Reddit mentions: The best nail care products

OOOOH raises hand THIS IS ME, I LOVE NAIL POLISH.

....banana.

Ok. Down to business. My favorite product.

Do I have to pick one? I can't pick one. I might do a few.

My favorite nail polish ever is China Glaze Fast Track. Why is it the best? Glad you asked. It's neutral/nude so it's not overwhelming or inappropriate ever (for work or interviews or anything). Also if your nails are in bad shape or if the polish starts chipping or if you just got lazy while applying it, you can't really tell with this one. However, by no means is it boring. The shimmer/sparkle/glittery-stuff in this one is SUPER PRESENT and SUPER PRETTY meaning that your nails will have personality still and be so gorgeous you can't stop admiring the color.

My favorite basecoat/topcoat ever is Revlon Colorstay Basecoat and Revlon Colorstay Top Coat. They are ridiculously priced on Amazon, you can find 'em cheaper in the drugstore real easy. Why do I love them? They're magical. Your polish will actually never chip. I had a polish on for 5 days while doing really hand-intensive tasks (building things, washing them a lot at work, etc.) and my nail polish DID NOT CHIP AT ALL. It was the most mindblowing thing. These ones will make it last and last and last. The Basecoat is really good on its own, you don't need the topcoat for it to be effective. But it's definitely even better with the topcoat - the pair are just a superhero team together.

My favorite cuticle cream is the Burts Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream. It can be greasy when applying but allow a couple minutes to sink in and it will work wonders for your nails and cuticles if they're dry like mine are or just in rough shape. Really great stuff.

Ok last thing. In case you're not wild about nail things, my favorite lotion is the Vaseline Total Moisture Pure Oat Extract one. I picked this up because it was the cheapest lotion (again, probably cheaper at your drugstore and easy to find) and my legs were SO DRY after shaving. Let me tell you, this stuff is the best. I've had problems with dry legs year after year in the summer and I kept trying lotions that didn't do much. This stuff feels SO NICE when you put it on, after and it makes your skin really soft and not dry for days and days. I don't have any problems anymore. So cheap and SO GOOD!

EDIT: I forgot to say why I want dat prize. I have been DYING to try the Moon Candy polishes and magnetic polishes forEVER now but I'm too afraid I won't like them to buy them for myself. Therefore, winning 'em seems like a good solution :P

I've been testing out the various products marketed towards men. The more I explore this Sub though, the more I think these 'male' products should really just be sold as a regular product for all people who want a less shiny finish.

I like wearing clear shiny nail polish, but when I'm at work I don't want to draw too much attention to my nails since I work in a primarily male dominated industry (construction). My boss actually wears clear shiny polish, he's a pretty masculine straight guy too, but I don't think I'm confident enough to wear clear shiny nail polish all the time... yet.

I've tried the following clear, matte/semi-matte products. If you find a glossy pink/pearl tint as mentioned in your main comment, you could use one of the following products over top to remove the 'glossy' finish.

OPI Nail Envy Matte - This is the most natural looking product I've tried. This product isn't even marketed towards men, but it's probably the product that most men who want to wear some sort of subtle polish should consider before trying anything else. OPI Nail Envy Matte looks like you've buffed your nails perfectly but isn't too shiny, no one would really notice you're wearing this, but you will definitely notice how nice your nails look.

Orly Nails For Males - This is also quite natural, but a touch shinier than OPI Nail Envy Matte. If you apply this product as recommended (two coats) people might notice you're wearing something as it makes your nails look really perfect. I actually really like the way this product makes my nails look, but I wouldn't wear it on the construction site.

Essie Man-E-Cure - This is sort of natural, but shinier than Orly Nails For Males. This product makes your nails look really nice, it's more shiny than it is matte and people will definitely notice you're wearing nail polish.

Hope this helps!

Hey!
I think I have similar nails, thin, bendy, ridge covered, uneven smile lines, etc. I used to try to follow blog suggestions on which polishes to use and how to apply them and it never worked for me. But I LOVE painting my nails, so obviously I had to figure something out.

I wipe my nail free of oils with pure acetone, but I do not dry them any more than that. I used to use a ph balancer, rubbing alcohol, various other products marketed towards drying out your nail to keep polish on, but they didn't really help.

I use a base coat that is slightly ridge filling and slightly strengthening. I tested out a LOT of base coats before I found the one that works well with my nails. I needed something that would make my nails bend less, but not make them so hard that they would crack or break. I tried some that would make my nails so hard that they would basically shatter. I ended up really liking this one.

So now that my nails were bending less, it was time to use polishes. They were still peeling off in one big sheet. I decided to stop buffing my nail and let my ridges grow in to their full height haha Although the ridges sometimes slightly showed through the polish (if it was a thinner polish), the polish was lasting longer. I also used to get acrylics (like over 10 years ago) and found that the buffing they did was way too much and my nails wouldn't hold polish for a few weeks after taking them off.

SPONGING. okay, so sponging is the best thing i've ever done. Usually I use it for doing nail art, BUT it makes regular polish last a lot longer for me too! So instead of brushing on the polish, I apply the polish to a makeup sponge and dab it on my nail. I do a few dabs on each nail, and then go back in for a second and sometimes a third coat. It applies the polish in a thin coat and gets in all the little dents and cracks.

I prefer a really thick top coat that dries in a reasonable amount of time. I like Seche Vive (not to be confused with Seche Vite). It covers any remaining ridges, is super glossy, doesn't shrink, and seems to last well on my nails.

I moisturize probably 20 times a day? haha I don't count, but I do have a bottle at every sink (so I moisturize after washing my hands), at my work desk, by my door (the outside air is somehow also drying), and beside my bed. I don't like the feeling of nail oils, which apparently really do help the nails and skin around your nails, so this is how I try to get in as much moisture as I can. I really like the Vaseline Healthy Hands Stronger Nails lotion.

I don't cut my cuticles or hangnails. I just aggressively moisturize them and push them down as needed.

Hopefully some of this helps.

Take care of your cuticles. This video was very helpful to me. If you don't want to remove your cuticles, keep them pushed back (although if it's been a while since you have pushed your cuticles, you may find it easier to just remove them and then keep up with pushing them). A decent cuticle pusher will help keep them under control. I prefer to use a tool like this one that also has a trimmer on one end - I use the trimmer to any hardened skin that's formed at the corners of my nails.

That being said, you should also use a cuticle cream or cuticle oil to help keep the skin around your nails and your nail bed moisturized. I like this cuticle cream, but I have heard wonderful things about Lush's Lemony Flutter as well (it's expensive but trust me, that tub will last you forever). Sally Hansen also makes a cuticle oil that gets the job done just as well. I use my cuticle cream at least once a day (sometimes twice) and it's amazing how much that alone has helped my nails.

If you're constantly messing around with your nails during the day (picking, biting, etc), try your best to curtail that. If a nail is peeling, resist the urge to bite it and file it down instead. Also, file your nails in one direction only - that reduce the risk of splitting the nail.

Lastly, I second the vitamin suggestion. YMMV, but a lot of people find that biotin and prenatal vitamins are very helpful for nail growth. If you want to go the biotin route, I suggest coupling it with a daily multivitamin (which will provide vitamin E as well as all the other important stuff).

A lot of conscious effort to not put my fingers near my mouth! I have a lot of anxiety and whenever I was bored or anxious I would start to bite. I’ve wanted to stop for years, but what made me really quit for good was investing into my nails, if that makes sense.

As soon as they were long enough to do so and my cuticles healed, I got a manicure to get them shaped evenly, which definitely motivated me to keep going because they actually looked nice. I began to use nail strengtheners because years of biting really make my nails brittle. My holy grail nail product is the Bliss Kiss nail and cuticle oil. It comes in a large dropper bottle and a portable pen. Investing actual money into the health of my nails was so worth it, and really helped me stop. The cuticle oil especially changed my nails and cuticles for the better.

If you need any more advice or encouragement, message me! I’d love to help :)

Hey Wyld.

