Onycophagy (nail biting)

Sign: Damaged nails may appear ridged, cracked or broken.

Cause: This condition is often the result of nervous habits, including picking at, playing with, or stroking the nails. In both adults and children, nail biting is a common habit. Excessive nail-biting results in very weak nails and, in extreme cases, damaged fingers caused by chewing the nail down to the quick — the sensitive skin beneath the nail.

Treatment: There is no guaranteed cure for nail-biting. Frequent manicures help, especially when nails are filed very short. Find something that occupies your hands when they are idle — a creative hobby such as building models, painting, knitting or sewing.

Onycholysis (flaking nails):

Sign: The top layers of nails may separate and start to flake off if they are exposed to too much soap or detergent and water.

Cause: A trauma or thyroid disorder, anaemia or psoriasis may also be the cause.

Treatment: Carefully trim away the separated nail. If flaking occurs, wear plastic gloves when washing dishes or clothes. And massage nail cream into the nail base every day.