How to: Cures for Obsessive Nail Biting

Nail biting is a common reaction to stress, excitement or boredom. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, 28 to 33 percent of children age 7 to 10 and 45 percent of adolescents engage in the habit. You may find yourself biting your nails without thinking about it, which can make it hard to break the habit. However, frequent nail biting can result in red and sore fingers as well as bleeding cuticles and increased risk of infection in nails and mouth. It can also interfere with nail growth and result in nail deformities.

Instructions

• 1

  Take care of your nails in order to discourage you from biting them. Keep your nails trimmed and have them manicured regularly.

• 2

  Keep regular nail polish or a bitter-tasting polish on your nails. Choose a clear polish if you want nail biting prevention without the added color.

• 3

  Wear gloves to prevent nail biting until you are able to control the behavior. Alternatively, place bandage strips on the fingers to deter biting.

• 4

  Use techniques to make you aware of when you are chewing your nails. Wear a bracelet around your wrist with charms that make noise when moved. Place rubber band around your wrist and snap it when you feel the urge to chew your nails or find yourself chewing.

• 5

  Think about the cause of the behavior each time you find yourself biting your nails. Identify the trigger and think of other ways to deal with the emotion or situation.

• 6

  Use stress management techniques, if you find that you bite your nails when stressed. Take deep breaths or walk to calm your nerves. Incorporate relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga or listening to soothing music into your day. Find ways to occupy your mind if you chew your nails because of boredom. Stand up, take a walk or call a friend or loved one on the phone.

• 7

  Keep your hands busy during periods when you are most likely to chew your nails. Hold a small ball and toss it back and forth, or buy a stress ball to squeeze when your hands are idle.