Many children and adolescents chew or bite on their fingernails, but most grow out of the habit eventually. Some people, however, continue to bite their nails in adult life, and the habit can be hard to break. You may find you bite your nails inadvertently when you are bored, or as a coping mechanism during times of stress or anxiety. In addition to being socially unappealing, nail biting transfers germs between your hands and your mouth and, if you chew the skin around your nails as well, it becomes susceptible to infections. You may also be ashamed of the appearance of your nails, particularly if biting makes them rough, torn, or split.
See your doctor first
Make an appointment to see your doctor if:
● You or your child show other signs of anxiety such as hair pulling, or difficulty sleeping
What you can do yourself
Once you or your child have decided to stop nail biting, take these steps to help break the habit.
● Sit in front of a mirror and watch yourself biting your nails to see how unappealing it looks.
● Cut your nails short, and smooth them with a fine emery board so there are no ragged edges to chew.
Put adhesive bandages around the tops of your fingers to keep from chewing loose bits of skin.
● Be aware of the times when you bite your nails and try to occupy your hands by fiddling with a pen, worry beads, or a piece of modeling clay.
● Chew sugar-free gum instead of your nails.
● Paint an anti-nail-biting lotion on your nails (see DRUG REMEDIES, below).
● Reward yourself when your nails begin to look better. For example, have a professional manicure.
● Try having artificial nails fitted. They last for about 2 weeks, which may be long enough for you to break your nail-biting habit.
● Don’t make your child feel guilty about nail biting. Try to find out if anything is causing anxiety and if there is something you can do to help.
● Use a star chart with your child. Reward each nail-biting-free day with a stick-on star and buy a small gift when the chart is complete.
DRUG REMEDIES
Anti-nail-biting lotions have an extremely bitter taste that deters nibbling and acts as a reminder every time you start to bite. They can be used for children over 5, but work with your child, rather than forcing him or her to try one.
Using the lotion: Paint the lotion on like a nail polish once a day, paying particular attention to the top edge of the nails.
Seek further medical advice
Arrange to see your doctor if:
● The skin around the nails becomes red and weepy or bleeds
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