HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: I’m 24, and I still bite my nails. I’m trying to stop, but it’s been such a habit for most of my life that it seems impossible to quit this disgusting habit. I know that with covid and other illnesses, I can risk my health by biting my nails, but how can I stop? My co-workers have even commented on how unattractive my hands look with such chewed-up nails and have tried to help me, but nothing has worked so far. — Katharine B., Auburn, N.Y.

DEAR KATHARINE:

About 20% to 30% of Americans bite their nails, and many are not even aware they do it. First, be patient with yourself. Find out what your triggers are. Could it be stress, anxiety or even just boredom?

Treat yourself to a manicure, which helps you become more aware of when you bite your nails because of the taste and texture. Try to keep your nails short so that there is less nail to bite off. Your teeth won’t be able to get a grip on the nail that way.

You might also want to try habit reversal training. When you get the urge to stick your fingernail between your teeth, pick up something to do, such as knitting, needlepointing or maybe cross-stitching. Chew gum or put a piece of hard candy in your mouth. When you’re at home, you also might want to try wearing gloves on your hands. Any kind of glove can work here.

If the urge to bite your nails persists amid your efforts pamper your hands with lotions and oils instead.

Breathing exercises also might help, especially if your nail-biting is triggered by anxiety. Don’t be too hard on yourself. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages people to take a calm and gradual approach to the problem of nail-biting. Remember, you can do this!

DEAR HELOISE: I work for a major airline, and I have a few hints for your readers to avoid arguments while flying:

▪ Keep your feet off someone else’s armrest, and do not remove your shoes and socks while in flight. The carpets on planes aren’t as clean as the ones at home.

▪ Got long hair? Don’t flip your hair over the back of your seat. No one wants another person’s hair hanging in front of them or dangling above their food. I don’t care how clean your hair is; it’s unsanitary.

▪ Please ask the person behind you if it’s OK to recline your seat a little before you relax completely.

▪ Lastly, please don’t fight with other passengers or the flight crew. We just follow the rules; we don’t make them.