Good luck on this, as you will need it. It is super difficult to quit. I'm about two months clean, though. I've posted a few times the method that worked for me and hopefully it can work for you, too, as I had the exact same issue.

I bought this stuff: http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0 and put it on my fingernails and cuticles. I reapplied every other day. This stuff tastes super bad, but it worked for me. I wore it for about two weeks total and I haven't had an irresistible urge to bite since then. It still goes through my mind pretty commonly, but it is now easy to win that battle with myself.

I strongly recommend giving this a shot and letting me know how it does for you. I wish you all the best on this, as it is a awful affliction to deal with. Good luck.

Let me start by saying this: I would have included a before pic but I was so ashamed that I never took any pictures when I was constantly biting my nails/cuticles. I am in my early 20s and I've been doing this to them since before I can remember (early childhood). I first tried to stop around 14, and have struggled since then. It is such an ingrained stress response/habit that it's taken me years to retrain myself. It was easier to stop biting my nails and I haven't done so at all in 6 months, but my cuticles/surrounding skin are another story. This is something I still struggle with as it's triggered by stress and I don't realize I've started until they're trashed. However, since January it's happened less and less, now maybe once a month or less.

What caused the change in me? Honestly, it was never one single thing. I have been building my ability to resist for years. I realize this is cliche but one important thing is to never give up. I've had too many backslides to count, from 1 day to even half a year at the most. What's helped me is NEVER accepting defeat, and always eventually trying again. One motivating factor was that I've always wanted to have nice nails for getting engaged/married. It was in January that that became an event occurring sooner rather than later, so I will definitely say that has helped me stay focused!

There was one part of stopping the habit that scared me after years of constantly damaging my nails and cuticles: would they ever properly heal and grow back 'normal'? As of yet I still do not have one straight answer. I will say that the strength in my nails has improved, although it is slow going. I am still on the lookout for products to help with this, although I think only time will help. I also tend to have some nails which are very ridged, but they've also continued to smooth out. Finally, there is one cuticle I have which was permanently damaged in a way that's difficult to explain. Basically, it grows in three separate sections, almost as if it's cut. I was absolutely AMAZED when it started to grow 'connected' again! I will say this it sometimes splits still, but it is definitely progress and I hope one day it's completely healed. So, if you're in the same boat and worried permanent damage has been done, I can't make any promises but I will say it's amazing how well they can bounce back - even if it takes months or years to reverse it.

​

What helped me:

• Homemade nail oil pens - all you need are empty containers and Jojoba oil
  
• Burt's Bees lemon cuticle cream - I use this as extra moisturization/to 'seal' in the jojoba oil
  
• Splitting/cracking nails? Use brush on nail glue - WAY more effective/simple than the tea bag technique for me personally!
  
• 24/7 painted nails - letting them 'breathe' may be generally good advice, but I promise you biting them is more damaging
  
• No nail clippers/glass files only - I cannot tell you how much this helped my nails to stay strong and not constantly crack/split
  
  There is honestly so much more I could say but this post would be a book! I'm just taking the time now to sit back and enjoy all of my progress.

Oh! I've been drooling over that color forever. Good choice! ;) Are you a big red fan?

If you have patience, Amazon is seriously a steal for building an arsenal! And if the answer to the patience question is yes... may I suggest...

• Guides for basic designs!
  
  
• If you want to organize your collection! These are super helpful when it starts growing and you want to be able to catalogue and match colors for manis. :)
  
  
  
• Striping tape, for all the lines!
  
  
  
• In case you want to up your cuticle care game :) or maybe this set instead?!
  
  
  
• Dotting tools are you best friend! And if you're into cleaning up your nails, this is a fantastic bundle!
  
  
  
• Gotta keep the nails healthy! and a different option if you'd like
  
  
  
  
• Makes removal so much faster!
  
  
  
  
• A trusty quick dry top coat
  
  
  
• Pair your top with a trust bottom coat!
  
  
  
• Maybe you want to try your hand at nail art?
  
  
  
  That's what I've got for now... Hmm.. What did I miss?

I'm personally not a fan of essie... their polish formulas are very hit and miss, and I find their brushes awkward and a bit tiny.. though if you're aiming for toes first, that could be a benefit! I'm much more in favor of OPI or Zoya... even Sinful Colors.

Some people also have ridges to their toenails... so maybe a ridge-filling basecoat would be helpful to make it a totally smooth application. I personally have the best body-to-polish chemistry when using a ridge filling basecoat, so that's all I use, in general. Don't be afraid to use two thin coats of basecoat- some red polishes can stain.

It wouldn't hurt to get a cuticle remover and gently push back the cuticles around her toes with an orange stick... that'll help the polish adhere the best. Though if you don't want to buy a whole bottle, some cuticle oil and an orange stick works just as well when she's out of the bath... Just make sure you use some isopropyl alcohol to clean the oil off the nails when you're done. Make sure you watch a good tutorial.... even if you don't, it still won't hurt to clean the nails with alcohol after the bath to remove any soap residue.


I also think it would be really good to have a quick dry top coat. .. I believe Essie has 'Good to Go' ... though my personal favorite brand is Seche Vite. A lot of people around here love the Sally Hansen quick dry top coat (it's in a red bottle), but I've never tried it.


Plus cuticle oil for when you're let the top coat dry for~20 min. I recommend Bliss Kiss but Essie has a apricot oil that smells amazing and also works well. If you want to add some more time before the cuticle oil, you could rub some lotion and give a mini calf/heel/foot massage, just avoid the toes. If you use a quick dry top coat, it should be dry to the touch, but still dent/movable if you press into it, but you shouldn't have a problem spreading some oil around the skin surrounding the nails.



Other channels with 'beginner' manicure videos are: Suzie, cutepolish, HannahRoxNails, and Kelli Marissa, just to name a few.

Well, you can start by taking a Biotin supplement or prenatal vitamins. Those will help speed up the growth of your natural nails. You'll also want to get a strengthening polish of some sort. OPI Nail Envy is popular, but I'm not sure what's available where you live. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Hand cream as often as possible. Apply cuticle oil at least once or twice a day. There are tons out there. File your nails gently, and if they're not too sensitive, buff the surface to even it out. Don't over buff it. It shouldn't hurt. After your nail surfaces are stronger and less sensitive, you might want to get a cuticle remover gel and some orange wood sticks. Apply the cuticle remover, let it sit for a minute, and then use the orange wood to gently push back any of the stuff growing up your nails. Wash your hands after using the cuticle remover, if left on too long it could burn your skin. Moisturize.

I linked some products on amazon. Just because I linked specific products doesn't mean that's what you have to use. It might take a little while to figure out the routine that works best for you, but you can do it.

Hey im a nail technician and used to be a horrid nail biter. I've coached many through the habit! Everything these ppl said is true but im going to provide you with some links:

1- Nail file - you dont need a glass one obv but they last forever and are more sustainable.

2- Cuticle Nippers- I would, like u/deskais said, keep them with you all the time for a while and use that when you have a hang nail or rough cuticle you want to pick at. This one is a pretty inexpensive pair that comes with a cuticle pusher to push your cuticles back with.

3- Disgustig nail polish - I've heard tales of people chewing through it but that is mind boggling to me. It tastes awful and will at the very least remind you if you are biting at them subconsciously. There is another brand called "stop the bite" but it wears off and isn't so bad. This one stays on until you remove it.

4- Cuticle Cream. This one is important and would be my #1 choice if you only picked one. Moisturize that shit every day. Keep it on your nightstand or in your car so you dont forget. If they aren't dry, there will be nothing to pick at and they will look so much better.

Id also get a professional manicure just to see how they do it and then that will help you learn how to do it yourself, and it will clean them up and then all you have to do is keep it up with at home care.

​

Good luck! Id love to see a followup post in a month if you remember.

