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Nail biting is a common habit that can seem like little more than a nervous impulse, but that can have more disastrous consequences than you might think. Some little-known dangers associated with nail biting include nail infections, the transfer of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella from your fingers to your mouth, dental issues, and even the spreading of warts caused by the HPV virus. If you need another reason, albeit a less dangerous one, to stop biting your nails asap: it's disastrous to your manicure.
With that out of the way, there is hope — you can totally put an end to your nail biting habit — and these six products will help.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
Hoof Hands Kick the Habit Nail-Biting Deterrent ($2.97)
Apply two coats of this clear nail treatment as you would a nail polish and your hands and health will benefit in two ways. The nail biting deterrent tastes nasty enough to keep you from biting your nails and the formula will actually help your nail grow stronger and longer. It can be worn over your nail polish and removed with acetone nail polish remover. For best results, apply it every day and repeat for at least three months after you've kicked your habit.
Mavala Stop ($14.50)
A product recommended by dentists, orthodontists, and even pediatricians, Mavala Stop is a bitter-tasting polish that goes on like a clear enamel, can be used alone or over colored polish, and can even be used on children ages three and older. This Swiss formula should be applied every two days until you've overcome your habit.
Orly No Bite ($8.82)
This clear, bitter-tasting polish can be used alone or over nail polish and dries to a matte finish — so no one will even know you're wearing anything on your nails. In addition to discouraging nail biting, it also promotes new and healthy nail growth.
Control-It Helps Stop Nail Biting and Thumb Sucking 3 Pack ($34.95)
This all-natural and alcohol-free cream is an alternative to other polish treatments that contains ingredients like aloe vera leaf juice, vitamin E, and sunflower seed oil. Apply the cream to cuticles and nails three times a day (after meals) and it leaves behind a bitter aftertaste that will keep you from biting your nails.
Stop Nail-Biting, Heal and Regrow your Nails with all Natural Ingredients ($14.99)
This product contains a built-in applicator that makes it a cinch to apply to nails — no messy dripping as you transfer your brush from the product to your nails. It contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and chondroitin that help strengthen nails while delivering a bitter taste that will keep you from biting them. Apply it just once a day and be on your way.
Helps Cure Nail Biting & Thumb Sucking-Magique No Bite ($13.92)
This clear, odorless polish has a bad taste that won't wash off until you remove it with polish. It's toxic free and contains zero carcinogens so you can feel better about applying it — even to the hands of young children.
