Quit nail biting app
Frequently asked questions
Can Hands Off detect other body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs)?
Yes, the same AI technology detects multiple BFRBs including nose picking, eyelash pulling, eyebrow hair pulling, and ear picking. You can customize which facial zones trigger interventions based on your specific BFRB patterns.
Can I customize the intervention style and sensitivity?
Yes, Hands Off offers multiple intervention options: full-screen overlay, full-screen without camera, or small notification popup. Sensitivity adjusts from high (catches subtle approaches) to low (only clear attempts). Most users start with medium sensitivity.
What if I have sensitive information on my screen?
Hands Off only analyzes your face and hand positions, not your screen content. Plus, since everything is local, there's no risk of screen data leaving your device.
What happens if my internet goes down?
Hands Off continues working normally. Only the subscription verification needs internet, and that has a grace period.
How can I be sure my video isn't being recorded?
You can monitor your device's storage - Hands Off creates no video files on your computer. You can also check your network activity to see that no large video data is being uploaded. The app processes video in real-time memory only.
How do I know if my nail biting or skin picking is a disorder that needs treatment?
Look for physical damage like infections, scarring, or bleeding. Check if you're hiding your hands or avoiding social situations. If you've tried to stop multiple times without success, or spend hours on the behavior, you need help. About 45% of people have multiple BFRBs, so watch for other behaviors too.
What treatments work best for BFRBs like nail biting and hair pulling?
Habit Reversal Training (HRT) has 60-80% success rates - it teaches you to catch yourself and do something else instead. AI-powered apps like Hands Off watch your hands through your webcam and alert you instantly when you start to bite or pick. Most people combine both approaches for best results.
Can BFRBs like nail biting and skin picking be completely cured?
Yes, complete recovery is possible. Most people see major improvements with proper treatment, and many stop entirely. Earlier treatment gives better results. Some need occasional 'tune-ups' during stressful periods, but combining behavioral training with technology assistance gives you the best chance at long-term success.
Are BFRBs genetic or caused by stress and anxiety?
Both. If family members have similar habits, you're more likely to develop them. But stress usually triggers or worsens the behavior during exams, deadlines, or major life changes. You can't change genetics, but you can learn better stress management and catch yourself before the behavior starts.
Will it interfere with normal computer activities?
No, when properly calibrated, Hands Off distinguishes between normal activities and BFRB behaviors. Eating, drinking, applying makeup, or adjusting glasses won't trigger false positives. The AI analyzes duration, hand shape, and movement patterns for accurate detection.
How effective is real-time AI detection compared to traditional methods?
Real-time intervention is significantly more effective than after-the-fact tracking. Unlike bitter polish or manual logging apps, Hands Off provides immediate intervention at the moment habits begin, achieving 70-90% reduction in episodes within the first week for most users.
What happens when I'm away from my computer?
Hands Off only works during computer use since it requires webcam access. However, breaking the habit during your highest-risk period (computer work) often reduces overall nail biting frequency throughout the day.
How do I track progress and maintain motivation?
Hands Off includes comprehensive analytics: daily detection counts, current streak length, weekly trends, and longest streak. You can identify patterns and high-risk periods to maintain motivation, with most users eliminating the habit within 2-4 weeks.
Is webcam monitoring safe and private?
Hands Off processes all video analysis locally on your device using on-device AI models. No video frames or webcam data ever leave your computer. The only network activity is a lightweight authentication check every 5 minutes to verify your subscription.
What is the medical term for nail biting?
The medical term for nail biting is onychophagia, which comes from Greek words meaning "nail eating." This clinical term helps distinguish between casual nail biting and more serious compulsive behaviors.
What causes nail biting disorder?
Nail biting disorder typically stems from psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, perfectionism, and boredom. Environmental triggers, learned behaviors, and neurological habit patterns also contribute to the development of compulsive nail biting.
When does the habit of nail biting become a problem?
The nail biting habit becomes problematic when it causes physical damage, infections, bleeding, or significantly impacts daily life and social interactions. If you cannot stop despite adverse consequences, it may indicate a nail biting disorder.
What are the health risks of chronic nail biting?
Chronic nail biting can lead to infections, dental problems, nail deformities], and permanent damage to nail beds. The behavior also poses risks of bacterial transmission and can impact professional and social opportunities.
Can nail biting disorder be effectively treated?
Yes, it can be treated through various approaches, including behavioral strategies, awareness training, replacement habits, and modern technology solutions like webcam monitoring for real-time intervention.
Is anxious nail biting different from regular nail biting?
Anxious nail biting typically occurs in response to specific stress triggers and tends to be more intense during periods of high anxiety. This type of nail biting often serves as an immediate coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions.
Can ADHD nail biting be treated differently?
ADHD nail biting often responds well to treatments that address both the underlying ADHD symptoms and the nail biting behavior. They might include medication for ADHD, fidget tools, and behavioral interventions designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals.
Is nail biting genetic or learned?
Nail biting has both genetic and environmental components. Research shows that over 30% of people who bite their nails have a family member with the same habit, suggesting genetic influence. However, environmental factors and learned behaviors also play significant roles.
Is nail biting a symptom of anxiety disorders?
Yes, chronic nail biting can be a symptom of various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and OCD. However, not everyone who bites their nails has an anxiety disorder.
Why is nail biting bad for your immune system?
Nail biting is bad for your immune system because it introduces harmful bacteria and viruses directly into your mouth, constantly forcing your body to fight infections. This persistent challenge depletes immune resources and may make you more susceptible to other illnesses.
Does nail biting cause cancer in the mouth?
There is no direct evidence that nail biting causes cancer. However, nail biting can transfer HPV from fingers to mouth, and certain HPV strains are associated with oral cancers. The risk is indirect rather than direct, but it remains a valid health concern.
Can nail biting damage teeth permanently?
Yes, nail biting can damage teeth permanently. It causes enamel erosion, tooth misalignment, root resorption, and jaw problems that may require expensive orthodontic or restorative dental treatment. Damage accumulates over the years and often becomes irreversible without professional intervention.
How long does it take for a nail biting infection in the finger to heal?
A nail biting infection in the finger typically heals within 7-10 days with proper treatment, including antibiotics if bacterial. However, severe infections may take several weeks to resolve completely, and recurrent infections are common among continued nail biters.
How long does it take to stop nail biting?
Most people need 3-4 weeks to break the automatic response, but entirely stopping nail biting habit typically takes 2-3 months of consistent effort. Nails take about 6 months to recover and look healthy again fully.
Does bitter nail polish really work for nail biting?
Yes, bitter nail polish for nail biting works for approximately 60-70% of users when applied consistently. It's most effective when combined with awareness techniques and alternative behaviors, as it addresses the habit's unconscious aspect.
Can hypnosis for nail biting help me quit?
Hypnosis for nail biting can be effective for some people, particularly those whose habit is stress-related. Success rates vary, but many report reduced urges after 3-6 sessions with a qualified hypnotherapist.
What is habit reversal training for nail biting?
Habit reversal training for nail biting is a behavioral therapy technique that helps you recognize the urge to bite and replace it with a competing response, like clenching your fists or sitting on your hands. It's one of the most research-supported methods to stop nail biting.
What type of fidget toy for nail biting is most effective?
The most effective fidget toy for nail biting is one you'll use consistently. Popular options include fidget cubes, stress balls, fidget spinners, and therapy putty. Choose something small enough to carry everywhere.
Are there special gloves for nail biting?
Yes, nail biting gloves are available. They're typically made from cotton or soft fabric and are beneficial for nighttime biting or during activities you bite unconsciously, like watching TV or reading.