nail me

[Toughy]

nener ne ner..........made you look.....laughin....

I started this because I came across the Femme Zone thread titled 'nail me'. It made me think about my nails.

So guys...........what do we do to keep our nails in 'tip-top' shape?

I am anally retentive about nails for a couple or three reasons. I am anally retentive by nature and up-bringing. (My maternal grandmother had us pour boiling water over the silverware we just washed).

I spent many years as a med tech and also drawing blood. When someone sticks a needle in your arm you look at their hands. The last thing you want to see is dirty raggedity nails holding that needle.

I also am a dyke and my hands have many uses when it comes to sex. No one wants someone with dirty raggedity nails to get near the bits/stuff/nether regions/_______.

So guys....what is your nail care routine? Do you have one? If not, you might want to think about it.

Me......well I clip my hand nails at a minimum of once a week. I also use a nail file after I clip them to make them smooth and without rough edges. Rough edges are bad....and I don't need to tell you why......well I hope I don't have to tell you that.

I do the same with my toenails. Don't want jaggeded ass nails scraping her beautifully shaved legs.

My ex-wife always wanted to do my toenails. I really had a hard time with that because I HATE my feet being messed with...but I learned to deal with it cuz it made her happy.

Because of mobility issues, I find I am having trouble taking care of my toenails and I know my hand nails will soon follow.

That means I must start going to a nail salon to take proper care of my feet. OMG OMG................I'm lucky I live in the SF Bay Area and there are lots of nail salons in the Castro so masculine folks wanting nails done is not extraordinary. I have concerns about sterility of the tools they use and how you choose a place to do this.

I know the femmes are reading this....<grin>.....so if you have any tips please help us out....tips only.......and

any of us masculine folks...........share your experiences and how you take care of your nails.......

[betenoire]

That means I must start going to a nail salon to take proper care of my feet. OMG OMG................I'm lucky I live in the SF Bay Area and there are lots of nail salons in the Castro so masculine folks wanting nails done is not extraordinary. I have concerns about sterility of the tools they use and how you choose a place to do this.

Hey you. :)

Many nail salons have pedicure kits you can purchase to bring with you every time you go, so that they are using your own stuff on your own nails. Or if they don't sell a kit you can always bring your own stuff.

[suebee]

*grumbling* I didn't even know the guys were ALLOWED to do stuff like this! :blink:

[Metro]

*grumbling* I didn't even know the guys were ALLOWED to do stuff like this! :blink:

Submitted for consideration:

http://www.hulu.com/watch/275691/saturday-night-live-corn-chip-nail-tips

[OS Butch]

Dang...I saw this in the Butch Zone and thought it was gonna be about tools!:cigar2:

[girl_dee]

Be SO careful of where you get your feet done! The places that have the whirlpool tubs are a feeding ground for fungus. Seek out a pedicurist who uses a basin which can be sterilized in between each client. Foot fungus are so easy to get, can last for years and be impossible to get rid of, also can lead to loss of toenails or surgery! This is how a pedicure should be done:

http://i01.i.aliimg.com/photo/v0/112225999/Pedicure_and_Manicure_Copper_Bowls_for_home.jpg


The places like the one i show below cannot sterilize the water coming and going and i cannot tell you how many people that i see in my work are dealing with foot funguses years later because they went to a place like this. They try their best to keep them sterile but it's impossible. If someone comes in with a foot fungus, that water sets in the pipes and gets send back in to the tub where the feet go. Also there are some places that prohibit anyone but a pediatrist to cut the toenails, less experienced techs can cut them too short (ingrown toenails) or nick the skin which invites infection, i get mine filed when i go, never clipped.

http://www.dudechair.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Pedicure-Chairs.jpg



White newer socks are a must, the feet contain over 100,000 sweat glands in each foot, so yah that's a lot of sweat so throw out the old socks and keep the new ones going. Your feet (and lover) will love you for it.

[SugarFemme]

Toughy, I have diabetes and as such, have to be extremely cautious and careful with my feet. When I was first diagnosed, I spoke with the foot doctor who gave me these tips: ALWAYS make sure they have an autoclave for sterilizing the equipment. Another thing you can do to ensure no cross contamination with another person is buy your own and do proper sterilization on them. The other thing that is of utmost importance, is in unit that you will sit in to get your pedicure, there is the "basin" where you will soak your feet. Almost all of them use the spa pedicure unit where they can fill it with water and drain it. Plumbing built in. Not one of those little portable units. Ok, there is a trap for all the nasty bits that trimmed off of peoples feet. You MUST make sure that this trap is emptied every single time they use it. Most shops just drain the water and squirt around some sterilizing chemical. This is not enough. The trap must be emptied. Some shops will use a tool that requires that the manicurist put in a razor blade and they kind of shave away dead skin. Not only is this a way transmitting a host of diseases if the blade is not changed, its not good for your feet. It causes more cracking on the heels. Tell them in ADVANCE that you do not want this done and to just use a pumice stone. And as far as a pumice stone, go to Sallys and get your own. Keep it in a baggie after it has dried. always bring it home with you. I know this is very detailed, but it is meant to keep you as safe as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me.





nener ne ner..........made you look.....laughin....

