Manicures and pedicures are often seen as a treat or for special occasion purposes. At The Spa, we see our natural nail treatments as a healthy addition to any beauty routine. Hands and feet endure a multitude of stresses and our nails are often used as tools and abused. Routine nail care is an easy way to keep your nails, skin and muscles ready for the physical demands we ask of them.
Step 1: Nail shaping and Cuticle Care
Clean and manicured nails are more than an esthetic attribute. Our nails serve as protection for fingers and the abuse often shows. Nails can be a breeding ground for bacteria and a proper nail shaping routine helps to prevent our nail beds from holding onto dead skin, dirt and debris. Our cuticles protect bacteria from entering our bodies, however if they are not well taken care of their defenses are not fully functioning. Nourished and exfoliated cuticles help prevent uncomfortable hang nails and infections as well as create a perfect foundation for healthy nail growth. These 2 aspects work together as a solid foundation for proper hand and foot health.
Step 2: Exfoliation
Many people hate the calluses that build on their hands and feet. Truth be told, these calluses are an important part of protecting our skin from damage. However, an over abundance of callus is not necessary and should be removed to maintain good hygiene. The problem with callus removal is, if not properly done, can cause more harm than good. If we remove too much callus our bodies’ natural defenses go into overdrive in order to replace its natural protection, thus resulting in calluses that come back faster and more resilient. Professional exfoliation uses high quality products and implements to help remove and smooth calluses to reveal soft, smooth and healthy skin that continues to function properly. By receiving regular nail treatments, your at home maintenance will be easier, healthier and safer for you and your body.
Step 3: Massage
The massage aspect of a nail treatment is an aspect that helps to soothe our minds and promote relaxation. Along with promoting a sense of relaxation, the massage aspect of a nail treatment is an important part of the health of our hands and feet. The muscles in our hands, feet, arms, legs, fingers and toes are used throughout the day, never getting much of a break. Joints can become stiff and tendons can become sore. Our massage routine helps alleviate muscle tension and stress to bring balance back into those overworked areas. In addition, the use of high quality moisturizers during the massage helps ensure that your skin is nourished and hydrated, which is extremely important in overall skin health and is a main factor in problem nails, damaged cuticles and excessive calluses.
Step 4: Base Coat, Polish, Top Coat.
Whether or not you choose to receive a polish color on your nails, the application of a base and top coat is crucial. A high quality base coat contains nourishing ingredients that promote stronger, healthier nails. Base coats also act as a barrier between your nails and the outside world, protecting it from absorbing odors and liquids that your nails might come in contact with. The base coat also helps smooth any imperfections in the nail, creating a soft, natural finish. When using polish, the base coat also helps prevent color staining as well as helps the polish adhere better, leading to a longer lasting result. The top coat’s purpose is to protect the base coat, allowing for it to bond to your nails longer. However, the top coat’s most important purpose is to simply help protect your nail. Top coats tend to dry harder than base coats and are thicker in consistency, creating an amazing protective layer. When used over polish, top coats also help ensure longer wear of the color, preventing chipping and peeling as well as adding amazing shine. A layer of polish in between the base and top coat is a beautiful addition to your nails.