Caleb Foster
Chemotherapy can have a number of side effects on your nails, including dryness, brittleness, discolouration, and in some cases, nail loss. Many people choose to get manicures or pedicures to improve the appearance of their nails during chemotherapy. However, there is conflicting advice on whether nail varnish is safe to use during chemotherapy, as it can dry out nails. Some sources recommend using nail varnish with silicium or calcium to strengthen nails. Others suggest using a nail moisturiser or strengthener instead of nail varnish. Artificial nails should be avoided, as they can trap bacteria and cause infections. If you do choose to get a manicure, it is important to ensure that the nail technician's hygiene standards are up to scratch. There is also concern over the safety of gel manicures, as the UV lights used to dry gel nail polish can cause aging and skin cancer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail Varnish | It is recommended to use nail varnish to protect nails from light exposure during chemotherapy. Use a strengthening opaque nail varnish (silicium or calcium) and avoid pearly colours. Use an acetone-free nail polish remover. |
| Artificial Nails | Avoid fake nails as they can cause bacterial infections and damage your nails. |
| Nail Care | Cut nails short to reduce the risk of breaking. Avoid cutting your cuticles and push them back gently. Keep your hands and feet moisturised and massaged. |
| UV Nail Lights | Overexposure to UV light from UV nail lights can lead to eye and skin damage or skin cancer. |
| UV Protection | Use sunscreen or anti-UV gloves to protect your skin from UV radiation during gel manicures. |
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What You'll Learn
- Nail varnish is recommended during chemotherapy to protect nails from light exposure
- Gel manicures use UV light, which can lead to skin damage and skin cancer
- Chemotherapy weakens the immune system, so professional manicures may cause infection
- Artificial nails and adhesives can damage nails and cause bacterial infections
- Nails become brittle and fragile during chemotherapy, so they should be kept short
Nail varnish is recommended during chemotherapy to protect nails from light exposure
Chemotherapy can cause nails to become brittle, ridged, and split, leading to nail loss in some cases. The skin around the nails also becomes dry and cuticles are damaged. To protect the nails during chemotherapy, it is recommended to use nail varnish to shield the nails from light exposure, particularly UV light.
Research from the State University of New York shows that chemotherapy increases the sensitivity of nails to UV light, and nail damage worsens with sunlight exposure. Thus, applying nail varnish can act as a protective barrier. It is suggested to use a strengthening opaque nail varnish with silicium or calcium, which can be found in anti-UV or dark-coloured polishes. These polishes are recommended over bright colours as they provide better protection from UV light.
To apply, start with a base coat of clear nail varnish with silicium to strengthen the nail. Then, add two coats of dark or anti-UV nail varnish, avoiding pearly colours. Finish with a top coat of clear nail varnish with silicium. When removing nail varnish, use an acetone-free nail polish remover to minimise dryness and prevent further weakening of the nails. Only remove and reapply nail varnish if it is chipped and exposing the nail.
It is important to note that there is conflicting advice regarding the use of nail varnish during chemotherapy. Some sources suggest that nail polish can dry out nails, so a nail moisturiser or strengthener may be preferred if nails are already dry or falling off. Additionally, some chemo nurses request that dark polish be removed to monitor the nails for any signs of inflammation, pain, or infection. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your medical care team and follow their specific recommendations.
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Gel manicures use UV light, which can lead to skin damage and skin cancer
While there is no explicit prohibition against getting gel nails during chemotherapy, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, maintaining nail hygiene and health is crucial during chemotherapy as nails can become brittle, ridged, and split, and nail loss can occur. Chemotherapy can also cause pigmentation, discolouration, and cuticle damage. Therefore, it is recommended to keep nails short and avoid cutting the cuticles, instead gently pushing them back.
Now, gel manicures use ultraviolet (UV) light to dry and harden the nail polish, and this UV exposure is a concern when it comes to gel manicures. UV rays, specifically UVA rays, are known to cause skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer. A study published in Nature Communications in 2023 exposed human and animal skin cells to UV light from nail dryers, and found that 20 to 30% of the cells died after 20 minutes, with three such sessions resulting in 60 to 70% cell death. This UV exposure also caused DNA damage and mutations, which can potentially lead to skin cancer.
Additionally, a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reviewed two cases of women who developed non-melanoma skin cancers on their hands, and both women reported previous exposure to UV nail lights. While these cases do not establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship, they raise concerns about the potential risks of UV nail lights. It is important to note that the full impact of gel manicures on cancer risk may not be known for decades as it can take a long time for skin cancer to develop.
To mitigate the risks associated with UV exposure during gel manicures, some precautions can be taken. One option is to use anti-UV gloves, which cover the hands and fingers while leaving the nails exposed. Applying sunscreen to the hands and fingers before using a UV nail lamp is also recommended, with suggestions including the use of SPF 15 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen. However, the effectiveness of sunscreen in blocking intense UVA rays from some lamps is uncertain.
In conclusion, while gel manicures may be appealing for their durability and shine, the potential risks associated with UV exposure should be carefully considered, especially for individuals undergoing chemotherapy who may already be experiencing nail-related side effects.
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Chemotherapy weakens the immune system, so professional manicures may cause infection
Chemotherapy can have several side effects on your nails, including dryness, brittleness, discolouration, and in some cases, nail loss. While nail care during this time is important, it is also crucial to be cautious about potential infections. Since chemotherapy weakens the immune system, it is essential to be vigilant about hygiene, especially when considering professional manicures and pedicures.