Okay so there's lots of places you can get things, but with some of amazon you might not get things in time so keep your eyes peeled, I'm linking random ones for you. It'd be easier to build your own basket instead of trying to find one. What I would suggest is:

-dotting tools like this

-brushes for art/cleanup like this

-clear stamper/scraper like this

-some stamping plates like this

-liquid latex (so her fingers don't get messy when doing different nail art styles) like this

-makeup sponges (those triangles, for gradients) like this

-striping tape like this

-good base coat (people really like nail envy by OPI and ORLY bonder) OPI ORLY

-good top coat (Seche vite is great) like this


I didn't pay much attention to the prices but a lot of those tools can be purchased fairly cheap, the most expensive things are the polishes and some stamping plates (some are very cheap and can be not so good, some are more expensive but are more likely to work well)

If you need more help let me know!

I found that lil oil pens like this one helped me regularly oil my cuticles which helped a lot! Your nails and cuticles are actually quite nice! That color looks very subtle and elegant. I’ve been learning myself on how to maintain my nails with videos like this one :) best of luck and happy painting!

First off, congratulations! I've been through the struggle with biting multiple times in my life, and I know how hard it can be to finally quit.

I think the most important step in keeping you from starting to bite again is making your nails look great all the time, so that you won't be tempted to try and "fix" them by biting. Your nail length looks pretty good, I'd just maybe file out some of the rough edges if I were you.

The most obvious problem I see here is the dry cuticles, and I'm wondering if you've been picking at them or biting them? If you are, STOP! Your nails look great, but they'd look even better if you had healthy cuticles. There are literally tons of products you can use to moisturize your cuticles, my favorite being Burt's Bees Cuticle Cream. As you can see on related items page, there are a lot of products you can try to help keep them moisturized and healthy if this doesn't work.

Good luck!

whoops I thought I answered this? Obviously not. I just use blue cross cuticle remover and push back my cuticles with an orange stick and then I honestly moisturize cuticles with stuff I hate right now, but I tried my old roommates burt's bees cuticle creme and I LOVED it so I will probs get some soon. Hope that helps!!!

EDIT: I also heard amazing things about ELF's cuticle pen which I'm dying to try too!

I would do a dark brunette with some auburn highlights. You're so pretty any of those 3 colors would look great on you, but I just love the warmth in your hair, but think a few shades dark would look great! (but not of the red, you don't want to go that purple auburn that I rocked for so many years - doesn't look natural or good on most people.
Rainbow

I used to be a nail biter too. This is what helped me:

•Carry a nail file around. Glass nail files are the best IMO. They can take some getting used to since some people get a "scratching on chalkboard" effect when the file at a certain angle. Just file them whenever they get uneven or jagged.

•Use nail strengtheners. I like Nail Tek Foundation since its matte and it makes it difficult to peel or bite layers off. It also makes your nail polish last a long time without chipping.

•Moisturize your cuticles. There are tons of moisturizers out there but it all boils down to which one you think you'll commit to using daily. I like Lemony Flutter because it's creamy and smells like lemony pastry. My sister uses Mango Mend because it has a vaseline-like texture and she prefers the sweet fruity scent.

What you'll need the most is motivation. Look at tutorials and pictures. Soon enough you'll catch Lacquerista Fever like the rest of us.

I know the pain, skin picking was one of my biggest issues back when my nails were longer. A couple things I recommend:

Lotion or some other moisturizer - it can really help keep your skin smooth so it's harder to pick at in the first place. Lots of other people on this sub tend to suggest this and have some ideas for what to use. I see Burt's Bees cuticle cream (amazon link) pretty often on other posts, so maybe give that a shot.

Fidget object - often I find that I start picking at my fingers when I'm nervous or need to keep my hands busy and having something to toy with seriously helps. Often I'll use a ribbon, drum my fingernails on a surface, mess with my hair, or clasp and un-clasp my watch. Anything to keep my hands busy. I recently pre-ordered the highly anticipated fidget cube that many people have been watching on this sub and am hoping for the best.

Keep your nails short - This one is hard for me because I like to keep my nails longer as (a) it lets me use them, (b) acts as positive reinforcement, (c) is necessary if they're ever going to reach a nice shape again, and (d) is nice for drumming on my phone or desk, but by keeping them shorter, it makes it very difficult to pick at the skin or other nails when they start to flake/chip.

That's all I've got. I hope this is in anyway helpful to you or others who have the same problem. Best of luck!

Hi there :) There's this nail polish that tastes icky but looks like a clear coat in order to deter biting. It helps when you don't even know you're doing it. Kinda tastes like ear wax. Hope it helps!

I'm in school to be a vet tech and am also a shelter volunteer, so I know this problem too. My best advice is to keep everything moisturized, including the nails. Use a good cuticle cream (I like LUSH's lemony flutter or Burts Bees lemon cuticle balm). I've noticed that my nail polish lasts longer when I take care of that. I've also had good luck with a sticky base coat like ORLY Bonder. It's hard to find a combination that will stand up to this kind of wear, though. I usually have to redo my nails if I've been doing a lot of cleaning/sanitizing or wearing gloves for long periods, like in lab.

I use a cuticle oil I got from julep on my nails but Essie makes one that Ive used before that I like.

Are you using a base coat when you paint your nails? I found that when I didnt use a base coat my nails seemed to be weaker and more flimsy. OPI makes a good nail strengthener called Nail Envy. A lot if the folk at /r/RandomActsOfPolish consider it their Holy Grail. Though I opted for Essie's Strengthener. It works really well for me.

I would also try to avoid using acetone unless its necessary, I only use it to remove glitters and harder to remove stuff since my nails seem to be sensitive to it. Then I follow with my cuticle oil.

Ive read somewhere that cutting your nails causes damage to them. Im not sure I believe that but I stick to using a glass nail file to keep them in shape and the length I like. Its easier for me to shape with the file.

There is more than one shape you can make your nails (disclaimer: I dont know how well the chart works on what nail shape works for your nails, I just thought it was a good starting point and neat :) ).

I'll add to the mountain of answers with this! I've always been a nail biter, so I have weaker, thinner nails as a result. This is the only thing I've found has really helped strengthen my nails and help with growth as well. I found when my nails grew out, that they weren't as flexible (I could easily bend mine as they got longer before this miracle goo) and seemed thicker. I also like that it helps keep your cuticles moisturized which is very important with nail health. The other great thing is that it's very reasonable and you only need a bit so it lasts a while.

Have you ever thought of including hitting a table punching bag into your self-care routine?

Joking (or not) aside, what makes me look forward to self-care time is that those minutes are completely mine. Example: I do a hair mask once a week, and for it to work I have to keep it on for 10 minutes. That time is pure free-time, a space where I can keep my mind off responsibilities and just stay on my phone/read something/staring into space without it being time wasted because I'm actually using it to take care of my hair! It's just an activity that doesn't require attention.

So my advice is: buy something that takes a while to act (more than five minutes, less than fifteen/twenty) and doesn't require much thinking/preparation, but just sits there doing its thing while you relax and enjoy your "free-time". It also needs to leave you room to move and not restrict your vision or hearing if you wan to read/listen to something.

The bath bombs in your wishlist might work, but they do take longer. My advice is getting

• hair masks (like AMAXY Royal Essence Honey Infused Hair Mask, or Keratin Hair Mask),
  
• face masks (like Laneige's Water Sleeping Mask),
  
• hand masks/gloves (like Moisturizing Gloves Hand Mask - they're made from touchscreen material!),
  
• nail masks (like KOCOSTAR Nail Therapy)
  
• foot masks (like Aveeno Repairing Cica Moisturizing Foot Mask)
  
  The last two leave you with less room, but you just need to listen to podcast/audiobooks, or have everything at hand.

not an artistic tip, just nail care. the best thing that's worked for me to keep my nails strong and healthy is MOISTURIZING! hand lotion after every hand washing and cuticle cream a few times a day.

go to amazon and buy "mavala stop" i swear its the best cure for nail biting. Mine used to be so bad it would hurt and bleed all the time but one coat of this stuff works perfectly for about a week. I guarantee you that you will stop biting with this product it tastes horrible when it gets into your mouth, thats the secret...you'll train yourself, much like pavlov did to his dog! Good luck!

