Introduction
Nail biting is a bad habit that mostly starts in early childhood and can last until adulthood. Nail biting may occasionally be an indicator of psychological or emotional strain. It frequently manifests in those who are tense, apprehensive, or depressed. The behavior is unconscious and instinctive, and the majority of individuals find themselves engaging in it when they are bored, hungry, or insecure as a coping mechanism for these emotions. Nail biting gives the nails a strange growth and can bring infections, but searching for the triggers, maintaining short nails, using a non-pleasant polish, and distraction are some ways to help quit the behavior.
Reasons to Stop Nail Biting
Nail biting does not usually result in long-term harm, but there are certain drawbacks. First, it may cause strange nail growth. Your nails may stop growing normally if you hurt the tissue surrounding them, and your nails will appear odd as a result. Secondly, it may make you feel ill as germs thrive on your hands, and their ideal hiding place is under the nails. When you repeatedly put your fingers in your mouth throughout the day, your risk of getting sick rises. Additionally, biting your nails can harm your skin, which makes it easier for pathogens to enter your body.
Ways to Stop Nail Biting
Searching for the Triggers
It might be helpful to start by considering the reason you bite your nails. To find trends, try keeping a written record of the moments you get the urge to bite. It is vital to recognize what compels you to bite your nails to prevent yourself earlier when dealing with that trigger. It is simpler to change a habit if you have identified the causes, feelings, and tendencies that are connected to it.
Maintaining Short Nails
Whenever your nails are long, you tend to bite them more. Therefore, it is an excellent move to cut them short to assist yourself in breaking the habit. It is not as enjoyable to bite them if there are not enough nails for you to hold onto with your teeth. Long nails are more difficult to maintain and less hygienic overall than short nails. Moreover, the nearer the nail is to the fingertip, the more challenging and less alluring it is to nibble.
Using a Non-Pleasant Polish
The usual nail polish does not taste good. However, there are several nail paints available that are designed expressly to stop you from biting your nails. According to Nanda and Bansal (2019), some of the best and most harmless nail polish to use is ‘Mavala’ and ‘Orly’. Experts have discovered that using this polish, which intentionally tastes very bitter or unpleasant, is an excellent way to quit biting. These products can teach you to stop chewing your nails because it makes you uncomfortable whenever you place your fingers in your mouth.
Distracting Hands and Mouth
You can use your hands or mouth to get involved in another activity to divert your attention from biting your nails. For example, you may consider having your hands occupied by playing with an object that can give you the desired sensory stimulation. You can also attempt chewing gum or get something to entertain yourself with. It is beneficial as long as it serves as a constructive diversion.
Conclusion
Nail biting is a typical habit that is frequently brought on by anxiety. If you do it only sometimes, it is usually thought to be normal, however, persistent nail biting can result in signs including health infection and damaged nails. It is important to note that habits take time to develop hence finding the ideal approach for your particular situation may take some time. You might not notice an improvement right away, but you can break your nail-biting behavior with some patience and effort.
Reference
Nanda, S., & Bansal, S. (2019). Nail care and nail cosmetics. Nail Disorders, 487–496. Web.