Nail Extensions for Nail Biters

Extensions for nail biters are a version of our nail extension service planned specifically for nails that have been bitten short and uneven. The aim isn't just to make nails look longer: covering the bitten nail gives your hands a neat, cared-for look and lets your natural nail grow out protected underneath. We do this often at Renew & Revive Beauty on Abide-i Hürriyet Avenue in Şişli, a short trip from Mecidiyeköy and Nişantaşı.

How Is It Different from Regular Extensions?

A bitten nail usually has almost no free edge, uneven sides and worn-down cuticles. So we plan it a little differently from standard nail extensions:

• We usually start with a short, natural length and increase it gradually as the nail bed grows.
• Very short nails give the extension less to hold on to, so prep and thickness need extra care.
• Damaged cuticles are treated gently; if there are open cuts, we wait for them to heal.

The Process

1. Assessment: how short the nails are, the state of the skin around them and what you would like.
2. Gentle prep: cuticles are softened, uneven edges lightly tidied and the surface cleansed.
3. Extension: gel or a similar method gives the nail a natural-looking length and shape. See types of nail extensions for how the methods compare.
4. Finish: nude, clear or colour, followed by cuticle oil.

An appointment takes around 60-90 minutes.

Will It Help Me Stop Biting?

For many of our clients, yes. A hard, smooth surface is much harder to bite, and seeing neat nails is a strong reason not to go back to the habit. Results vary from person to person, though. If your nail biting is linked to stress or anxiety and feels hard to control, support from a doctor or therapist can help alongside. We go into more detail in Nail Biting? How Extensions Can Help.

Infills and the Grow-Out Phase

Your natural nail keeps growing under the extension, so we recommend an infill every 3-4 weeks. At each visit we check how your nails are growing and adjust length and shape if needed. Once your own nails have reached a good length, we can remove the extensions gently (see nail removal) and you can move on to a manicure and gel polish.

At Home

• If an extension lifts or cracks, don't bite or pull it - come in as soon as you can.
• Oil your cuticles daily; hydrated skin gets fewer hangnails, which means less temptation to pick.
• Notice the moments you reach for your nails; a ring to fiddle with or a small stress ball can help.

Sore Skin, Fungus or Infection

Nail biting can lead to cuts and infection around the nail. If there is redness, swelling, discharge or pain, we won't apply extensions - please see a dermatologist first, and we will book you in once it has healed.

To book extensions for bitten nails in Şişli, message us on WhatsApp or call. At your first visit we will look at your nails and plan the next few months together.