Edit: FTFY http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1334085676&sr=8-1

Edit2: 4 1/2 stars with almost a thousand reviews? i'd say majority are happy with the product (like i am)

If I can put in my two cents, purchasing a good base and top coat to begin with saves frustration and having extra bottles laying around when you finally make the switch. I used to use Revlon Fast Dry base and top, but decided to upgrade. ORLY Bonder is a well-loved basecoat, as is Nail Envy if your nails are damaged/weak. Everyone likes different top coats, but I swear by Seche Vite.

If you're okay with ordering online and want to test out a few OPI polishes for cheap, 10DollarMall has colors for $4.50 and with the code 'FREESHIP', you can get free expedited shipping! :)

I’m sure there are cheaper options but I like these: Bliss Kiss Fragrance Free Starter Kit | Simply Pure Cuticle & Nail Oil | 1 pack includes 4 pens (2ml each) ST-FREE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DONI9TE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3U8SDb19G2MFX

this is a good guide to go by. Also use a nail brush, like this dipped in acetone to clean up around your fingers.

A really good base coat is Orly Bonder, it's highly recommended. As for top coats, a nice fast dry is seche. the key to this one is to apply while the polish is still tacky (slightly wet) and to wrap your tips, this kind of shows how. if your nails are short, heres a trick to help wrap the tips

Yep, dry skin. I recommend a thick cuticle cream. My favorite is Hard as Hoof, which is technically a nail growth/strengthening cream, but it's cheap, ULTRA hydrating, smells nice, and makes your cuticles look and feel amazing.

FYI, if you suffer from brittle/soft/peeling nails, this is also great.

I love short work weeks

It is always awesome when a holiday falls on a work day when you can get it off. Yay for shorter work week. Thanks for the contest.

I feel you so hard! My advice would be to make sure your nail tech gets your cuticles really well, then use cuticle oil religiously for the rest of the week. Trader Joe's sells jojoba oil pretty cheap, and I'm a big fan of this one if you have Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1539616133&sr=1-6&keywords=cuticle%2Boil&th=1

From one DMV bride to another, have an AMAZING wedding week and a better marriage!

My hair gets pretty thin and a couple days ago I tried the Lador Perfect Hair Filler and my hair felt like it had a lot more weight to it. Since then my hair has been a lot less unruly and I will definitely do more of these!

As for nails, I really like Nail Therapy masks. It comes in a pack of 5 and they're enriched with vitamins and botanicals to strengthen and repair the nails. I do one every week or so!

Bingo. There are commercial products as well meant to stop nail biting/thumb sucking. They come with nail polish applicators so it might be a little easier to work with and easier to reapply on to go than something like vinegar. Can't attest to the smell of it. Here are three that have good reviews on Amazon, ranging in price from low, middle and high.

Or, if you like the look of painted nails, I've heard some people say that worked for them. They didn't want to ruin their manicure by biting their nails. This seems less effective to me though because nail polish will inevitably chip regardless and may tempt a biter.

Matte top coat: Perfect Summer Matte Top Coat Gel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014A3VGKA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Stripes on middle finger were done with striping tape: Beaute Galleria 30 Mixed Colors... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JQM5J72?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Cuticle oil: Bliss Kiss Simply Pure Cuticle &... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYMYY2G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Golden polish: Elite99 Gel Polish Soak Off UV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017OWPD9E?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Base coat: Beetles No Wipe Gel Top Coat and... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F12SZDS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Ball point tool used for design draw on ring finger: Yimart 20PCS Nail Art Design... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X6BCY7K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Tool disinfectant: Barbicide Disinfectant 16oz Conc https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00415UVTK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Uv/LED lamp: SUNUV 24W UV Light LED Nail Dryer... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JGG5CH4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Nail drill: Makartt JD700 Professional... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JRGPH46?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Base color 044: Gel Nail Polish Gift Set, 12 Pcs,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075SBNVJ5?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Oiling your cuticles will:

1. make them soft and less tempting to pick at
   
   
2. make the new nail growth stronger and healthier
   
   
3. give you something to do other than biting/picking
   
   
   I like these Bliss Kiss nail oil pens
   
   Many people love Burts Bees cuticle cream
   
   Just put some around your nail on the cuticles and rub it in daily. I also recommend doing your own research to see what works for other people

OK! Short lesson time :D First thing to know is that the cuticle isn't what you think it is! Read this blog entry :)
Ok, now that you know what cuticles actually are, first step is to moisturize those mofos! Even if you just rub in lotion when you put lotion on your hands, they NEED moisture. Preferably use a cuticle balm or oil, and don't forget to apply it to your nails as well!

Next, you wanna remove your cuticles, put on a cuticle remover and push them with a cuticle stick and you can wipe them off with a tissue. This is important because polish doesn't stick to the cuticle. Also, though you aren't supposed to trim the eponychium, I still do because honestly, mine are completely unruly. If you trim them do as little as possible.

I can barely see them, but I'd suggest using a nail oil like jojoba or vitamin E. Also Bliss Kiss sells a [nail and cuticle oil pen for 7$] (https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1499134405&sr=8-4&keywords=nail%2Boil&th=1)

It's not an oil, but I love Burts Bees cuticle cream. I got the Essie sample too and was honestly disappointed. I just like the smell of lemon better, I think. And you can even get a pack of 3 Burts Bees for $11 now.

Lol, Im glad to be a the bearer of good news. Heres the one I use, works fine, and although its small you only need a little bit to flood the cuticle.

If you want to go all in, I also make my own cuticle oil so the skin dries up less, so I dont feel the need to pick at it. I use a mix of jojoba oil w/ vitamin e oil to make it the consistency I want. While its not completely necessary, vitamin e is good for your skin and thickness for application/less runoff. Then put it in a brush pen for easier application and potability so I can have one wherever. You dont need to use the exact ones I have, just this is what I ordered.

These are the products I swear by: Lucas Papaw Ointment and Bliss kiss nail oil. They definitely don't burn and they smell wonderful. I use the papaw ointment on everything--my eye area gets dry too, or my elbows, or as chapstick.

​

I have had some success by trying to keep the damage to one or two fingers. Like "I'm letting everything but the pointer fingers heal" and then I still have an outlet but the other skin gets better and then I'm less likely to pick those. And then I try to bring it down to 1, and then 0. I generally relapse but it's gotten significantly better in terms of severity overall.

My nails peel ssooo much. I use nailtek 3 part system and my nails are doing much better... they’re not as gorgeous as everybody else’s, but pretty damn good for mine! The oil included has been the best I’ve used too.


NailTek Nail Recovery Kit, Cuticle Oil, Strengthener, Ridge Filler - restore damaged nails in 3 steps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007QBKX08/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N0NSCbT4K4B15

Wanted to post something that I recently started that seems to have helped (so far!) I found this while shopping amazon for some unrelated products. I work in a bar, and to clean the glasses we use some really heavy-duty anti-bacterial stuff, so my cuticles and hands get really dry and then I pick / bite at them. I like a lot of Burt's Bees products, and they're all natural/no animal testing so I figured why not try it out.

The product is more like a balm-- I swirl my finger in it and then rub it into my nails and cuticles. It smells absolutely divine, like lemon cakes, but it doesn't really taste great. I started rubbing this stuff into my nails whenever I get the urge to bite/pick and have slowly started to replace the habit with that. I'm not sure if this'll work in the long run, but I already feel the urge to bite and pick lessening. I've been a nail biter and mild dermotillomaniac for as long as I can remember... so that's a huge step for me.

Hope this helps someone! :)

Personally I wouldn't push the cuticles, before I started doing my own nails i hated it when they would do it at the nail salon. I use cuticle eraser whenever i paint my nails and I also rub healthy hoof in every day and moisturize with hand cream (i got that as a gift though, probably any lotion would work.)