I started this because I came across the Femme Zone thread titled 'nail me'. It made me think about my nails.

So guys...........what do we do to keep our nails in 'tip-top' shape?

I am anally retentive about nails for a couple or three reasons. I am anally retentive by nature and up-bringing. (My maternal grandmother had us pour boiling water over the silverware we just washed).

I spent many years as a med tech and also drawing blood. When someone sticks a needle in your arm you look at their hands. The last thing you want to see is dirty raggedity nails holding that needle.

I also am a dyke and my hands have many uses when it comes to sex. No one wants someone with dirty raggedity nails to get near the bits/stuff/nether regions/_______.

So guys....what is your nail care routine? Do you have one? If not, you might want to think about it.

Me......well I clip my hand nails at a minimum of once a week. I also use a nail file after I clip them to make them smooth and without rough edges. Rough edges are bad....and I don't need to tell you why......well I hope I don't have to tell you that.

I do the same with my toenails. Don't want jaggeded ass nails scraping her beautifully shaved legs.

My ex-wife always wanted to do my toenails. I really had a hard time with that because I HATE my feet being messed with...but I learned to deal with it cuz it made her happy.

Because of mobility issues, I find I am having trouble taking care of my toenails and I know my hand nails will soon follow.

That means I must start going to a nail salon to take proper care of my feet. OMG OMG................I'm lucky I live in the SF Bay Area and there are lots of nail salons in the Castro so masculine folks wanting nails done is not extraordinary. I have concerns about sterility of the tools they use and how you choose a place to do this.

I know the femmes are reading this....<grin>.....so if you have any tips please help us out....tips only.......and

any of us masculine folks...........share your experiences and how you take care of your nails.......

[Toughy]

*grumbling* I didn't even know the guys were ALLOWED to do stuff like this! :blink:

you know I get you are trying to be funny, but it's not funny to me......

Guys get crap about being 'butch enough' all the time and personal hygiene stuff is one of those places it happens. Hair products and lotions fit in this category also.

Thanks to the femmes who have offered up tips about nail salons.

Come on guys.....I know I am not the only butch who takes care of my nails.

by OS Butch
Dang...I saw this in the Butch Zone and thought it was gonna be about tools!

In my mind nails are tools!!! Tools of the loving touch.

I would be willing to say that part of being old school is taking care of your nails (and skin). What do you think about that?

[luv2luvgirls]

*snickers* and here I thought we was gonna talk shop about nails..

[Medusa]

I can't wait to get Jackhammer in here!

[vixenagogo]

That means I must start going to a nail salon to take proper care of my feet. OMG OMG................I'm lucky I live in the SF Bay Area and there are lots of nail salons in the Castro so masculine folks wanting nails done is not extraordinary. I have concerns about sterility of the tools they use and how you choose a place to do this.

I know the femmes are reading this....<grin>.....so if you have any tips please help us out....tips only.......and

any of us masculine folks...........share your experiences and how you take care of your nails.......

Toughy...

there are many places in the castro. the one i go to is right next to the castro theatre (the castro nail salon). it is very clean (they use an autoclave). in addition to cleanliness, they are very skilled and professional (using the most up to date equipment.)they have a mani/pedi special from 10am-2pm for $29.

they are quiet busy during holidays, weekends or if the weather is nice. they always serve bottled water, tea or white wine complimentary and mimosas on sundays (it is the castro after all). and they also have a loyalty program (frequent filer card): a free mani or pedi with every 10 mani/pedi.

http://pics3.city-data.com/businesses/p/8/8/4/9/7848849.JPG

[Apocalipstic]

Great thread Toughy!

A Butches hands are a sexual organ and as such should be kept groomed and clean. Gnarly nails are a turn off!

Lots of Men groom, it bugs me that so many people think Butches should not.

For those of you who have never had a mani or pedi they do not have to use polish, they can clean you up and buff.

