Many individuals undergoing chemotherapy wonder about the safety of wearing nail polish. This article explores the effects of treatment on nails and provides guidance for making informed decisions about nail care.
Chemotherapy’s Impact on Nails
Chemotherapy treatments affect fingernails and toenails due to their impact on rapidly dividing cells, including those responsible for nail growth. Patients may experience nails becoming thin and brittle, leading to easier breakage or splitting. Discoloration is also common, with nails potentially turning black, brown, blue, green, or yellow.
Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, can form across the nails, reflecting interruptions in nail growth during treatment cycles. The nail bed may become dry, and cuticles can fray, leading to discomfort. In some cases, nails might lift from the nail bed (onycholysis) or grow more slowly than usual. These nail changes vary depending on the specific chemotherapy drugs used, such as taxanes, and individual patient responses.
Potential Issues with Nail Polish During Chemo
Wearing nail polish during chemotherapy can present challenges. A primary concern is that polish can mask underlying nail changes, such as discoloration, thinning, or lifting, making it difficult for healthcare providers to monitor nail health. Early detection of these changes is important for managing side effects and preventing complications.
Nail polish can also trap moisture against the nail bed, creating an environment conducive to fungal or bacterial growth, especially when the immune system is weakened by chemotherapy. Chemicals in some polishes can further exacerbate nail sensitivity and dryness, which are common side effects of treatment. This can lead to increased pain or discomfort and potentially compromise nail integrity, increasing the risk of infection.
Nail Polish Types and Considerations
Gel polish and acrylic nails are generally not recommended. These artificial nails can completely obscure the natural nail, preventing observation of changes or potential infections.
The application and removal processes for gel and acrylic nails often involve harsh chemicals and can cause damage or trauma to already fragile nails. UV light, sometimes used to cure gel polish, may also increase nail sensitivity, which can be heightened during chemotherapy.
For regular nail polish, choose “3-free” or “5-free” options, which are formulated without certain potentially irritating chemicals such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), formaldehyde, toluene, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. When removing polish, using an acetone-free remover is gentler on the nails and helps prevent further drying.
Safe Nail Care Practices During Chemotherapy
Keeping fingernails and toenails short and clean can help prevent breakage and reduce the risk of infection. Regular moisturizing of both the nails and cuticles with a fragrance-free cream or oil can combat dryness and brittleness.
Wearing gloves for household chores, such as washing dishes or gardening, protects nails from excessive moisture and potential trauma. Avoid cutting cuticles; instead, gently push them back.
Any changes in nail appearance or signs of infection, including redness, swelling, pain, or pus, should be reported promptly to a healthcare provider for evaluation. Consulting with the oncology team for personalized advice on nail care throughout treatment is recommended.