I use nailtiques formula 2 as a basecoat. the past few months my nails have been very peely so I have not been painting them as often, just doing clear coat twice a week. I also trimmed them all the way down (not a problem for you yet!) because of that. I started taking biotin last week too, and i've been trying to take all my vitamins (D3, B12, multi) and drink at least 64oz of water a day. I don't have a biting problem but one or all of the products i use make my nails taste awful when i accidentally touch my lips so it might help with the biting.

It sounds like a lot of work but if you leave all your nail care stuff near a place where you spend time sitting still or whatever (I have all my stuff on my work desk) you will see it and remember. I also have a checklist for the water, vitamins, etc so i remember every day.

good luck! i managed to get a coworker to quit biting her nails but now she has a big time indie polish habit so not sure if i ruined her life or not haha

Wow, that's great progress! I know OPI makes a matte version of Nail Envy that would also be good for a guy or anyone who doesn't like or want the look of polished nails.

First, I would always suggest keeping some sort of nail polish on your nails. It puts a protective layer over the top so they will be just a little bit stronger. I have never used coconut or almond oil to moisturize my nails, I use healthy hoof. Its a nail cream that really seems to help me with dry cuticles and nails. Something along those lines should benefit you.

I recently discovered this video and she explains a lot about how to file and shape but also some basic nail care. She also has a massive list of resources in the description that should be helpful.

What kind of gloves do you wear for work? They shouldn't be causing your nails problems, gloves are there to protect your hands and nails.

Hard as Hoof is a hand cream you rub into your nail beds and under your nails. Here is my process:
Remove polish. Wash hands. Hard as Hoof all over them. Wipe off excess. Play with animals for an hour or so. Wash hands. Dinner and other home such things. 1 layer of Nail Envy 1 layer of Rejuvicote.(Though I haven't had any Nail Envy for months and my nails are still super strong). Polish. I have never used it as a top coat or on top of any other polishes. I change my polish every 2 days or so. If I'm going "naked" I'll add a layer of Rejuvicote daily, but that's not too often. I do, however, keep a jar of Hard as Hoof in my desk at work and I apply it several times a day because my hands get really dry shuffling papers. It smells like amaretto and I love it.

I have a little nail oil stick that I carry in my purse and apply throughout the day. My nail person said it helps to fill the pores in the gel which prevents stains and also helps keep it more flexible. If the gel is reacting to something else though, I don't know if that would help.

I buy Gelish from Sally's Beauty Supply.

Hey congrats! You're doing great! I used to bite my nails for years. What helped me was this nail polish that tastes absolutely horrible if you go to bite your nails. It worked great for me, hope this helps!

Barielle No Bite Pro Growth, 0.5 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012CD32W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZTrcBbDVBX7BP

\u\nixygirl recommended rejuvacote to me and I've been using it everyday. It just kinda soaks into the nail, doesn't build up like opi nail envy. This stuff is working great for me. I have peeling nails too, and this stuff seems to help keep them together. Here's the link to amazon http://www.amazon.com/Duri-Cosmetics-rejuvacote-Rejuvacote-0-61oz/dp/B000G33KEO/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397573323&sr=1-1&keywords=duri+rejuvacote

Good luck!

I love love love picking and tearing at the skin above my nails. I don't bite my nails, but I attack all that rough skin there.

I also want to stop! The best thing that's worked for me is a thick cuticle balm. Burt's Bees, or Badger Balm both make a product like this. I keep it with me especially for occasions when I'm prone to picking: during a movie, while reading, studying, long car trips.
The act of rubbing balm into each fingertip fulfills the compulsion to do something with my hands. And when you're done the skin is soft & impossible to tear at! Also it does not taste good. Try it!

Link: http://www.amazon.com/Burts-Bees-Cuticle-Creme-Butter/dp/B00013YYS0

I use this cuticle remover https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Cross-Cuticle-Remover-Oz/dp/B00GNHNY16 and a high-quality, sharp pair of cuticle nippers for the initial preparation. The painting part takes a fair amount of practice - go really slowly (gel/shellac polish makes this easier because it doesn't dry on its own), make sure your foundation layer and first layer of color are really thin, add a third layer of color even though most directions say to only use two, and get as close to the cuticle as you can without touching it. Have a really tiny paintbrush and some acetone ready to touch up any errors, and do all of the layers on one hand before moving to the next. I hope that's helpful!

Thanks everyone! All great tips. I just ordered this hopefully it helps!

Congratulations on losing weight! My dad is also trying to lose a bit (75 lbs!) of weight by the time summer comes around :) Good luck, and keeping working at it!
Orly Bonder is something I've been eyeing for a while :) $6.75!

Lifelong nail biter here. I tried Mavala Stop and it worked for a while. It's nice to see your nails grow and I even had to use a nail clipper once! I did eventually relapse, but I wish you the best.

I've never used Nail Envy, I'm dying to, but I do use Millionails! It works well, I have no complaints! I used to wear it over my bare nails, without anything over, adding a new coat every couple days, and now I use it as a base coat. I can't really compare it to Nail Envy, but my nails are super strong now!

Sometimes, after a long shift at work washing dishes etc, my nails might feel a little weak, so I use Hard as Hoof's Nail Strengthening cream before I go to bed, and a few times throughout the day, too!

Hope this helps!

Make sure you use a good base coat, too. I like Orly Bonder. Seche Vite top coat is amazing.

No, you wouldn't slather it all over your hands - it goes on like clear nail polish. But that stuff tastes awful, and the taste will probably get all over your hands anyway, especially the cuticles. I don't remember it smelling like anything.

I would recommend that you ask your pharmacist, but this is an example of what I found online: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0000YUXI0

Good luck!

For me, honestly, I just realized that two of my incisors were so worn down from biting my nails that they couldn't touch anymore when I bite, so I just quit cold turkey. As /u/rjjm88 said, if you have something good to replace it with for the auto-oral response (something to chew on when you're nervous/stressed), it helps out a ton. I actually work at a cigar shop and smoke quite a few cigars, which I inevitably end up chewing on as I smoke them. Not that I recommend that, but as said, have something you can nibble on handy and it'll help a bit. There's also stuff like this,, though that gets a little extreme.

Haha i just needed to constantly mess with something. Also side note dont use nail strengtheners; they make your nails hard yes, but they break easily. If you use nail oils it makes them more flexible and if you hit your nail against something it will bend but won't break. [Oil that I use](Bliss Kiss Pure Cuticle & Nail Oil Pen - Crisp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_H86LybJQJ2X0P)

I have to go to work from 2:30-7:30 at a craft store too! First day back after being home all summer. I mostly work on the register though. I guess this isn't a really crazy story, but we always have this one woman come in about an hour before closing. She hardly ever buys anything, but instead wanders around and picks up loose beads, fake flower heads, etc. Then she comes to the register and rambles on a bit about random things and asks to take home whatever crap she's selected. The one time she did buy something, it was the clearance scrapbook paper that were like 7 cents each. She then told me she doesn't even scrapbook, she just like collecting the paper. I can't even imagine what her house looks like. -_- people be crazy

I would love this if i win!

Definitely should be using cuticle oil 2+ times a day! Pens like these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J6J9D9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zKGPDb92AH19A are great for portability!

Hi and welcome! I suck at makeup... mostly just powder my nose and maybe wear some eyeshadow/mascara. I'm good at nail polish though!

First, get yourself a good base coat and a good top coat. I recommend Orly Bonder and Out the Door. Most people here will recommend Seche Vite which is awesome, but may be hard to use until you learn how to wrap your nail tips.

There are products designed to prevent nail biting that will help short term. Getting manicures is supposed to help too. It will really help if you can figure out why you bite your nails, though. That way you can deal with the root cause if it's something like anxiety, replace with something healthy if it's a habit when you're bored, etc.

When I was a kid, I used to bite my nails. My mom thought it was the worst thing in the world, so she tried everything she could think of.

One of them was an anti-nail-biting nail polish, which did help for a bit. It tastes bitter, so when you unconsciously put your hands in your mouth, you realize it and stop.