[Toughy]

I am starting to have trouble with split nails. They are also getting brittle and have ridges/lines running the length of the nail (both hand and toe). Are there products that will help with these problems? And I don't want stuff like clear nail polish that will make my nails all shiny....yuk

---------------
ty vixen.....I walk by that place all the time....

[Medusa]

Hoof cream from feed stores works wonders ;)

[Toughy]

Hoof cream from feed stores works wonders ;)

laughin.............well you can't call that a girly product fer sure.....

[MrSunshine]

Hey Toughy, it's funny, in a messed up way, I can't stand for my feet to be touched either.

What really caught my attention was your post about the condition/problems you are having with your nails. It sounds like a vitamin deficiency. Mine have to be constantly monitored so I'm use to different things coming up like this. It's worth checking into anyway. Then there's Medusas route :/

[Toughy]

Hey Toughy, it's funny, in a messed up way, I can't stand for my feet to be touched either.

What really caught my attention was your post about the condition/problems you are having with your nails. It sounds like a vitamin deficiency. Mine have to be constantly monitored so I'm use to different things coming up like this. It's worth checking into anyway. Then there's Medusas route :/

I'm going to have to butch up and go the pedicure route because of left hip problems that don't let me bend or get my leg/foot in a position to do the pedi myself........icky poo to somebody messing with my feet...

I'm on a bunch of meds that are most likely causing the nail issues, but I will double check with my rheumatologist and see what she thinks.....good suggestion....thanks

[JustJo]

I am starting to have trouble with split nails. They are also getting brittle and have ridges/lines running the length of the nail (both hand and toe). Are there products that will help with these problems? And I don't want stuff like clear nail polish that will make my nails all shiny....yuk

---------------
ty vixen.....I walk by that place all the time....

Hoof cream from feed stores works wonders ;)

Eating gelatin helps too.....if you don't like regular jello you can get unflavored gelatin and add it to smoothies and such.

[girl_dee]

Hey Toughy, it's funny, in a messed up way, I can't stand for my feet to be touched either.

What really caught my attention was your post about the condition/problems you are having with your nails. It sounds like a vitamin deficiency. Mine have to be constantly monitored so I'm use to different things coming up like this. It's worth checking into anyway. Then there's Medusas route :/

Are you ticklish or just don't like your feet touched? There are over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot so it is a highly sensitive place.

[weatherboi]

i self manicure. i have a pumice stone that keeps my callouses tame. i keep my hands trimmed and smooth the best i can for what i do. i have a couple of nails on one hand that grow funny due to a dog biting it very badly in my twenties and when the fingers all healed up the nails never grew the same again so i don't really like people messing with my hands.

i love pedicures with the added leg scrub and massage. i don't do them often anymore. Men are always there when i go, at least one. What i like about it is as i get older the pads on my feet need to be attended to more often and the regular pedicure does this. i think it is healthy to attend to the nails and pads and having somebody else do it feels pretty good once i got past somebody messing with my feet.


i also use this on my feet and hands...it is great stuff!
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21%2BI9TwtvDL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[MrSunshine]

Are you ticklish or just don't like your feet touched? There are over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot so it is a highly sensitive place.

I can't stand to have my feet touched. It's been this way since I was very little. I remember my mom having to take me to the floor and hold my leg in the scissors hold just to clip my toenails. I'd flop around like a fish out if water until I was exhausted. I'm surprised she never put me in a full Nelson. LoL

[tara_kerrie]

[QUOTE=Toughy;573671]you know I get you are trying to be funny, but it's not funny to me......

Guys get crap about being 'butch enough' all the time and personal hygiene stuff is one of those places it happens. Hair products and lotions fit in this category also

I agree Toughy. I hate when people say I am not 'butch enough' because I love getting pedi's.

[MsMerrick]

Dang...I saw this in the Butch Zone and thought it was gonna be about tools!:cigar2:

If you all don't know your hands are "tools" ;) Then what can I add but.. You are missing out !

[tara_kerrie]

If you all don't know your hands are "tools" ;) Then what can I add but.. You are missing out !

I know my hands are tools.

[MsMerrick]

I am starting to have trouble with split nails. They are also getting brittle and have ridges/lines running the length of the nail (both hand and toe). Are there products that will help with these problems? And I don't want stuff like clear nail polish that will make my nails all shiny....yuk



I take magnesium and calcium, in a Greens base ( available at TJ's ) , and have for years.. I suspect that's why my nails are so strong ;)
There's lots of stuff for your cuticles, olive oil being one of them, not sure about the brittle nails part, except vitamins etc.. I suspect internal things are what help that ...

[starryeyes]

I also am a dyke and my hands have many uses when it comes to sex. No one wants someone with dirty raggedity nails to get near the bits/stuff/nether regions/_______.

