If you're reading this blog post, chances are you're either a nail-biter or know someone who is. Nail biting, also known as onychophagy or onychophagia, is an oral compulsive habit. We can all agree, without judgment, that nail biting is a bad habit. Unfortunately, like all habits, nail biting is hard to break. There are many reasons why you might be biting your nails - stress, anxiety, boredom, etc. Whatever the case is, the fact remains that nail biting is not good for your nails or the surrounding skin. The self-inflicting wounds that result tend to be painful and unsightly. That's why we're sharing five helpful tips to help stop yourself or the nail-biting culprit in your life from nail-biting.
1. Exercise
Often nail-biting results from stress. Whether it sources from work or family matters, we all need an outlet through which we can de-stress. Exercise a great way to get yourself up and active while destressing. Join a group fitness class or studio, stretch in the morning before work, or go for a job outside for some fresh air. Whatever gets your mind off your source of stress is best. If you're not into working out, try bringing a friend with you.
2. Cover Your Nails
It sounds funny, but it makes sense. If you can't access your nails then you won't be able to chew on them. You can use gloves in the winter without any issue of them looking strange. What if it's not winter time or you live somewhere where it doesn't get cold enough for gloves thought? Well, there are nail stickers now that you can put over your nails. This will have the same impact.
3. Use Anti-Bite Nail Polish
We know that sometimes you can't control yourself. Extreme measures may need to considered to protect one's nails and the surrounding skin. That's why Probelle's founder launched one of its best selling product, Anti-Bite. From thumb-suckers to nervous nail-biters, this still works to keep you disgusting my the sheer taste of it. Made with marine algae and horse chestnut, it leaves a sheer matte finish so no one will know you're wearing it.
4. Clear Your Mind
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Sometimes nail biting can be a sign of emotional stress. If you're feeling down, meditation is a great way to clear your mind. If a group class is too much to manage, there are alternatives. You can try a one on one session. There are also apps, like headspace, that can guide you through a meditation session at home.
5. Get Manicures
It's a splurge, but it helps! When you know you've spent a lot of money on a beautiful manicure, you're not going to want to chew it off. Gel manicures are more expensive than regular polish, but they last longer and they're harder to chew off than regular polish. This can help you forget or not want to chew your nails, at least for the duration of the manicure. Once you start to see it chipping, get a new one. The trick is always to have them done so you don't want to mess them up (or waste your money).
That's five ways to help prevent nail biting! We hope these are helpful in deterring yourself or someone else from this bad habit. It's tough to break, but it's doable. You can do it!