Fake nails as a strategy to stop picking

I could never quite bring myself to look so glamorous, but one of my clients has had great success wearing fake nails.  They stayed on for two weeks, during which time she said it was nearly impossible to pick her skin.  If you pick or pull your hair unconsciously, fake nails are also a good tool to help become more conscious of it, because the different feeling will give you a surprise each time you touch your skin or hair. For others, keeping nails cut extra short helps prevent picking.

Of course, if you're not picking or pulling, you will need another outlet for the anxious feelings that build up.  Exercise, yoga, breathing techniques, or relaxation or self-hypnosis recordings should help.  Remember, you are gradually training your brain.  It takes persistence.  Look at any progress as a success; do your best not to feel hopeless and discouraged if you slip back into picking or pulling.  Just keep using strategies that are helpful, and if you feel like you need support and expert guidance, look into my coaching programs.

p.s. Have you downloaded my free "Freedom Kit"? It comes with a written and audio report, "Why you pick your skin and how to finally stop," a video on "how to stop skin picking urges in two minutes flat," and my "Live Free" newsletter in your inbox each month. Learn more here.