Can I get an AMEN up in here!?

[Rockinonahigh]

Hoof cream from feed stores works wonders ;)

I used this stuff for years on my horses feet,I always got it on my hands cause I rubed in on the hoof and hair line with my hands insted of useing a sponge or paint brush,it still works really good on hands and feet.Me being diabetic I take realy good care of my hands a feet.

[Apocalipstic]

I also am a dyke and my hands have many uses when it comes to sex. No one wants someone with dirty raggedity nails to get near the bits/stuff/nether regions/_______.

Can I get an AMEN up in here!?

Amen mah Sister!

[Toughy]

I can't wait to get Jackhammer in here!


so where is Jack.......I know she takes care of her nails being the old school butch she is

[Abigail Crabby]

There's nothing Unbutch about a butch getting a mani/pedi

I think someone who cares enough about their appearence to do this is
AOK in my book.

I know Da Schmooze wouldn't mind my saying he gets both - no nail polish please lol but I love that he likes taking care of himself. In fact when he was here for Christmas we found the most deeliteful salon with the best pedicures ever.

I am diabetic and very careful who touches my feet - autoclave a must and this salon has tools individually wrapped after autoclaving before they touch anyone's feet. No razor blades near my feet please.

Now for me I want to go to Virginia and have the fish pedicure -you can google it - it's on my bucket list for the summer.

Whether you do it yourself, or give in to the luxury of someone else giving you great hands and feet - I say Rave on Butches and Femmes

[AtLast]

I take magnesium and calcium, in a Greens base ( available at TJ's ) , and have for years.. I suspect that's why my nails are so strong ;)
There's lots of stuff for your cuticles, olive oil being one of them, not sure about the brittle nails part, except vitamins etc.. I suspect internal things are what help that ...

I just have very strong and thick nails- hands & feet. When I go to my foot doc. he clips my toe nails with bone cutters! Truth!

It seems to me that often, hands and forearms are favorites about butches via femmes- so doesn't it make sense for us to take care of our fingernails? A mani and pedi feel great and look great and of course butches do both! At least this one does.

[pinkgeek]

Toughy...

there are many places in the castro. the one i go to is right next to the castro theatre (the castro nail salon). it is very clean (they use an autoclave). in addition to cleanliness, they are very skilled and professional (using the most up to date equipment.)they have a mani/pedi special from 10am-2pm for $29.



Castro Nail Salon doesn't autoclave they use UV which if it's over a long enough period is an acceptable method of killing most microbes and fungus. Autoclave set at over 115-130 degrees (depending on the wrap) is always the safest bet. They do like to cut the cuticles which I never let them do. They have the whirl pool tubs and they clean the traps, and cycle the tubs with a disinfectant that I didn't investigate too closely.

HandJob is further up the Castro. Slightly more expensive and they use basins which I prefer.

[justkim]

Manicure's and pedicure's are sexy. Since this is what I do for a living, I would much rather be the one doing my sig others nails...whether it be hands or feet.
I would suggest using single use items an Emory board and a orange wood stick are single use. Whirlpool foot spa's are nice but they tend to be a breeding ground for fungus. You can put all the cleaner and disinfectant into a whirlpool all you want but if you (nail tech) don't follow the directions on the bottle it won't matter. Most need to be filled, the chemical put in and ran for about 15 minutes, drained, filled again, then ran again for another 15 minutes, drained, rinsed out then dried. That right there is a half hour, between clients. They should also have a nightly and weekly cleaning schedule. *State board requires these things. Each state maybe different. But when it comes to sanitation they all seem to be about the same.
I use disposable foot-bath trays, this gives me the ability to get more pedicures done when I have back to back clients. I also keep an extra set of clippers, nipper, and tweezers. By doing this it allows me to follow the disinfectants directions to the *T*.
Find out what your state requires.
Anyway... Well taken care of hands and feet are very SEXY... it is one of the first things I look at...

Stay safe!

[suebee]

you know I get you are trying to be funny, but it's not funny to me......

Guys get crap about being 'butch enough' all the time and personal hygiene stuff is one of those places it happens. Hair products and lotions fit in this category also.

Yes. It was meant as a little good-humoured ribbing. I do get the "not butch enough" crap. My apologies if I offended anyone.