Professional nail salons can sometimes harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. If you wish to continue with professional manicures, ensure that the nail technician maintains high standards of hygiene. Alternatively, you can bring your own sanitised instruments to minimise the risk of infection. It is also recommended to avoid artificial nails or fake nails, as they can trap bacteria and cause infections. The adhesives used for artificial nails may also contain chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions, such as swelling or inflammation.
To protect your nails during chemotherapy, consider applying nail varnish. Choose strengthening nail varnishes with ingredients like silicium or calcium, and avoid those containing formaldehyde and rosin. Look for nail varnishes with anti-UVA and UVB filters to shield your nails from light exposure during chemotherapy. Remember to use an acetone-free nail polish remover to minimise nail damage and dryness.
Additionally, keeping your nails short can reduce the risk of breakage. Instead of using scissors or nail clippers, opt for a soft nail file if your nails are brittle or weak. Avoid cutting your cuticles and gently push them back instead. Moisturising your hands and feet daily with moisturisers or oils can also help nourish your nails and the surrounding skin.
While gel manicures may be appealing due to their longevity and smudge-proof nature, concerns have been raised about the ultraviolet (UV) lights used to dry the nail polish. These lights emit UVA rays, which are linked to premature skin ageing and skin cancer. If you choose to get a gel manicure, consider using anti-UV gloves or applying sunscreen to your hands and fingers to protect yourself from UV radiation.
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Artificial nails and adhesives can damage nails and cause bacterial infections
Chemotherapy can cause nails to become brittle, ridged, and split, and sometimes lead to pigmentation, discolouration, or nail loss. The skin around the nails becomes dry and cuticles are damaged. To reduce the risk of breaking, nails should be kept short and filed with a soft nail file.
Additionally, the chemicals in the products used to apply artificial nails can irritate the skin around the nails and increase the risk of allergic reactions, such as swelling or inflammation. Cuticle abrasion can occur when cuticles are cut or too dry, providing an entry point for bacteria and other germs to cause infections.
To reduce the risk of infection and damage when using artificial nails, it is recommended to choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails as they are more flexible and less likely to cause nail cracking. LED lamps are preferable to UV lamps as they emit lower levels of UV radiation and cure more quickly, reducing UV exposure. It is also important to skip cuticle trimming as cuticles protect the nails and surrounding skin from infection.
During chemotherapy, it is important to protect the nails and avoid exposure to light. This can be achieved by applying nail varnish, preferably a strengthening opaque nail varnish with silicium or calcium. It is recommended to continue with a nail care routine for at least 3 months after treatment, and nails typically grow out normally again within 6 months.
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Nails become brittle and fragile during chemotherapy, so they should be kept short
Chemotherapy can have adverse effects on your nails, causing them to become brittle, fragile, and susceptible to breakage. To mitigate these issues, it is recommended to keep your nails short during chemotherapy. Here are some detailed instructions to help you maintain your nail health:
Firstly, understand why nails become brittle during chemotherapy. The treatment can cause your nails to become dry and fragile, leading to increased brittleness and breakage. Additionally, the skin around your nails can become dry, and your cuticles may be damaged. These issues can be cosmetically unappealing and may cause discomfort.
To address these concerns, keeping your nails short is advisable. Short nails are easier to manage, and any problems will be less noticeable. Trimming your nails also reduces the risk of breakage, which is especially important given their increased fragility during chemotherapy. Use a soft nail file to gently shape your nails instead of scissors or nail clippers, which can be harsh and cause accidental cuts.
It is also essential to prioritize nail and cuticle care. Avoid cutting your cuticles; instead, gently push them back using a cuticle remover cream to prevent any accidental cuts or abrasions. Moisturize and massage your hands and feet daily with rich moisturizers or oils, paying extra attention to your cuticles and nails. This will help combat dryness and improve overall nail health.
Additionally, be cautious when using nail polish and artificial nails. While nail polish can give your nails a lift cosmetically, it is essential to allow your nails to breathe and recover between applications. Avoid artificial nails, as the adhesives and removal processes can further damage your already fragile nails. If you choose to use nail polish, opt for strengthening and opaque nail varnishes with silicium or calcium. Always use an acetone-free nail polish remover to minimize dryness.
Finally, consider cold therapy and protective measures. Some sources suggest that icing your nails or using frozen gloves during chemotherapy infusions may help prevent nail problems. Additionally, wear gloves when doing household chores or gardening to protect your nails and reduce the risk of infection.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not recommended to have gel nails during chemotherapy. The UV lights used to cure gel nail polish emit UVA rays, which have been linked to premature skin ageing and skin cancer.
You can apply regular nail polish, but only after applying a base coat of clear nail varnish with silicium to strengthen your nails. You should also wear dark or anti-UV nail varnish to prevent your nails from being exposed to light during treatment. Make sure to use an acetone-free nail polish remover and only remove and reapply nail varnish if it is chipped.
Your nails will likely become brittle, ridged, and split during chemotherapy, and they may even fall off. To reduce the risk of breaking, keep your nails short and avoid cutting your cuticles. Instead, gently push them back. It is also important to moisturise and massage your hands and feet daily, paying particular attention to your cuticles and nails.