Here are a few I found from a quick Google search:

CVS $5

Amazon $10

Walmart $3

I usually buy everything at Amazon, but it's the most expensive in this instance. I think a trip to the local pharmacy might be quicker and cheaper, in any case.

Oh, and the nail biting? Silly mom... it went away when I gained confidence in myself and my abilities (I was a nerdy little kid and my mom helped wimp me up by mothering me to death.)

I only mention that last bit because perhaps there's a psychological root to your dilemma.

The nail polish may help in the immediate sense, but if you ask yourself where the behavior is coming from, you might end up solving a bigger issue for yourself.

It's hard to tell someone how to care for their nails. You have to find what works for you because everyone is different. Here are a couple things that work for me. Use the finest glass file you can find and buff the ends with very fine sandpaper (I use 1500 grit) every day and do not skip a day. I also use two creams Hoofmaker as a moisturizer throughout the day and Hard as Hoof when I'm not playing.

I would also recommend picking up Scott Tennant's Pumping Nylon and Christopher Parkening's guitar method books. Refer to the sections about nail care.

I've had some success with this stuff. A few months after I stop using it, I do relapse to some extent. I'm definitely better than I used to be though, and never bite to the extent that I once did (i.e. like the thumb in the image).

https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

This stuff is pretty awesome. It's worked decently well for me.

I'd love this cuticle butter from my Add-Ons list.

As for the TV - don't worry about bells and whistles. Does it fit the space you're putting it in? Does it have plenty of connections for all your doodads? You don't need a smart TV if you've got Xbox. Even if the Xbox dies in a few years you can always just pick up a Roku. Just stay in your budget. You don't want to sit down to watch TV and end up just staring at a screen you still owe money on. It really cuts in on the relaxing!

Use a strengthener on your nails. If you have weaker nails they bend easily, and that causes first the teeny cracks you're seeing (you flex the nail and the polish cracks instead of flexing too). My mom had the same issue and this stuff fixed it for her after a few weeks of use!

I know gel polish is rad, but if you're like me and can't afford the time or money to get them done every couple weeks this might be a good option.

Duri Rejuvacote will strengthen your nails and prevent peeling, also makes a great top coat. I heard a story about a chemo patient who used it to grow her nails back quickly. Just be careful not to get it on your cuticles bc it will make them grow like crazy too.

I've been using Bliss Kiss pens. I actually peel the label off them so I can see the jojoba oil better. I find it really satisfying to watch the tube get smaller and smaller every day.

Would love to try this to see if it helps me stop biting my nails!

Study Sunday :)

Nail oil!
and streghthener/hardener as well as regular shaping. My index and middle fingers peel if I don't file at least 1x every 4 days.

Bliss Kiss nail oil is my holy grail nail oil. http://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Cuticle-Starter/dp/B00DIJPH5I

There is specialty nail Polish you can get specifically for stopping nail biting. It tastes horrible like I'm talking horrible. Something like this

Here are some really good tips from dermatologists.

Here

The one I found that helped me when I was stopping was the last one try stopping gradually so one nail at a time so both thumbs then your thumb and second fingers till you have developed healthy habits. It's going to take a lot of patience so don't give up if you fail the first couple of times. It is a habit and habits are hard to break or replace but it is possible I was a chronic nail biter for 10years I replaced it with playing with my hair and when I'm stressed I tap out a tune on my fingers it still involves my hands but I'm not wrecking my nails or fingers.

This ladies blog is genius it is honest and she herself was a sufferer and knows how it feels to fail and what you go through having bad nails and the disappointment. She is also realistic and tries to find the route of the issue and give you realistic ways to stop the biting.

Here

But most of all don't give up we are all here to support you and I'm sure your partner would love to support and help you.

Good luck ♡

I use Duri Rejuvacote. I actually stumbled onto it at Walmart. It's actually rated higher than OPI nail envy on Makeup Alley. I'm sure either would be good though. I've been using the Rejuvacote for about 3 weeks now and have had no breaks, tears or anything. I love it! I've never had my natural nails this long or strong before.

For the finger sucking: My four year old doesn't suck his fingers while he's wearing [Thum] (http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/thum-b-sucking/nail-biting-liquid/ID=prod922-product) . The only trick is consistency. If that turns out to be too weak, Mavala Stop has better [reviews on Amazon] (http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413493717&sr=8-1&keywords=thum) but it sounds like it might be too strong in some cases.

Bliss Kiss Simply Pure Cuticle &... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J6J9D9O?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It’s the first one I’ve tried so I have nothing else to compare it to but still it smells nice and I haven’t picked for over two weeks!

Happy birthday!

I have been eyeing Orly Bonder for a while now. I'm hoping it will keep my polish from peeling off within 24 hours.

What kind of music do you listen to?

I was exactly the same for like 15 years. until i found this stuff:

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

this nasty shit is like magic. i had this on for a week, (only 1 application) and I slipped once or twice, but that awful taste does something to your subconscious and I haven't had the urge to bite at all since. any small urges are easy to resist now. I would offer to give you the bottle, but I want to save it for a while just in case.

Simply Pure nail oil

On mobile so I hope that worked.

Put this on your nails a few times a day & your nails will improve. My nails used to peel like crazy so I couldn't grow them out. I've been using this for over 2 years now & my nails don't peel so much, they're stronger, more flexible (so they bend instead of snap off), & I'm filing them down every week because they grow faster.

1: oh hey errmagerd! Thanks for the contests!

2: such nail art - Star Wars mani. I worked really hard on this one.

3: this is how we do it - I wish I had a secret for nail care! I've tried SO many products recommended here (and given them each a month of use) with no luck - but maybe one will work for you: Sally Hansen Complete Care, OPI Nail Envy Original, OPI Nail Envy Maintenance, ORLY Bonder, and Nail Tek. Still my nails peel at the tips. I really don't know what to do, aside from keeping my nails trimmed short or not polishing at all. I'm trying this by Sally Hansen, now. I've only been using this for one week, so it's too early to tell. I do use cuticle oil, and like most people here, I use Emerald & Ash (as well as Rainbow Honey & Essie Apricot Oil) - though, I'm not as religious about it as I probably should be. I tend to wait until my cuticles look in rough shape. >.>

My dog used to eat electrical cords all the time. Surprisingly even chewing through them never shocked him (not that I'd recommend it...just saying)

2 things that totally worked for us.

1. Stop Nail Biting Polish painted on the cords. It tastes awful. It's not tempting after the first lick.
   
   
2. I cut a super hot pepper (serrano) and rubbed the pepper oil up and down the length of the cord. It didn't last as long as the polish, but it was cheaper and WAY more effective. He would still check them out with the polish, but after the serrano he was done with cords forever.

Hey! Since you're willing to buy, are you in the US? You don't have to buy from a user here-- Orly Bonder is available in a lot of beauty stores, including Sally's and Ulta. If you're not in the US, you can find Bonder easily online.

The Color Club Holos are readily available on Color Club's website.

Check out the matte OPI Nail Envy.
It's marketed more towards men because it isn't shiny and no one would think you are wearing "paint." Its an AMAZING strengthener and the matte version is nearly invisible. I promise your male-ness won't be compromised with this stuff :)

EDIT: Just noticed the product description literally says "Ideal for Men." Also make sure it's the matte Nail Envy, not the matte Top Coat. They look similar but are very different.

Nothing to 'cure' them, but a great ridge filler is https://www.amazon.com/Nailtek-Foundation-Ridge-Filling-Nail-Strengthener/dp/B0002DLEJG

Using a cuticle cream (I use this one) will get rid of your hangnails if you use it at least a couple times a week for about a month (at least for me it did). More often may help get rid of them faster, but I'm not sure. It also softens your calluses around your nail area, and it smells fantastic!

Definitely need hydration. I like Burt's Bee's Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream because it's thick and very hydrating. I really slather it into my cuticles and let it soak in when I'm not using my hands too heavily (i.e. at work, on the computer, watching tv).
As others have said, a manicure would definitely do you good as well. They'll be able to trim away all of the dead cuticle and really moisturize in one go. You'll still need to work on keeping them maintained in the long run.

