NAIL BITING

 

As nail professionals, one of the most common issues encountered is bitten nails.

Nail biting and skin biting usually start in childhood and become more frequent during adolescence. It can then become a difficult habit to manage.

 

Why do people develop this habit? How harmful is it? How can we help?

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Nail biting can start as a nervous habit, seeking temporary relief from stress. It can become a go-to habit when feeling nervous, frustrated, or bored and can also be a mindless activity while concentrating on something else.

Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, can lead to skin picking and biting (perionychophagia), changing the appearance of nails and fingers, which can lead to viral infections like paronychia due to broken skin.

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Nail and skin biting can lead to severe deformities in nails and fingers. It can also progress to dermatophagia, a compulsive disorder involving gnawing or biting skin, especially if there is an underlying mental health condition.

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Side effects of nail and skin biting may include soreness, fungal infections, swelling or pain in the nails, onycholysis, oral disease, illness due to pathogens transferred from fingers to mouth, and harm to teeth such as chipping.

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It can also have a social impact, as many nail-biters feel ashamed of the look of their fingers, leading to keeping their hands in their pockets, avoiding handshakes, and social withdrawal.

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To break the nail-biting habit, avoid triggers such as stress, keep your hands busy, manage stress, try behaviour therapy, or visit the nail salon regularly.

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At Nail’d.it! we can help by transforming the appearance of a nail-biter's nails and fingers through manicures and nail enhancements.

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Treat yourself to a manicure to say goodbye to hangnails and rough skin. Smooth out those ragged edges and resist the temptation to bite your nails.

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Now, go, enjoy a manicure and pedicure!

It is safe and self-care!​​

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IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that the use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.