We all have heard this phrase “That was a real nail-biter!” while watching a movie or any other thing which is adventurous and exciting. But, some people take this phrase very seriously and nail-biting becomes their regular activity. This habit of nail-biting develops usually in childhood and can continue for a longer time all through adulthood. Nail-biting have quite adverse effects on our health and also, our skin as well. If you have a habit of biting your nails very frequently, it can make the skin around your nails very sore and can also damage the tissue that makes nails grow. Consequently, your nails start looking abnormal.
If you are tired of this nail-biting and trying to change this habit, some of our top-rated dermatologists recommend trying these tips.
To Keep Yourself Away From Nail Biting, Here Is What The Dermatologists Recommend
You can stop nail biting with your own efforts and with the help of professionals but you need to identify when your habit is getting worse and out of control.
1. You Need To Keep Your Nails Short:
If you have longer nails, it means you constantly have something to provoke you to start biting nails. Keeping short nails provides less time to bite and are also less tempting.
2. Try To Find Bitter Tasting Nail Polish
These types of nail polishes are easily available in markets and are also safe. The bad-tasting formula discourages many people from nail-biting.
3. Get Yourself Regular Manicures.
Spending money on your nails means you will be careful before chipping it off. Keep your nails looking fresh and attractive so you are careful before biting them.
4. Replace Your Nail Biting Habit With Something Good
Whenever you feel that you are about to bite your nails, try diverting your attention towards something immediately. This will help keep your hands busy and you will forget to bite your nails.
5. Identify What Triggers You
Biting nails can indicate various conditions. This activity could be some kind of physical triggers, which includes boredom, stress, or anxiety. If you are able to easily identify what triggers you, it’ll become easier for you to think of ways to avoid these situations and get a plan to stop.
6. Try To Gradually Divert Your Attention To Something Else
According to some health care experts, you can take a gradual approach to break this habit of nail-biting. Gradually drift yourself away from biting your nails. Try starting it from one finger and if you are successful, start eliminating other nails too. By doing this, you’ll get to the point where you will no longer be interested in biting any of your nails.
What Causes Us To Bite Our Nails?
Some people find biting their nails really normal and it is a regular activity for them. It becomes harder for them to pinpoint this habit and find out why the habit began. Sometimes, nail-biting for some people is like a relief or a signal of accomplishment.
For them, it relieves stress and nervousness. It happens because our fingers are easily accessible, they can become a go-to means for stress reduction.
Whereas, some people bite their nails when they feel tired, hungry, or insecure.
The Reasons Why One Should Stop Biting Nails
Nail-biting is not something which will cause permanent damage. But it definitely has its downsides:
1. Nail Biting Can Make Your Nails Grow Weirdly
If you damage the tissue around your nails, they may stop growing the way they should. This gives you abnormal-looking nails.
2. It Can Spoil Your Teeth
You can chip, crack, or break your teeth when you bite your nails. Over time, nail biting can even cause jaw problems.
3. Nail Biting Can Actually Make You Sick
Hands are a hotbed for germs, and nails are their perfect hideout. When you’re putting your fingers in your mouth multiple times a day, it increases your chances of getting sick. Plus, the skin damage you can cause when you bite your nails creates an easy way for germs to get in.
Do I Need To See A Doctor For This Issue?
Nail-biting can be a serious issue as it is an indication of many behavioural issues. To deal with it or to eliminate it, consult a psychologist or a dermatologist as soon as you can.
To talk to a doctor through an audio/video call or to book yourself an in-clinic consultation, contact us through our helpline 03111222398 or install our mobile app now!
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