What does onychophagy refer to?

Onychophagy specifically refers to the act of nail biting, which is a common habit among many individuals. This behavior can lead to various issues, including damage to the nail bed and surrounding skin, potential infections, and unsightly nails. It is often considered a nervous habit and can be related to stress or anxiety. Awareness of onychophagy is important for nail technicians and beauty professionals to help clients understand the importance of nail health and to provide appropriate advice or treatment options to address the habit and its consequences. Other options such as nail separation or injury-related discoloration relate to different nail conditions and are not associated with the habit of biting nails.