Just what it sounds like, cream for your cuticles.

I use this stuff, because it works well and smells good. :)

Ouch! I know that pain well.

As the other person said, nail oil is great. You can buy nail oil pens pre filled, or you can buy a bunch of empty ones and fill them with your own oil. They make it nice and easy to apply and it means you don’t get oil everywhere.

Apply it every time you remember!

Also, buy some cuticle clippers to clip the hang nails so you don’t pull or tear at them (because ouch! That just causes more pain!).

As for how to stop the picking / biting? That’s a hard one. I pick at the dry skin around my nails and then it gets worse, so I pick at it more ... rinse, repeat. It’s a vicious cycle.

I’ve found wearing coloured polish helps because I want it to last and I want it to look good. Are you allowed to wear colours at work?

/r/calmhands might have some better advice, but these are some starting points for you!

Not that you necessarily looking for solutions to stop, but I'd recommend something like this. It tastes bitter and encourages you to keep your nails out of your mouth.

Embryolisse lait creme concentre is the most amazing moisturizer/makeup primer ever and if you have dry skin and it's within your budget you're kind of obligated to buy it imo.

I also swear by the Blue Cross cuticle remover to get rid of my calloused heels. After you shower and your feet are a lil soft put some of it on a pumice stone and get scrubbing. It's like you never had them in the first place.

This stuff is pretty amazing. :)

This was my savior Good luck!

Products used:

Prep: Hard as Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream

Color: Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure: Society Ruler

Topcoat: Sally Hansen Insta Dri: Clearly Quick

Stamping Polish: Maniology’s Bam! White

Stamping Plate: Maniology M014

I stopped biting my nails in mid-March and started using China Glaze's Calcium Gel Fortifier for my very weak and thin nails.

Products I use:

• China Glaze Calcium Gel Fortifier
  
  
• Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream
  
  
• Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail and Cuticle Oil
  
  
• Aveeno Active Naturals Intense Moisture Skin Relief Hand Cream (because I ran out of the really nice Sally Hansen stuff I've had forever and can't find it anymore)
  
  EDIT: It's a little hard to see unless you open the picture all the way up, but it's not just that the nails are longer, but that the skin around the nails and cuticles is much healthier. On Day 1 you can see flaking skin and spots where I had pulled the skin in runners toward the knuckle. Those are gone by day 28!

I bought this stuff, which has been pretty helpful so far. Problem is - and maybe it's because I don't know how to apply nail polish - the stuff gets on my food when I eat.

On fin and have this issue, though attributes it to liberal hand sanitizer use vs anything else.

Burt’s Bees makes a cuticle cream that works really well. I apply it most mornings and it prevents this.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00013YYS0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_P7BLBbFG52CS4

Nail Buffer Use this weekly. It'll remove stains, get rid of ridges and shines. It's a 3 part process. Only do it once a week, any more and your nails will get too thin.

Vitamin E oil, they sell it at Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, and Dollar General. Rib a little on your cuticles before bed each night.

Cuticle Remover If you have an excess amount of cuticle growth. Rub this into your cuticles and let it set for several minutes. Then push back your cuticles carefully with these thingys.

My son bites his nails down to nothing.

We’re trying some nail biting prevention polish with success for two weeks: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0012CD32W/ref=mp_s_a_1_9_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1550508097&sr=8-9&keywords=nail+biting+treatment+for+kids&dpPl=1&dpID=41Bpr4MJKCL&ref=plSrch

Adults also report success at self-application, so maybe it’s worth a try? It may not get to the root of the fixation but it may keep your fingers out of your mouth and that’s something.

Ooooh! Look what ya girl found (:
NailTek Nail Recovery Kit, Cuticle Oil, Strengthener, Ridge Filler - restore damaged nails in 3 steps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007QBKX08/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sSODDbNKFQK8C

Hey man, ive been a nail biter for about probably 15+ years. decided to get rid of this nasty habit and bought some nail biting detergent polish. it honestly is so repulsive you will not want your hands near your mouth. ive almost kicked my habit but i need to constantly reapply it. i strongly recommend this for anyone battling this.

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https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-biting-ounces/dp/B0000YUXI0

I have the pens and a refill bottle of the oil, and I love it. You can buy a single pen to try it out from [Amazon]
(https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Pure-Cuticle-Nail/dp/B00DYMYY2G)...

Yeah I understand. You can use something like this where you can buy a nail polish that helps you stop biting your nails. Though it is a bit expensive for some "nail polish" so look into something comparable.

https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474316112&sr=8-1&keywords=stop+biting+nails&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011

there are a couple different ways to stop sucking your thumb. What I recommend is this clear "nail polish". It doesn't look like anything is on your nail and when you put it in your mouth it has a foul taste, discouraging the habit. Link: https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-Nail-Biting/dp/B0000YUXI0

In addition, it sounds like you have a fair amount of anxiety. Perhaps talking to your doctor about it may help.

-)

I swear by this stuff for my nails. Can be messy to deal with but to me it's worth it.

Gena Healthy Hoof Cream - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006Q00ZI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_i0vtDbA7BBYRF

I just stopped biting a two or three weeks ago. I'm using Mavala Stop (literally the grossest thing I have ever tasted) and using Duri Rejuvacote to get them to grow faster... (not sure about the results yet :) Congrats to you! We're all gonna make it :)

That is a great idea! I used something called Mavala Stop which is a cheaper alternative I guess. It is ridiculously effective and under $15.

• Here's a link

There are a few products that could help:

Mavala Switzerland Mavala Stop nail biting, 0.3 Fl Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_C7.rDbX6XSVJ3

Nail Quail - Strong Will Anti-Nail Biting Click Pen, 7ml, Made in USA https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MXXFB59/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x8.rDbM19GQQS

I have bit my nails all my life and was finally able to stop 2 years ago (I'm 28 now) because of this stuff. It's just nasty. Keep putting it on and be consistent with it. Once they've grown out more there are lots of products you can use to help strengthen your nails.

If you're super desperate, I've heard good things about hypnosis.

I just saw a nail oil on amazon using a shot from her nail growth video. Truly inconsiderate. https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Pure-Cuticle/dp/B00DYMYY2G/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_img_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=9941T9077XTBMN0ZHD6H

I quit by applying a nasty, bitter, clear nail polish a few times a week. I grew up with the Thum brand, but it received poor reviews on Amazon. So here's something similar.

Or just check out what pinworms do.

Good luck!

You can find it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-biting-ounces/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1542292009&sr=1-4&keywords=mavala%2Bstop&dpID=41TVkUE41OL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch&th=1

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It's from switzerland so not sure it shows up in stores like walgreens.

> nails

Give them some care! ^ ^ This thing here helped me wonders.

I agree with the other commenters, and think that seeing a psychologist would be an excellent idea. No five year old should have to live with that much stress, and finding a better way to help him let go of it is imperative.

In the meantime, there's a special type of bitter-tasting nail polish that can help him keep those fingers out of his mouth. I used to bite so much that my fingers would bleed and I'd end up with nasty infections. My parents used a product like the linked one (this was almost 30 years ago so I have no idea which brand), and I hated it with a fiery passion, but it sure as heck got me to stop biting.

silhouettes

lemon butter! :)

I have a similar unconscious habit, and I need a strong and consistent reminder not to do it. Paint this stuff on the parts that you don't want to bite, and you will quickly learn not to bite there =;-)

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: http://smile.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0


|Country|Link|
|:-----------|:------------|
|UK|amazon.co.uk|
|Canada|amazon.ca|




This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

Use this next time and see if he still laughs

You might try hard as hoof it is a nail strengthening and cuticle conditioning cream.

I'm in a much better financial situation than I was 2 weeks ago!

I need some of this stuff

Sparkles

Thanks for doing this! :D

Use this on your fingernails, and carry these with you religiously... if you get a hangnail, or you've made a rough edge, clean it up with those instead of chewing. You can probably get both at your local grocery store or pharmacy.

