Nail biting may cause illness because it spreads germs from underneath the nails to the mouth, says dermatologist Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. in the article "Nail Biting: Does it Cause Long-Term Damage?" on MayoClinic.com. Nail biting may also cause nail bed infections that may require the care of a doctor. If you respond to anxiety or nervousness by biting your nails to the quick, don't lose hope. To reduce the risk of infection or illness, break your nail-biting habit.
Step 1
Look at your nail-biting routine in the mirror to see the motions it involves, says Nathan H. Azrin, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Psychology at Nova University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. You may run your finger along your lips before placing it in your mouth to bite. Once you determine how you bite your fingernails, stop yourself at the first sign, before your finger enters your mouth, says Dr. Azrin.
Step 2
Coat your nails in lemon juice as a reminder to stop biting. When you put your finger in your mouth and taste the lemon juice, immediately remove your finger from your mouth.
Step 3
Paint your nails with over-the-counter nail polish designed to stop nail biting, suggests the article "What's Wrong With Biting My Nails?" on the medical website KidsHealth. The nail polish is nontoxic, but has a bitter taste that will discourage biting.
Step 4
Wear cotton gloves around the house to eliminate the urge to bite. Keeping your nails out of sight may help you forget about your desire to bite your nails.
Step 5
Keep your hands busy. If your hands have nothing to do, you may be more likely to bite your nails. Instead, keep your hands occupied by grabbing your knee or the arm of the chair you're sitting in.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your nails filed and short so you won't feel the need to even out your nails with your teeth.
- Consult a doctor if your nail biting is accompanied by any other anxiety symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Mirror
- Lemon juice
- Anti-biting nail polish
- Cotton gloves
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