The Verdict: The taste was gross, but milder than the rest of the formulas, so Londontown’s nail-biting polish earns the title of “Least Disgusting Taste.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is nail biting bad for my nails and skin?
Biting your nails and cuticles can wreak havoc on your nail beds and skin on your fingers, according to multiple board-certified dermatologists I talked to. “Biting your nails and skin causes physical trauma and can introduce bacteria into the skin from your mouth or the surrounding environment,” says Donna Hart, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas. “A swollen, painful finger infection called a paronychia can happen from tears in the skin.”
She adds that biting your nails can also lead to trauma along the area under your cuticle, called the nail matrix, which produces your nail plate. “This can cause permanent nail damage, grooving, pitting, or breakage,” she says.
What can I do to stop my nail-biting habit?
You can subject yourself to horrible-tasting nail-biting polishes like I did, but if you’d prefer not to do that, 1) I don’t blame you, and 2) you certainly have other options. For those who’d like to take matters into their own nibbled hands at home, Sonya Belakhlef, a New York City-based nail artist (and former nail biter) says to rehaul your nighttime nail care routine by incorporating strengthening treatments.
How to Stop Nail-Biting at Home
“Depending on the state of my natural nails, I will paint them with either Dermelect’s Transfix Restore & Repair Base Coat or Launchpad Nail Strengthener,” she says. Once the treatment is fully dry, she’ll whip out the Dr. Dana Nail Repair Kit, which includes a glycolic acid-powered cuticle and nail exfoliator along with the Priming Wand nail buff and moisture-replenishing Hydrating Nail Treatment. “After I apply my nail treatments, I slather my hands with CeraVe Healing Ointment, cover my hands with cotton gloves, and go to sleep,” she says.
Professional Help
If you’d like to take your nail care routine to a professional level, New York City-based nail artist Julie Kandalec recommends trying gel nail extensions, which she actually used on one Allure tester to stop their chronic nail-biting habit. “I truly believe that having an enhancement on helps keep the natural nail from peeling and keeps you from picking at them better than with no nail coating,” she says. “I recommend a coat of Acrygel [a hybrid between acrylic and builder gel] with little to no free edge to start, or builder gel like CND Plexigel, like I used on [the tester].” Also, make sure you keep up with your appointments and don’t go more than two weeks between them. If you can find a professional nail artist who is skilled with waterless manicures, an e-file, and diamond bit attachments to exfoliate the nailbed “so there’s nothing left to chew on—that’s the magic ticket for most,” she says.
Meet the Experts
How We Test and Review Products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re a nail biter, it’s time to reevaluate your habits and consider making a change. Whether you choose to try a new nail polish or seek professional help, there are many options available to you. Remember to take care of your nails and skin, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is nail biting bad for my nails and skin?
A: Biting your nails and cuticles can cause physical trauma, introduce bacteria into the skin, and lead to nail damage, grooving, pitting, or breakage.
Q: What can I do to stop my nail-biting habit?
A: You can try incorporating strengthening treatments into your nighttime routine, or seek professional help from a nail artist who can provide guidance on how to stop nail biting.
Q: How can I keep my nails healthy and strong?
A: Regularly applying nail treatments, using a cuticle oil, and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals can help keep your nails healthy and strong.
Q: Can I get help from a professional nail artist?
A: Yes, many professional nail artists specialize in helping individuals stop nail biting and can provide personalized guidance and treatment options.