Hypnosis, Distractions, and Red Nail Polish: Techniques to Stop Biting Your Nails

Biting our nails is a common habit, and it’s very possible that people do it as a way to manage stress or anxiety.

That’s according to new research by the School of Psychology at the University of Herfordshire, which claims the habit is a response to triggers in the environment, initially as a way of regulating emotions.

Not only does the research look at the causes, but it’s also talking solutions and sharing a couple techniques that can help break the habit.

Remind yourself of the health risks: Nails are full of bacteria from everything you touch throughout the day, including door handles, toilet flushers and money. When you put your fingers in your mouth, you’re taking these germs directly into your body, increasing the risk of an infection.

Paint them red: Experts recommend painting your nails red, as red is associated with stop. That way, when you put your fingers near your face, you’ll make the connection on your mind, reminding you of your goals.

Only bite one hand: The researchers in this study say you could also allow yourself to keep biting, but only one nail on each hand, allowing the other nails to grow. They said once you have nice long nails on most of your fingers it’s only a small way to go to reduce the habit on the two remaining nails.

Create distractions: Create “distractors” that will get your mind off of the habit, or when you feel a craving to bite your nails. Some examples include counting backwards in 3’s from 99, folding a piece of paper six times, or even standing on one leg for one minute.

Hypnosis: Hypnotherapy helps the mind be aware of what you’re doing, so that when people raise their fingers to their mouths, they realize what they’re doing and stop biting.