This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
Five reasons why you shouldn’t bite your nails and how to stop ¶
Published on May 14, 2020
Most people bite their nails when they’re nervous or bored. However, this habit can lead to several health issues, including bacterial infections, dental problems, and skin infections. It can also damage your nails and make them grow irregularly.
One of the main reasons why nail biting is a bad habit is that it’s not hygienic. Nails are filled with bacteria, which can easily transfer to your mouth and cause infections. In fact, accidentally putting your finger in your mouth without washing your hands properly can lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
Another reason why nail biting is a bad habit is that it can cause dental problems. The bacteria buildup in your nails can cause bad breath, gum disease, and corroded teeth. In the long run, this can lead to serious dental issues.
Additionally, nail biting can cause skin infections. If you chew your nails too hard, you might end up leaving open sores on your fingertips. Since we use our hands for everything, germs can easily get into these sores and cause infections.
Lastly, nail biting can damage your nails. Biting your nails stunts their growth to a large extent, and the chomps can cause them to grow irregularly. This damage might be irreversible, and you might have to kiss your chance of growing healthy nails goodbye.
So, how can you stop this habit? Here are four things you can do:
- Find out what triggers the habit. Doing a self-assessment might help you realize why you’re constantly biting your nails. It’s often a sign of anxiety and other disorders, which mean you need to deal with the underlying issues as a step towards quitting.
- Use anti-biting polish. This has a nasty taste that will immediately remind you to avoid chewing on your nails. The polish is clear, and people won’t notice that you’ve applied anything.
- Apply chilli powder. If you’re not comfortable with polish, chilli is another alternative to quitting. Just don’t rub your eyes when you’ve applied the powder. Or better still, maybe that’s the painful reminder you need to help you stop.
- Carry a nail or cuticle cutter in your bag. This will help you resist the urge to bite off the hanging cuticles and the chipped parts of your nails that might irritate you. This will make it easier for you to nurse your nails back to health.