Links for anyone who is interested:

Chevron stickers

Dotting tools

Stripe tape

O.P.I Nail Envy

Nail varnish may work, but as a guy I'm sure I'd get a few stares if I wore some. Although I've been thinking about this.

I've heard good things about this.

Mavala Stop worked for me, and another person I know. Good stuff.

No, it's completely clear.

Nice plant 👍🏼

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4UKpDbDAVZBPQ

https://www.amazon.ca/Mavala-Biting-Thumb-Sucking-Ounces/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_1/134-1953215-8290806?ie=UTF8&qid=1517512419&sr=8-1&keywords=nail+polish+for+biting

It's clear and cheap and you just paint it on your nails. This will stop you from biting. The tough part is to then stop yourself from creating a new habit that is picking at your finger nails with your other finger nails lol.

I used to do that a lot when I was younger so my mum suggested that I use a special nail polish,that prevents you from biting your nails.It really worked as it was bitter like hell..if you forgot about it and were tempted to bite, you regretted the next moment.after 2 months or so the detering reflex grew so strong on me that I've never bitten my nails since.The brand is called Mavala,it's clear btw,no colour..

https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-Nail-Biting/dp/B0000YUXI0

1. Wear something close to your skin tone so it appears nude or choose a light pink.
   
   
2. If you need extra help breaking the habit I suggest this stuff: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0000YUXI0

Strengthening base coat. I personally use this one, by Nailtek, but there are others that you can grab at any drugstore, like OPI Nail Envy.

I bought this one from amazon -$5.49 + $1.28 shipping- and it's legit! Amazon just has stuff cheaper. Plus Ulta marks up stuff a lot.

I've heard this helps.

So sorry for the late response but what really helped me stop nail biting once and for all is to use the Mavala nail polish that is specifically designed to stop nail biting (you can get it on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-Nail-Biting/dp/B0000YUXI0 or https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Helps-Biting-Thumb-Sucking/dp/B00336WT3O). The taste is sooo bitter and disgusting that you don't want to put your finger back in your mouth. The only downside is that it can rub off onto finger foods or cooking, so if you eat chips or grab food with your nails you will taste the polish. But it's a small price to pay for long term reward. I cannot tell you how badly my nail biting was until I used this nail polish and now I have the longest nails out of all my friends. I hope you try it out some time! Good luck!

I used this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0000YUXI0/

Took a couple of months, but it was worth it.

What if I told you that I have a solution that is on about ten bucks? http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Sparkles maybe I can go a week and not break a nail

yea gloves is a little weird go the polish route then it should help and i'm sure your local pharmacy carries anti biting polish example

Get something like this. Pretty much makes your nails taste like shit.

I just started using this bitter nail polish. I didn't paint my entire nail since it's a bit shiny and I'm a guy.

So I dipped a toothpick into the polish and applied it just to the very edge of the nail and under the nail. The polish stays on for a long time and a small amount is all you need. This stuff is gross but is long lasting.

I also found that I bite my nails when I drive. So I bought driving gloves. I'm sure I look silly to others but I can't bite my nails with them on.

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

There is nail polish that tastes horrid on Amazon. I've been using it and it coats your whole mouth with nastiness. I haven't bit my nails in a week.

https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-Nail-Biting/dp/B0000YUXI0

I love looking at my nails now.. they at least aren't a hot mess of blood and skin anymore!

I may not be the best at nail care but I have Trichotillomania and I bite my skin/pull hair and all that jazz. I used to bite my nails but used this:http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0 when I was a teenager and even though I still pull hair/have other compulsions I don't ever bite my nails any more!

https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Worth a shot.

Give Mavala Stop a shot. I've tried some of the other similar concepts and quickly grew used to the taste. This one is pretty awful and serves as a very fast reminder when I'm doing it unconsciously.

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Unfortunately, this also makes anything you touch with your fingers taste like shit. It's an unfortunate side effect, but I'll take it (my biggest problem is remembering to put the stuff on in the first place, once on it does a pretty good job).

Here you go! I guess it's not an off-brand and I've seen it at Ulta but it's much cheaper at $6 with free shipping than Nail Envy. Also, I've heard some pretty negative things about Nail Envy and this has never failed me.

I've bit my nails since I was a little kid. At the end of January my GF bought THIS from Amazon. Two applications was all it took, I haven't bit my nails since the first week of February.

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0 The quicker you can get her to stop the better.

First, maybe try painting your nails with this. It doesn't work for everyone, but it may help to provide a negative association with the biting. I find chewing on something else really helpful as well. Then head here: /r/CompulsiveSkinPicking, you may find something helpful.

I unfortunately already picked at my face (I have acne) and bit/chewed my hands long before the idea that I might have ADHD was even on my radar, and Adderall has not (yet) seemed to help. It is difficult to break, especially when you've been doing it since childhood (in my case). For me, a combination of harm reduction (always carrying bandages, alcohol pads, Neosporin in case I scratch myself - Hands are dirty even just washed) and redirection (instead, trim my nails, shave my face, do a face mask, put on expensive lotion) has been helpful.

And perhaps mention it to a psych. Could be other stuff going on.

Painted this on my nails for a few weeks. The hardest part was just convincing myself that I actually wanted to stop. I still miss it, but it's so nice not being embarrassed when my cuticles randomly start bleeding.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012CD32W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3E1GAbGB1J89F

I agree. We used this on our kid and he stopped. Available on [Amazon] (http://amzn.com/B0000YUXI0).

If you want to quit.

I bought the above for my boyfriend.. he's a nail-biter. Nearing the end of the first week and it seems to be working.

If you don't want to quit.. why not?

I use clear nail polish on my nails to put a physical barrier there. I don't like the plastic texture of it. I use this this when I know I'm going to be stressing out: https://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Switzerland-Stop-Nail-Biting/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522717374&sr=1-4&keywords=mavala

It works really well during finals. It usually takes only one application to remind me not to bite. In addition, I file regularly (once or twice a week) to keep the edges from splintering. I also use a lot of cuticle oil to keep my cuticles from getting dry. At night, I use a really thick hydrating cream to make my hands smoother. It all keeps me from picking at everything.

Mavala Stop - Helps Cure Nail Biting and Thumb Sucking, 0.3-Fluid Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Y7nJybD2451FE

Nail biter for 40 years here. Former nail biter, I should say. This was the ONLY stuff that helped me. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING rid the taste in my mouth. Also used it on LO for thumb sucking.

Mavala Stop - Helps Cure Nail Biting and Thumb Sucking, 0.3-Fluid Ounce

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_s4XNzqJAAnEJG

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This stuffs what you want

edit- Cleaned up the link

You need to come up with some kind of "competing behavior" for nail biting, generally something that you can't do it and bite your nails at the same time. There are products like this or you could put band-aids (preferably the fabric ones since the texture isn't pleasant to have in your mouth and gets your attention) around the tips of your fingers. Just something like that that you can do that is incompatible with nail biting until eventually the habit is broken.

paint your nails with bitterant

/uj seriously

We just tackled this like 2 weeks ago, and it only took 2 applications of this: mavala stop .

2.5 year old and was very attached to his thumb, so I was surprised at how quick it worked. He still hasn’t figured out how to settle down before naps/bed, so it takes a little more time to get him to sleep.

Try this, friend.

Yep most canned air is laced with denatonium benzoate:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denatonium

Another thing you could try is acrylic nail polish that comes with denatonium designed to stop nail biting:

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Amazon Although I did see that says but to be used for children under 3, so its only an option if nothing else works until then...

There are biting deterrent aids that you can try. Here is one http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Chewing gum and also using anti-nail biting polish.

Or this : https://www.amazon.ca/Mavala-Biting-Thumb-Sucking-Ounces/dp/B0000YUXI0

http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0

Because the same principle works for kids too.
http://www.amazon.com/Mavala-Stop-Biting-Sucking-0-3-Fluid/dp/B0000YUXI0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371741762&sr=8-1&keywords=thumb+sucking+stop