Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Technique

I think I may have scaly skin that's caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. What do I do?

March 1, 2003

Two foot/one hand disease is caused by a dermatophyte fungus. In this condition, both feet and one palm have a scaly, dry appearance and test positive for fungus when scrapings of the flaky skin are tested. Often there is fungus in the toenails and fingernails of the affected hand. Treating with an antifungal medication (oral works best but topical helps too) clears the skin of the palms and soles. There is a fairly high recurrence rate of this fungal condition, so long-term preventative treatment with a topical antifungal cream is helpful. There are many other common skin conditions that mimic this fungal skin problem. Eczema can cause scaling and flaking of the palms and soles and is not related to fungus. Psoriasis can also cause similar symptoms of scaling, peeling, and thickening of the palms and soles. It is important to get the proper diagnosis of the problem so that appropriate treatment is used.Phoebe Rich, M.D.

More FAQ

I have a client with fan-shaped nails that are also very flat.

I have a client with fan-shaped nails that are also very flat. We have tried all types of artificial nail treatments. Everything will be fine until the second or third fill. (She loves beautiful nails and has even tried getting fills every eight days.) She has also tried hard to grow her own natural nails, but nothing seems to work for her. Please help.... read more

What is the main difference between a classic pedicure and a spa-type pedicure?

What is the main difference between a classic pedicure and a spa-type pedicure?... read more

Is it OK to fix a broken enhancement with glue?

Is it OK to fix a broken enhancement with glue? I heard it can cause an allergic reaction or infection that makes the natural nail ooze underneath the enhancement.... read more

How does salon temperature or body temperature affect the acrylic application process?

How does salon temperature or body temperature affect the acrylic application process? Does it cause lifting or cracks?... read more

Why do light-colored polishes get streaky?

When I use light-colored polishes, the polish tends to get streaky. I’ll keep going over it to get rid of the streaks, which then leads to thick polish. What am I doing wrong? Is there a special technique for light or sheer polish application?... read more

I cannot figure out what is causing my client's inability to keep a full set on.

I have a client who has come to me faithfully for two years. My problem is that her nails never stay on no matter what I do. She has gone to several different techs and has always had this problem. She has psoriasis, and very thin, extremely dry skin. One slip of the file and she is a bloody mess. She often comes in with just three nails on-or else they are all on but by the time I nip all the lifted acrylic, she is down to nothing. I feel bad, like it’s my fault, so I only charge her for a fill. She is a very good tipper so charging extra for fall-offs doesn’t seem right to me. But I can’t keep putting full sets on her every two weeks. Any suggestions?... read more

Simple Troubleshooting Keeps Pink and White Separate

Why does the pink get in the white tip when I sculpt nails?... read more

Enhancements Are Not Recommended for Clients with Fragile Nails

I have a client with soft, thin, fragile nails. How can I help her and what kind of services can I do?... read more

Some Acrylic Systems React Differently on Each Client

Do acrylic products act differently on different people? I use the same technique, but I don’t get the same results on everyone.... read more

Glass Files Work Well on Natural Nails

What files work best on natural nails? ... read more

What would cause a toenail to turn brown?

My client says she hasn’t dropped anything on her toenail, but she admits that she picked the nail off at one point and it grew back brown.... read more

How do I use a drill with a sanding band and avoid damage to the nail plate?

I’m thinking about using a drill with a sanding band to prep. How do I use it and avoid damage to the nail plate? I’m concerned about what speed, what grit, and what kind of band, and whether I can use it to remove pterygium.... read more