Consider this page a tool to gain knowlege from.  I am not, and in no way pretend to be a doctor. Most of this information was researched on www.WebMD.com, and www.FootPhysicians.com and some is my own knowledge from my education and experience.  As always, if you have any questions or concerns, let me know!

FINGERS:

Bitten Nails: An unconscious activity that usually has to be addressed with the conscious decision to quit; like dieting or smoking. I could go into the whole “Eww” factor of nail biting…how chewing on the skin of your fingers (who knows where they’ve been?) is totally gross and can lead to bleeding sores and infections…but I’m sure if you have this affliction you’ve heard it all! 

Some ways (besides hypnosis) that this bad habit can be brought to the conscious thought:

1. Making time every week for a manicure, where your nails are spotlighted! 
2. Even having a polish on your nails can deter you from “ruining” them by biting. You don’t have to go wild; just a subtle, natural pink is fine!
3. Doing your part of Nail Maintenance extends to the homefront. I usually recommend that Solar Oil be rubbed into your cuticles and nails everyday.  You don’t have to necessarily drown them in oil, but I’ve suggested to some that they keep a tiny bottle available nearby (ie desk or end table) where your attention can be consciously focused on your nails again.  Since Solar Oil doesn’t taste all that great that may be another deterrent if you slip up and start biting!

Gel Nails: Seriously, after you leave our Manicure Table, IT’S ALL UP TO YOU!  Please, do not go home from your appointment and do the following separately or even worse all at the same time!  P.s. these are actual real-life examples:

1. Start your Spring Cleaning; 
2. Wearing no Gloves;
3. Cleaning your oven draws with Clorox;
4. Using your nails as Screwdrivers to open your Winter-weary Windows;
5. Then using them again to pry off a paint can cover;
6. or scraping off the excess paint on the can.  (Don’t want it to look messy, right?)

I guess my point is that although your nails may seem tough, doing anything similar to the above listed scenarios will undoubtedly cause a weakening or cracking of the Gel. 

Systemic or Seasonal Issues: These are common conditions that occur due to medications, weather etc.

Soft, Peeling Nails-Can be caused by over-hydration.  I use Nail Tek for Soft Peeling Nails on anyone with this issue.

Dry, Brittle Nails-Usually a Winter condition. The cold air sucks any moisture from your nails and your skin.  If you are soaking your Gelpolish off in Acetone, it may make this condion worse.  Also, brittle nails can be a medication issue.  Cuticle Oil applied (or soaked in) a few times a week can help tremendously.  Also, once again, I use Nail Tek, this time the specialized formula for Dry, Brittle Nails.

Hereditary Conditions:

Along with color of your hair & eyes, your parents & grandparents have passed down traits that show up in your nails such as rock hard nails or the shape of your nailbeds.  Some people have barely any baby toe nails, while others need professional help to trim theirs because they are so thick! A professional Manicure/Pedicurist is trained to know the difference between these hereditary conditions and a bacterial or fungal infection.  Most hereditary conditions can be filed and/or buffed to look fabulous!

The best way to take care of your nails is to treat them to a manicure or pedicure!  Think of how many things you do daily; how many times you plunge your hands into hot water or how your feet take you where you want to go, even in those high heels!  Take care of them and they will take care of you! 

TOES/FEET:

Beach Toes!! Just a reminder that when you're heading off to somewhere warm where you'll be taking long, romantic walks on the beach......don't forget to pack your Top Coat!  Beach sand, although a good exfoliant for the bottoms of your feet; also works away at your top coat and/or any Nail Art you may be sporting.  After your shower when your tootsies are dry give 'em a swipe of Glossy Top Coat to keep them looking fabulous. 

  Calluses/Corns

Calluses & corns are a body's protection against the constant wear and tear we put our feet through.  Corns are the thickening of the thinner skin on the tops of your feet, while calluses develop in the thicker skin on the bottoms of your feet.  YOU SHOULD NOT GET EITHER SHAVED OFF YOUR FEET!! Smoothing out this dead skin is acceptable, and enjoyable, by getting a lovely pedicure once a month. Between pedicures, a pumice stone and salt/sugar scrubs once a week do the trick.  PLEASE, IF SOMEONE TRIES TO SHAVE OFF YOUR CALLUSES WITH A ROUND METAL TOOL WITH A LONG HANDLE-STOP THEM!  IT IS ILLEGAL TO USE THIS TOOL! The tool, called a Credo Blade, is an unguarded razor that slices into your skin.  If used improperly, serious injury and other complications will arise.

Bunions

Usually hereditary, but can be caused by consistantly wearing bad shoes. It is classified as a a bony bump on the joint at the base of the big toe.  Truthfully, the only comfort for a bunion is comfortable shoes and/or bunion pads.  As the bump gets bigger, it causes the big toe to turn into the second toe.  It can be painful and lead to surgery.

Warts

Warts that develop on the soles of the feet are called Plantar warts. They feel like round bubbles and tend to have a tiny, dark dot in the middle of them.  They are usually caused by a virus that invades your skin through a small cut or opening.  They are very common with kids and are very contagious.  Mostly, they are harmless and may go away without treatment, but sometimes are located in spots where they can cause lots of pain. In extreme cases, your doctor can remove them in-office. 

Ingrown Nails

Can be an inherited condition, or can be caused by trauma to the nail. Basically, the nail is growing into the surrounding skin, sometimes puncturing the skin and allowing bacteria to run amok and cause infection.  If you must, cut nails straight across and flush with the flesh of your toe.  Do not cut your nails too frequently or too short as this may cause this problem. Extreme, continual problems can be solved with surgery.

Hammertoes

Another condition that can be inherited from your parents/grandparents!  This condition is distinguished by the bending of the smaller toes from issues with the muscles in them.  Wearing shoes that are too small exacerbates this condition.  Calluses and corns usually form on the affected toe(s) to protect the skin, but in extreme cases surgery may be needed to lessen any pain.

Fungal & Bacterial Issues

Bacterial Infections show up as dark spots ON TOP OF THE NAIL. The spots can be green and lead all the way up to black.  Basically, moisture has been allowed to pool, allowing bacteria to go nuts.  The dark spots are actually the bacteria's waste..ewww.  These "greenies" can be killed easily but the stains on your nails may stay around for awhile until they grow out. 

Fungal Infections are infections THAT ATTACK THE NAIL BED and are characterized by white or yellowish color, thickening of the nail or even nail loss. These infections are hard to get rid of and usually require medications to completely remove.  You can catch infections like these easily if you have diabetes or a weak immune system. Avoid walking barefoot in public showers or pools or sharing personal items, such as towels and nail clippers. If you have athlete's foot, the fungus can spread from your skin to your nails. UNDERSTANDABLY, YOU SHOULD NOT RECEIVE  A PEDICURE WHILE YOU HAVE FUNGAL ISSUES! The risk of contagion is too much.

 Helpful Slideshow from WebMd: Warning! People with Sensitive Stomachs (or are eating lunch) should probably skip this! 

http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/slideshow-common-foot-problems