My wife takes care of her nails. One of our little quiet-time rituals is to file each other's nails. And as has already been mentioned, nice smooth nails are a pleasure to be touched with. :rrose:

[Ms. Tabitha]

Some shops will use a tool that requires that the manicurist put in a razor blade and they kind of shave away dead skin. Not only is this a way transmitting a host of diseases if the blade is not changed, its not good for your feet. It causes more cracking on the heels. Tell them in ADVANCE that you do not want this done and to just use a pumice stone. And as far as a pumice stone, go to Sallys and get your own. Keep it in a baggie after it has dried. always bring it home with you. I know this is very detailed, but it is meant to keep you as safe as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me.

I personally love the blade. I use it one at home on our feet and we also have it done at the nail salon. The establishment we use in in Vegas and they are sanitary and after the use of the blade I have watched them dispose of it.
I have also gone to Sallys purchased pedi supplies for those times we don't have time to run to the salon.

It is a good idea to keep your own supplies handy especially for those that jump from salon to salon, great idea OneOfAKind

[Okiebug61]

There's nothing Unbutch about a butch getting a mani/pedi

I think someone who cares enough about their appearence to do this is
AOK in my book.

I know Da Schmooze wouldn't mind my saying he gets both - no nail polish please lol but I love that he likes taking care of himself. In fact when he was here for Christmas we found the most deeliteful salon with the best pedicures ever.

I am diabetic and very careful who touches my feet - autoclave a must and this salon has tools individually wrapped after autoclaving before they touch anyone's feet. No razor blades near my feet please.

Now for me I want to go to Virginia and have the fish pedicure -you can google it - it's on my bucket list for the summer.

Whether you do it yourself, or give in to the luxury of someone else giving you great hands and feet - I say Rave on Butches and Femmes

Thank you! Red convinced me years ago to have a pedicure because I was beating the pavement when I sold cars for a living. I became hooked because it feels so dang good. It's an outing Red and I share and I love it. I get my fingernails trimmed about once a month because my nails grow so fast. I am proud to say I love pedicures and tomorrow is our day.

Yeah!

[girl_dee]

For those of you who enjoy pedicures because they feel good you should try a Reflexology session!!!! It's so wonderful! Great for circulation and a ton of other things!

http://www.serenergymassage.com/art/reflexology_web.jpg

[MsMerrick]

I take magnesium and calcium, in a Greens base ( available at TJ's ) , and have for years.. I suspect that's why my nails are so strong ;)
There's lots of stuff for your cuticles, olive oil being one of them, not sure about the brittle nails part, except vitamins etc.. I suspect internal things are what help that ...

TJ's = Trader Joes
but I took other brands for many years.. :) TJ's only moving into my neighborhood rather recently :)

[Toughy]

*snickers* and here I thought we was gonna talk shop about nails..

you know I was going to let this go, but I can't mostly because this feels like a butch is making fun of those of us who take pride in ourselves. Taking care of myself is nothing to *snicker* about.

and.......we ARE talking shop about nails. Why don't you join in instead of the snide sounding *snickers*?

If I am taking your post wrong, then please come in and let me/us know. I will be happy to apologize for this post.

Thanks to all the butch folk who have posted. I'm learning things and I like that.

[La Perla]

i love seeing well manicured butch hands, feet, hair, well pressed clothes. i find the attention to detail sexy.

[princessbelle]

I'm going to have to butch up and go the pedicure route because of left hip problems that don't let me bend or get my leg/foot in a position to do the pedi myself........icky poo to somebody messing with my feet...

I'm on a bunch of meds that are most likely causing the nail issues, but I will double check with my rheumatologist and see what she thinks.....good suggestion....thanks

One other idea about your splitting nails is harsh chemicals can/will do that. If you wash your hands a lot try a milder soap or milder lotion. Chemicals can wreak havoc on your nails and cuticles. Keeping your hands in water a lot can add to the problem too. Make sure you dry your hands off good after washing and dry under the nail if they are long enough.

Also, of note...problem nails can be caused by getting a little older, medications, like you suggested, and diseases such as anemia. So, just putting this out there... If anyone sees a dramatic change in their toenails or fingernails...get it checked out with a Doc.

It is sexy as all get out when a butch has beautifully manicured nails.

Great thread.

[Toughy]

oh no you did nt..........laughin..................getting a 'little' older??????????????????

bully will take care of that for me since she is turning 50..............and happy bday to her....

[princessbelle]

oh no you did nt..........laughin..................getting a 'little' older??????????????????

bully will take care of that for me since she is turning 50..............and happy bday to her....

LOL

Hey i'm right behind her. It is still a little gratifying that she is doing it several months prior to me.

Hmm. Come to think of it, i've never dated a 50 year old woman before.

Sorry for the de-r(n)ail.

OMG i need sleep.

Night all!!!!

