Fingernail fetish

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A fingernail fetish (could also be called onychophilia) is a type of sexual fetish where one feels sexual attraction towards people that have long and/or painted nails. Although not as common as other sexual fetishes, it is still quite popular, especially with men. As with all fetishes, preferences vary: some like natural nails only, while others have no problem with artificial ones. Furthermore, some, although liking long nails, find them repulsive after a certain point; others consider "the longer the better". The curvature of the nails is also a determining factor, as well as possible designs on the nails. Lastly, some may ask of their sexual partners to scratch or massage them, in order to achieve sexual arousement.

Throughout the ages

During the 20th century, lots of women started treating their nails, manicuring them, letting them long or even wearing artificial ones. Thus, this type of fetish was given room to exist, or perhaps merely express itself. However, since the oldest evidence of manicure is 5000 years old, this fetish may well be that old as well.

Biological relation

Under a biological scope, the ability for one to grow healthy, strong nails could indicate that one has a healthy organism, able to support them. Under the darwinian theory, this would allow one to have healthier descendants, which would make one appeal more to members of the opposite sex. However, this is just a speculation, and has not been scientifically proven. In fact, little to no research has been done to examine the effect of long nails on human sexuality.

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