I can’t seem to stop biting my nails.

Apr 11 2012

I can’t seem to stop biting my nails. Could I really be hooked?

—Stacey J., Cleveland, OH

The myth that your nails contain an addictive chemical is just that: a myth. Most nail biting is simply a nasty habit— one that can spread germs and cause bleeding and infections. Try wearing unbreakable fake nails or coating your own with a bitter ointment like Control- It. In extreme cases, biting could signal an anxiety problem, so talk to your doc.