[luv2luvgirls]

you know I was going to let this go, but I can't mostly because this feels like a butch is making fun of those of us who take pride in ourselves. Taking care of myself is nothing to *snicker* about.

and.......we ARE talking shop about nails. Why don't you join in instead of the snide sounding *snickers*?

If I am taking your post wrong, then please come in and let me/us know. I will be happy to apologize for this post.

Thanks to all the butch folk who have posted. I'm learning things and I like that.



If I had seen this earlier I would have replied right away, thank you for bringing it to my attention Toughy.. let me start off by saying you have no need to apologize at all
let me apologize for even making you feel uncomfortable in any way. I truely apologize. My snicker was actualy at myself because I thought it was about something else and it seemed ok since you started your post with nener nener made ya look :) So yeah I was thinking like that too...

I mean no offinse as I myself like to be clean with my swagg at all times. We all do it in our own way no way being more butch than the next. Toughy it is a great thread and one we needed thanks for posting it.

Sincerly,
Ri

[Toughy]

No worries about replying..........it's not been that long and we all have lives...

Thanks for your response. Absolutely I get why and what you meant.........I did start it with nener ne ner. Thanks for coming back ..........

<grin>......I am soooooooooo glad I didn't go off like a rocket and make a big ass out of myself...... with both suebee and luv2

I want to thank both suebee and luv2 for coming back. This could have gotten ugly and it didn't. That's a good thing.

as to swagg.....laughin.........the femmes seem to like this being part of butch swagg...

pay attention guys......

[Dude]

I neatly (anally) trim mine , so no whites are showing.
Dirty nails gross me the hell out.
I cant handle files grinding on me , anywhere. :|

Feet trust _ I do not have it.
I've only had that a few times in my life.

Before my mom passed, she had a request that me and my
sisters all go get our nails "did" together.
She had me over a barrel and knew it.
I did everything before going so all that was left was filing ( or trying to) :sigh:

I nearly kicked the lady messing with my feet, twice.
Her speaking more english would have been very helpful , for me.
It's a trust thing ,sort of like who does your hair , amplified
by 100 :twitch:

[bright_arrow]

Bard and I have gone for pedi's once, it was pretty fab! A first for me, but I am super ticklish, so I had a LOT of trouble staying still for the massage. Hy will rub my foot for me with a peppermint+plum lotion, and I loveeeee it :bunchflowers:

Hy oftens clips/files hys nails - they grow fast, and rather thick.. Mine like to peel =/ I think mayhaps all the nail polish and nail polish remover beating them up.

We plan to get a mani prior to the wedding.

Our friend that did the pedi has her own salon. Otherwise, neither of us really like people touching our feet. I don't mind hym touching my feet though :tea:

[Rivkeh]

Mine like to peel =/ I think mayhaps all the nail polish and nail polish remover beating them up.

We plan to get a mani prior to the wedding.


...you could try a vitamin/mineral nail supplement that contains silica, we have one here made by 'Swisse' but not sure if you could get it there. Nails doing that may mean there is a deficiency in your diet that a supplement could really help :)

[JoSchmooze]

you know I was going to let this go, but I can't mostly because this feels like a butch is making fun of those of us who take pride in ourselves. Taking care of myself is nothing to *snicker* about.

and.......we ARE talking shop about nails. Why don't you join in instead of the snide sounding *snickers*?

If I am taking your post wrong, then please come in and let me/us know. I will be happy to apologize for this post.

Thanks to all the butch folk who have posted. I'm learning things and I like that.

As Abigail Crabby pointed out,
I do indeed go for regular pedis - but pedis only....
It started when I had my first knee surgery
(about 20 years ago) and I really was uncomfortable
gettting my hands down to my feet....
Over the years it continued because I got so damned big that I
just couldn't reach my feet!
I wouldn't stop going because it does feel good!
But I take care of my own hands as the salon where I go won't
cut my fingernails as short as I like them.....
End of story.....

:cowboy:

[EnderD_503]

I think all this "manicure" "pedicure" stuff is also a class issue which kind of sucks. You don't need to have a "manicure" to to be "clean," and I think that getting manicure or giving yourself one has more to do with what people like to do for themselves than any actual realistic hygiene issue. Personally, I just cut my nails frequently because I can't stand to have any nails at all. It drives me up the wall at work or just generally going about my day. Never filed or done anything particularly special and never run into any issue because of it. I think people exaggerate a little at times when it comes to this stuff.

[DapperButch]

I think all this "manicure" "pedicure" stuff is also a class issue which kind of sucks. You don't need to have a "manicure" to to be "clean," and I think that getting manicure or giving yourself one has more to do with what people like to do for themselves than any actual realistic hygiene issue. Personally, I just cut my nails frequently because I can't stand to have any nails at all. It drives me up the wall at work or just generally going about my day. Never filed or done anything particularly special and never run into any issue because of it. I think people exaggerate a little at times when it comes to this stuff.

