Picking or Biting
Nail picking is a common habit many people fall into when feeling anxious or stressed. Unfortunately, this habit can cause damage to the nails, which leads to vertical nail splits. When someone picks their nails, they pull them away from the nail bed. This can cause the nails to become thin and weak, which makes them more susceptible to splitting.
The presence of medical conditions that cause poor circulation or decreased sensation in your fingers can make an individual more likely to develop vertical nail splits from picking at the nails. Similarly, individuals who bite their nails are putting pressure on them that can make them weak and brittle.
There are a few things to prevent vertical nail splits from happening. It is crucial to avoid biting nails or picking at them when one is feeling anxious or stressed. If you find yourself doing this, try keeping the hands busy with another activity, such as fidgeting with a stress ball or playing with putty. Women who bite or pick their nails can also try painting them with a bitter-tasting polish to help dissuade them from nibbling on them.
