I’m a nail biter. I have been a nail biter since as long as I can remember. People generally bite their nails when they are bored, anxious, and nervous and lastly; stressed out. I used to bite my nails for all the above listed reasons until one day, I decided enough was enough. I work in the dental field and you just cannot have chewed on looking finger nails in any sort of health care position. It’s a health risk not only to you but to your patients because bacteria can easily get into your system from “breaks in the skin” that occur when biting your finger nails.
But how can you stop biting your nails for good? When I was younger I remember my mother soaking my finger tips in really hot salsa or chili, hoping this would deter me. I would just wash my hands a million times and all the salsa would come off and the next thing you know; I was chewing on my finger nails again.
As an adult I have discovered the one thing that totally works. Without a shadow of doubt, I believe this will work for you too. Head to your local beauty store or your favorite online retailer and purchase a product made by ORLY (a very popular salon nail polish brand) called No Bite. This product is a product you apply to your finger nails once a day. I usually start off my morning routine of applying it after my shower and it dries instantly.
What it is, is a coating that has a very bitter taste that not only tastes horrible the minute it comes in contact with your mouth but it will leave a very noticeable aftertaste in your mouth and around your lips. This awful taste will quickly deter you from trying to gnaw on your nails and it is a strong reminder for the next time you even think about putting your finger tips near your mouth. It is very effective and within one week of using the product you will have significant nail growth.
I would recommend that you continue to use the product each day over the course of a few weeks to make sure you break the habit for good, then you can stop using it. Should you find yourself nibbling on your nails, go back to putting it on every day again for reaffirming the breaking of this habit.