I hear what you are saying, but I think that the thinking behind the creation of the thread (being butch doesn't mean you can't pamper yourself), is a good one.

I would never get a manicure/pedicure either, but I don't think it is a "class" issue; I think it is people choosing to budget their money for this service. Maybe they don't hit Starbucks 5 days a week like many people do, so they have the extra cash to get this done.

I don't read what is being expressed in this thread as people viewing others as not being "clean" if they don't get manicures/pedicures.

[EnderD_503]

I hear what you are saying, but I think that the thinking behind the creation of the thread (being butch doesn't mean you can't pamper yourself), is a good one.

I would never get a manicure/pedicure either, but I don't think it is a "class" issue; I think it is people choosing to budget their money for this service. Maybe they don't hit Starbucks 5 days a week like many people do, so they have the extra cash to get this done.

I don't read what is being expressed in this thread as people viewing others as not being "clean" if they don't get manicures/pedicures.

A few posts talked about manicures and pedicures as hygienic, which I think is definitely making a statement about people who don't or can't get them, whether they intended it to be that way or not (not saying they said it maliciously, but still has the same implication). And since not everyone has the financial luxury to be able to budget beyond having enough money for what they need, I do think its a class issue if its something you're paying someone else to get done. All I was trying to say is its fucked up when people assume that certain things that are a matter of material luxury are matters of personal hygiene instead of a luxury.

[Passionaria]

A few posts talked about manicures and pedicures as hygienic, which I think is definitely making a statement about people who don't or can't get them, whether they intended it to be that way or not (not saying they said it maliciously, but still has the same implication). And since not everyone has the financial luxury to be able to budget beyond having enough money for what they need, I do think its a class issue if its something you're paying someone else to get done. All I was trying to say is its fucked up when people assume that certain things that are a matter of material luxury are matters of personal hygiene instead of a luxury.

Hey E,
I don't think you "have to" pay money to have manicured hands and feet. If you have it, great, but you can do your own, or have someone who loves you do it for you. I think the later is even more delicious than going to the salon! It's the trimming, scrubbing, cuticle tidying, etc that give the clean well groomed "hygienic" look, which I have to agree is attractive. Does not matter how you keep yourself groomed, as long as it happens!?

Right now I have to do my own, and it's cool, lol my painting needs work but....whatever.

[Random]

I think all this "manicure" "pedicure" stuff is also a class issue which kind of sucks. You don't need to have a "manicure" to to be "clean," and I think that getting manicure or giving yourself one has more to do with what people like to do for themselves than any actual realistic hygiene issue. Personally, I just cut my nails frequently because I can't stand to have any nails at all. It drives me up the wall at work or just generally going about my day. Never filed or done anything particularly special and never run into any issue because of it. I think people exaggerate a little at times when it comes to this stuff.

I'm going to have to disagree with you on this one...

I know/have known more than a handful of people who can't afford cars/computers/daily starbucks/eatting out, ect...

BUT they get their hair and nails done like clock work every two weeks..

I don't think it's a matter of class, but a matter of what is important to someone...

I love thrifting/resale stores/ junk stores....

They are my reward for getting up and going to work...

Back when my kid was in HS (Private) I was poorer than hell.. (you support three people, plus tuition and all the stuff that goes along with having a teenager and a partner in college full time on 11 bucks a hour... you learn now to be functual poor) I would walk to work vs taking the bus to save my bus fare so I could go thrifting once a month...

If something is not important to you, then you might think that it's a unness luxury that only people of a certain class can afford... But if it's important to you, you find a way to make it happen...

[Toughy]

I think all this "manicure" "pedicure" stuff is also a class issue which kind of sucks. You don't need to have a "manicure" to to be "clean," and I think that getting manicure or giving yourself one has more to do with what people like to do for themselves than any actual realistic hygiene issue. Personally, I just cut my nails frequently because I can't stand to have any nails at all. It drives me up the wall at work or just generally going about my day. Never filed or done anything particularly special and never run into any issue because of it. I think people exaggerate a little at times when it comes to this stuff.

I understand what you are saying, but I certainly didn't/don't mean you have to pay money to get a manicure or pedicure. Being clean and having good personal grooming/hygiene is not a function of money or class in my way of thinking. As I said, I get a manicure every week and I do it myself. It consists of cutting my nails and filing off the rough edges. My toenails are not done as often and I have to figure out some way to deal with pedicures. My very tight budget is going to have to be changed because my ability to do my own pedicure is being severely limited. I'm not so sure I would say folks exaggerate this issue, that seems a bit judgmental.

