Strategy: Hypnosis
Effectiveness ranking: 5
OK, I’ve never actually tried hypnosis for this problem specifically but I have completed Paul McKenna’s Change Your Life in 7 Days, a self-hypnosis program where you listen to a CD that aims to help you meet your goals. I didn’t notice any improvement in my cuticle situation but I am smart enough and people do really like me. But in all seriousness, it was really relaxing, and if anxiety is your main trigger, I can imagine this would be helpful during a rough patch.
Strategy: Keeping your mouth busy by chewing gum
Effectiveness ranking: 5.7
This takes care of some of the problem, but I just switch to picking with my fingers. I also already tend to chew a lot of gum to keep cavities at bay. I worry if I up it any more, I’m afraid I might get jaw problems, and then I’d just be a cuticle-picker with TMJ.
Strategy: Wearing gloves around the house
Effectiveness ranking: 7
This is a good one to include in your repertoire in your personal time, but not so much at work. And it makes it hard to type. Typing is essential to my job. The gloves are off here in more ways than one. Also, it makes me feel like Minnie Mouse.
Strategy: Those nail-biting serums
Effectiveness ranking: 8.3
These are effective at making you not put your fingers in your mouth for sure, but again, I just move to picking with my hands. Plus, I never remember to reapply after washing my hands throughout the day. But if you’re a biter-only, this one would definitely move up the list.
Strategy: Applying cuticle oil regularly
Effectiveness ranking: 9
OK, this one actually helps—by keeping your skin really moisturized, it’s harder to pick at. The only problem is that your hands get all slippery, so it’s kind of annoying. Plus, you end up with cuticle oil all over your life, so there’s that. My favorite is CND SolarOil Nail & Cuticle Conditioner, which is the most hydrating formula I’ve ever found. But be warned: It smells like an almond cookie so you might be drawn to it if you’re a biter.
Strategy: Regular manicures
Effectiveness ranking: 10
I’ve had the most success when I get a mani weekly. No rough spots = less picking. Unfortunately, this also costs money. Sure, I get offered services through work, but I can’t take advantage of that every week. And while I’m happy to play into a lot of lifestyle-writer stereotypes (I’m highly verbal and I have a lot of shoes!), the “on the brink of bankruptcy” thing isn’t cute.
Despite all the trial and many, many errors, I'm still keeping these most of these tricks in my bag, because one day maybe, just maybe, when my hands emerge from the “soaking” portion, my cuticles won’t look like diseased tree bark. One can dream.
