The habit of nail biting can become so familiar to sufferers that they are unaware they are picking at or biting their nails until they feel pain. Some patients with chronic onychophagy bite their toenails, fingernails, and the skin surrounding their nails until they bleed.
Others bite and pick until they have literally removed an entire nail. This can have a number of psychological effects, including frustration and self-loathing.
Clients who suffer from chronic onychophagy — or severe nail biting — may need not only the attention of a good nail tech, but also an appointment with a professional who can help with behavior modification.