One of the reasons I started this thread was to help dispel the myth that masculine folks do not take care of our nails.....manicure and pedicure. It is a 'girly' thing to take care of your nails. I am not 'butch enough' because I take pride in trimmed nails and clean hands and feet. I have received reps from masculine folks for starting this thread because they get shit about it from other masculine folks or femmes or partners.

I do understand there can be a charge around words like hygiene and clean. I also understand how folks could think manicure and pedicure mean money changing hands. I don't think that way. Thanks for bringing it up and giving me the chance to clarify what I mean.

And I totally get the can't stand having nails at all..............I'm the same way and so are others in this thread....

[Toughy]

I just looked at my last post and saw the red thumbs down avatar at the very top. I did not mean for that to be there.....I must have somehow accidently clicked on it when I was writing that post. I don't think anything Ender has said should have a thumbs down connected to it. My apologies.

[willow]

Neat clean hands and nails are one of the first things I notice on someone, anyone. No matter how you identify, there is just no excuse for dirty, scruffy finger nails. Be it a DIY job with a nail brush and clippers or a long pampering at a salon. Just do it. ;)

[clay]

Great thread, Toughy!!!!
For myself, I could care less what anyone else thinks about me getting a pedi....it is just a"feel good", "look good" and nice way to pamper myself.
My GF treated me to one a couple weekends ago, as I couldn't afford one. Being with mobility issues and unable to reach my feet to do them myself, this is a luxurious necessity for me...and she does my feet sometimes as well...which is always an awesome time for our one on one time.
There are no written "rules" for whom can have a pedi/mani that I know of....nor anything that would dictate that it makes us be anything other than our own selves...
So, hats off to anyone who does this for themselves, gets it done, or has an SO do it for them, and repays in kind!!!
ETA Toughy.....years and years ago my mom would buy Knox Gelatin...an unflavored dry gelatin packet, in a bright orange box..... mix it and drink that..for tougher, stronger nails....
Bag Balm, sold in most pharmacy sections of store, and at any tack and supply places, or such feed n seed stores that sell tack gear...is another incredible product for those tough, dry, cracked feet.
UDDER CREAM for nursing teats of cows.....is a fabulous product.
Go figure....anyway, again, GREAT thread my friend....so come on, let's GET NAILED buddy!!!

[Ginger]

My wife takes care of my hands and feet. We lay
around and groom each other for hours. Big time fun....
She also cuts my hair.
In my world there's nothing she can't do, and nobody does it better.


Happy! Nice.

[Martina]

i am not persnickety at all, but i like a good manicure and pedicure. i hate a bad one. i just had a bad one in Pacifica. They poked me, moved me around like a horse getting shoed, and gossiped and watched TV while they were using sharp implements on my feet. They didn't even out my nails. i guess they assumed i want to grow them (i don't). They didn't ask, and i didn't notice. One place i like is in Half Moon Bay, but they only take cash, which irks me.

i am in the woodsy north right now and am about to go get a mani. No one will notice, and it's kinda crazy when i am going to go kayaking and stuff. But i like to. The toes are in good shape. Alarmingly plum colored. i do put color on the toes. Clear for the hands though because i am hard on the paint and i hate to see chips.

My ex, quite conventionally butch, gets more manis and pedis than i ever did. And she gets color on her toes too. Sometimes more than one color. She loves it.

P.S. I also keep my nails short for obvious reason. i have had long nailed femmes fuck me just fine. But i keep mine short. Makes me nervous otherwise. i don't want to be thinking about that when have my hand inside someone.

Also, while i am no massage therapist, i do give a lot of massages, and i don't need long nails.

you know I get you are trying to be funny, but it's not funny to me......

Guys get crap about being 'butch enough' all the time and personal hygiene stuff is one of those places it happens. Hair products and lotions fit in this category also.

Thanks to the femmes who have offered up tips about nail salons.

Come on guys.....I know I am not the only butch who takes care of my nails.



In my mind nails are tools!!! Tools of the loving touch.

I would be willing to say that part of being old school is taking care of your nails (and skin). What do you think about that?

[chefhmboyrd]

I keep mine short to play guitar........ they stay pretty clean since there is no place left for dirt to hide.

:fastdraq:

[shiagirl]

Mine are in my Members Photo's * wink

[Seeocean2011]

Short nails here.
But Love to get a pedi-cure..
No mani for me..
but love a femme with great nails ..
Just saying...