Nail biting, also known as chronic onychophagia, is a common problem that can have devastating effects on the aesthetics of the fingers. While nail biting may be nothing more than a bad habit for some, for others, the problem can result from anxiety or other emotional and psychological disturbances, according to Boston College. Getting rid of a nail-biting habit is crucial to nail health and can also reduce the chances of acquiring a bacterial infection or virus.
Step 1
Visit your pharmacy and purchase a bottle of no-bite nail polish. Brand names vary, but each product has the same goal: to get you to stop biting your nails. No-bite remedies taste especially awful, which acts as a nail-biting deterrent.
Step 2
Get a weekly manicure. Not only will a manicure help to improve the look of your nails, but the fact that you have to pay to have a manicure performed may be enough to deter your nail-biting habit.
Step 3
Squeeze a stress ball every time you get the urge to bite your nails. Squeezing the stress ball will help relieve anxiety and keep your hands occupied, preventing them from entering your mouth.
Step 4
Temporarily cover your fingernails with transparent tape or adhesive bandages. Covering your nails with the tape or bandages will make it difficult to get to your nails and reduce your urge to chew.
Tips and Warnings
- Artificial nails can be a great help to nail biters who want to kick the habit. The artificial nails cover your natural nails, keeping them out of mouth's reach. Apply a coat of clear nail polish to your nails if you cannot afford a weekly manicure.
- Seek a doctor's advice if your nail biting concerns you. If you have tried to stop biting your nails and feel that it may be part of a bigger problem, such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder, your physician may be able to help.
Things You'll Need
- No-bite nail polish
- Stress ball
- Transparent tape or adhesive bandages
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