What Causes Nail Biting?

Because let’s be real: having the occasional nail bite isn’t a big deal, unless it’s from a tiny, terrifying nail that just refuses to stop. That, ladies, is a big deal. So to stop biting nails, it’s a good idea to get the big picture of where it’s coming from, why it’s so problematic, and what you can do to stop it.

Here are seven mistakes you’re making that cause nail biting to occur.

1. Your hands are too warm.

Kitschy science explains nail biting is often the result of people keeping their hands warm because they don’t want their fingers to shrivel up and freeze.

2. But you kept your hands warmer than the tips of the fingers.

A statement saying “I keep my hands warm because it doesn’t hurt” does not make these statements true. Nails are cold, so if you tend to bite those tips more than others, your hands are in for a rough trip through a hibernation session.

3. But you were sleeping and your hands were cold.

No one knows how to keep the fingers warm on the inside so your manicure gets all that soothing moisture and keeps you cozy and protected during your naps.

4. But you didn’t get rid of a problem part.

You woke up this morning with a cold that seems to be spreading throughout your body, and the toes seem to be getting worse. It’s time to get them into the ER because you’ve developed bed-jealousy over your name on the pillows. Oh, and don’t forget your hands, which may be holding or distributing the bugs.

5. But your feet are dripping with sweat.

The only part of your body that needs to sweat is the lips. Even if your tongues are leaking, your frostbitten hands are the real problem.

6. But your feet are safe, because you don’t want germs!

Even though your hands are cold, bugs aren’t going to live on them while in bed. The cold is what gives the bug housemates a place to live.

7. But if you stop biting your nails, you’ll fall asleep.

This isn’t the case. Biting is the most destructive thing you can do to your nails (other than be allergic to them).

That’s it, ladies. Once you get the picture, it’s no problem. Remember that bite you get on your fingernails almost every week? Don’t try to stick with your finger-biting: it’s a bad idea. Same with nails and any other problems that occur when you bite.

Before you start biting again, check out these 10 tips to stop biting nail biters.