We wave them in greetings, we raise them in class. We fling them all around while we're talking to each other. With all this attention called to them, we should keep our hands looking nice and neat! Some people think keeping their hands smooth and nails trimmed is a lot of work, when in fact, it's not. A simple lotion applied daily or trimming nails back once a week doesn't take much time or effort. But sometimes, that isn't quite enough. Sometimes we run into problem areas. Here are some common manicure problems, and their solutions.

If your nails keep splitting, it could be because you're lacking protein. Try adding foods like cucumbers or nuts to your diet. Vitamin A and gelatin are essential for nail strength. Vitamin A is found in carrots, liver and peas. Gelatin can be found in Jell-o.

Sometimes we notice a strange yellow tinge to our nails. Don't panic! It can be something as simple as staining from nail polish. If that's the case, you can use a polish remover with lemon juice. It bleaches the color out. If that doesn't work, it may be a fungus. This can be cured by using an over the counter cream, or even asking your doctor what he or she recommends.

If you notice frequent hang nails, try using a good moisturizing hand lotion. Hang nails often stem from dry nails, but can also result from chewing, or biting your nails. If you're a biter, you may want to consider trying some of the nail polish that has an ingredient that makes your nails taste bitter. It will definitely deter you from putting your nails in your mouth. Yuck!

When you are removing several layers of polish, use a cotton ball that has been moistened with nail polish remover. They work better than tissues, as they hold a lot of remover, and are small and easy to maneuver.
Place the cotton on your nail, and hold it there for a few seconds. It will soften the layers of old polish, so it won't take much effort swiping it off.

When you polish your nails, you want to steer clear of chipping for as long as you can. I know it is next to impossible to avoid. But if you apply your topcoat under the free edge, and across the tip as well, your polish will be extra protected.

Set up a soak for your hands. Use your favorite bath moisturizer in a small bowl filled with warm water. Don't get it too hot, though. It will dry your hands and nails, and that defeats the purpose! Soak each hand for a few minutes, massaging your nails and cuticles, then gently dry with a soft towel. Now would be a good time for some wonderful lotion.

Oh no! You snagged your nail, and guess who doesn't have a nail file? Don't sweat it! Use the striker from any matchbook for a quick fix! And keeping a file in your car isn't a bad idea, either.

If you accidentally get polish on your cuticle, or anywhere else for that matter, it's OK. If you are pressed for time, dipping a cotton swab in polish remover, and swiping it away will work. But if you are just lounging at home, chill out! Polish will wash off the next time you wash your hands, or do a sink load of dishes.

Don't have any of those fancy tip guides for a French manicure? Use transparent tape. It works just as well, and since most of us have some anyway, it will save some money. And who doesn't want to do that, right?