If you think that the habit of biting your nails is harmless and you don’t need to make any effort to get rid of it, then this is not true.
At the very least, the appearance of your hands will deteriorate as a result, and sometimes this can lead to serious medical consequences.
For example, teeth can damage the tissue near the nail bed or introduce an infection.
Fortunately, there are several effective methods for combating this habit.
1. Start by recognizing triggers and developing alternative behavior.
Every time your hands reach for your mouth, record the situation or state in which this happens – stress, boredom, etc.
Instead of biting your nails, try squeezing a stress ball in your hands, or if you don't have one nearby, just clasp your hands together.
2. A bracelet or other accessory that is easy to notice will help you recognize the moment when you are overcome by the desire to bite your nails.
3. It will be easier for the fair sex to cope with onychophagia, since they have access to such a procedure as nail extensions or strengthening the nail plate with gel.
Not only is it, frankly speaking, problematic to bite artificial nails, but you’re also unlikely to want to ruin your beautiful manicure.
4. To distract yourself from nail biting, try this method called object manipulation. Despite the complicated name, it’s simple: many people enjoy rolling small objects in their hands.
5. Finally, in particularly difficult cases, when nothing helps to cope with the bad habit and this affects the quality of life, it is worth contacting a doctor who will select medication treatment.
