Nail Biting Online Support Group

Hey, I've been biting my nails for as long as i can remember. I'm 17 now and it's embarrassing how my fingers look. It's gone from just biting the nails to actually biting the skin around my nails as well. I've bitten my nails down to the point where the bleed, and then bitten the skin off my fingers to the point where the skin is red and irritated and bleeds. I've tried the nasty tasting nailpolish and when I tried the hotsauce i had to wash it off immediately because it stung way too much. Has anyone been successful in stopping? The longest I've been able to stop is 1-2 months, and then I go right back to biting them. Hope you guys can help me out a bit.

I have only for a short time also. I get nervous and start biting again.

s2e

Post edited by: stand2endure, at: 09/30/2011 06:36 AM

Hello, I have the same problem.... Its gotten to the point where my thumbs dont even heal on their own anymore... I try to remind myself not to bite but i find myself doing it all the time... I started using band aids, since i only chew on my thumbs. It covers them up so I cant chew but as soon as they are off, I start again. I wish I had better advice for you, I am still searching for a way to stop!

my nails are hideous and hurt most of the time. i bite my nails, cuticles, and the surrounding skin. i'll start because there's a rough spot or a hang-nail, and just keep going. sometimes i'm biting or picking at them and don't even realize it. plus, i can't seem to stop even when i'm in public or a meeting, its so embarrassing. the only time i've stopped is when i have acrylic nails on, and they don't last long, plus, they add to the nail damage. there has to be a way to stop, without using fake nails or nasty tasting topical aids, but i'm at a loss for what it is. the other day, my daughter asked if i was ok, or if i was biting/picking at my nails/skin as a way of self-abuse, like cutting. i didn't even know these were in the same category, but apparently they are... ~willo

Hi Dancergirl. Welcome to the group! I hear what you are saying....I am the same and always have been. Biting has always been a problem. I am not sure what the remedy is yet but I do know that in this group, we are all in the same boat so to speak, and I think having soe support and knowing that we all have the same issue helps a lot! I am sure the more we all get to know each other we can give each other some tips. What might not work for me could well work for you!! So keep posting and I am sure that we can all overcome this irritating problem! Lol