-fitting shoes. In addition, it will dramatically relax your body, soothe foot muscles, and undo knots and tension in your toes, balls of your feet, arches, and ankles. It will even soften your feet if a cream or massage oil is applied!

One-on-one: Though not as fulfilling as having your feet massaged by another, self-massage enables you to care for your feet on a regular basis, to de-stress and pamper your feet as you see fit.

Techniques of foot massage

A foot massage can be performed at any time you wish or as part of a home pedicure procedure. The following illustrations depict some standard foot massage techniques that a nail technician might perform on a client during a pedicure. If you do not have a willing partner to give you a massage, never fear. These techniques are just as easily done (with some minor alterations) alone.

If a partner is involved, have the one receiving the foot massage recline against a big pillow on the sofa or bed to fully relax the entire body. Foot massage feels really great if the whole body is at ease.

If you're going solo, find a comfortable chair, preferably one with padded arms and a foot rest, such as a recliner. Sit back, prop one foot in your lap and let the other rest extended in front of you, and massage those feet until they smile.

If using a massage oil or lotion, protect clothing and furniture with a towel or two. Rub oiled or creamed hands together vigorously to warm them before beginning the foot massage. Complete all six steps on one foot before moving on to the other.

Step 1: Stroke the top of the foot

Stroking stimulates circulation and warms the foot. Holding your partner's foot in your hands, on the top of the foot begin a long, slow, firm, stroking motion with your thumbs, starting at the tips of the toes and sliding back away from you, all the way up to the ankle, then retrace your steps back to the toes with a lighter stroke. Repeat this step three to five times.

Stroke the bottom of the foot.

Step 2: Ankle rotations
Loosens joints and relaxes feet. Cup one hand under the heel, behind the ankle, to brace the foot and leg.

Grasp the ball of the foot with the other hand and turn the foot slowly at the ankle for three to five times in each direction. With repeated foot massages, any stiffness will begin to recede. This is a particularly good exercise for those of you suffering from arthritis.

Rotate the foot from the ankle.

Step 3: Toe pulls and squeezes
Toes, like fingers, are quite sensitive to the touch -- this massage can be very calming. Grasp the foot beneath the arch. With the other hand, beginning with the big toe, hold the toe with your thumb on top and index finger beneath.

Starting at the base of the toe, slowly and firmly pull the toe, sliding your fingers to the top and back to the base. Now repeat, but gently squeeze and roll the toe between your thumb and index finger, working your way to the tip and back to the base. Repeat these two movements on the remaining toes.

Gently pull and squeeze the toes.

Step 4: Toe slides
Grasp foot behind the ankle, cupping under heel. With the index finger of the other hand, insert your finger between the toes, back and forth for three to five times.

Slide your fingers between the toes.

Step 5: Arch press
Releases tension in the inner and outer longitudinal arches. Hold foot as you did in Step 4.

Using the heel of your other hand, push hard as you slide along the arch from the ball of the foot toward the heel and back again. Repeat five times. This part of the foot can stand a little extra exertion on your part, just don't apply too much pressure. Push your hand along the arch of the foot.

Step 6: Stroking. Repeat step 1
This is a good way to begin and end a foot massage.

Agony of the Feet Relaxing Massage Oil
You'll need:
2 teaspoons (10 ml) castor, jojoba, soybean, or extra-virgin olive oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop German chamomile essential oil
1 drop geranium essential oil

To make:
Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly. Yields one treatment.

To use:
Use approximately 1 teaspoon (5 ml per foot and massage in completely. Inhale the aroma on your hands before you massage, and continue to breathe deeply, as these particular oils are extremely calming. Put on socks after massage to absorb excess oil and soften feet.

2008-04-05T13:14:00.001-05:00

Too much water and chemicals

Ever notice how dry your nails get...especially after you've had them in water? Get into the habit of wearing rubber gloves when you do any cleaning around the house.

The reason? Cleaning agents can be extremely harsh on both nails and hands. The nails when exposed to water, swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.

8 Color Tips for Nails

2008-04-05T13:09:00.000-05:00

Moisturize cuticles. Cuticle oils penetrate the skin bed best. Don't have cuticle oil on hand? Use a rich hand cream or even lip balm.

Prep nails by filing. File nails in an oval shape just like the curve of your nail base. Square tips could make your fingers look chubby.

It's important to wipe nails with a nail polish remover before applying polish even if you aren't wearing polish. Why? Oils left on the nail (like the hand cream or lip balm) will keep polish from sticking. But don't clean nails with cotton balls. Why? They'll leave little fuzzies on your nails. A better option is to use a makeup sponge or Stripper to Go pads from celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann.

Wrap the tips of your nails with polish. When applying polish, be sure to bring it over the front edge of the nail and slightly under the tip. This helps prevent chipping.

If the polish chips, it's best to remove the paint from the nail and start over. If you don't have time, dip your finger in nail polish remover and smooth over the chipped area and re-apply a topcoat.

Smudged your polish while painting? Try this trick: dip your finger in nail polish remover and use it to smooth the surface, repainting with a topcoat.

The secret to keeping nails from smudging: Dry time! Surfaces will feel dry to the touch after 10 minutes, but don't be fooled. It actually takes an entire hour for nails to completely dry.

When a nail breaks, the best thing to do is to cut it off. But here's a trick if the break is low down (& painful, undoubtedly): cut a tiny strip of gauze from a teabag, place it over the tear & the paint over with polish.

To maintain a fresh polish, add a fresh layer of topcoat every other day.

How long should your manicure last? Experts say one to 2 weeks. A pedicure should last 2 to 4 weeks.

A couple expert tips we've learned over the years:

1. Want to ensure your nails are the right shape? Line each finger up with its opposite, cuticle-to-cuticle.

2. Fingers stained from nicotine, berries or too dark polish? Take a whitening toothpaste (we like Rembrandt & brush away the stains.

3. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat. You'll find it dries faster.