We’ve all seen it. You’re in a café, a bus, or even mid-scroll through a Web Story—and there they are: someone casually digging for gold, right out in public. It’s one of those things that makes us cringe, look away, maybe even laugh awkwardly. But here’s the real question: why do people still pick their noses in public, even in 2025?
Turns out, it’s more common (and more complex) than you might think. Below are 10 surprising reasons this awkward habit just won’t go away—and five of them might actually surprise you.
Unconscious Habit
Many people do it without even realizing it. Nose picking can become such an automatic action that the person doesn’t notice it happening—especially when deep in thought or distracted. It’s like tapping a pen or biting nails. Their mind zones out, but the fingers don’t.
Stress or Anxiety
Ever notice someone picking their nose during an intense phone call or while waiting nervously? It might not be about the nose at all. For some, this action becomes a subtle way to self-soothe—similar to rubbing hands or tugging hair.
Physical Irritation
Dry air, allergies, or leftover particles from pollution can all cause a little nose discomfort. Without tissues at hand, some just react—giving in to the urge to scratch, clear, or relieve the itch with a quick finger motion.
Lack of Social Awareness
Believe it or not, some people simply forget where they are. Whether lost in a podcast or their thoughts, they zone out in public and forget basic social etiquette. The result? A very public moment they might only realize when it’s too late.
Compulsive Behavior (OCD)
There’s even a name for it: Rhinotillexomania—a compulsive need to pick the nose. While rare, this behavior falls under obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) and requires more than just a reminder to “use a tissue.” For some, it’s a genuine mental health struggle.
Childhood Habits That Never Left
Some people simply never grew out of it. Habits formed in childhood often carry into adulthood, especially if no one ever corrected them early on. If someone was never taught it’s “not okay,” they might still think it is.
Cultural or Regional Differences
While nose picking is considered rude in many places, it isn’t taboo everywhere. In some cultures or rural areas, it’s seen as a private grooming habit—no more shameful than fixing your hair or scratching an itch.
Digital Distraction
Ironically, smartphones may be making nose picking worse. When people are deeply engaged in their screens, their awareness of the outside world fades. Combine distraction with a little irritation, and boom—public pick without realizing.
Poor Hygiene Awareness
Not everyone sees nose picking as unhygienic or socially offensive. Especially in areas with limited education about germs and etiquette, people may not understand the risks or social reactions it causes.
They Just Don’t Care
Finally, let’s be honest—some people simply don’t care. They know it’s gross. They know others are watching. But they’re going to do it anyway. Whether it’s defiance, laziness, or “I do what I want” energy, they’re unbothered—and unapologetic.
It’s Funny—Until It’s You
We laugh, we gag, we make memes—but deep down, almost all of us have done it at least once. The real question isn’t why people do it, but why we’re still so fascinated when they do.
So next time you see someone mid-pick in public, don’t just judge—wonder what led them there. It might be more relatable than you think.
