Nail Changes

In addition to that excellent advice, my chemo nurse suggested using Tea Tree oil on the nails several times a day. I also stocked up on surgical-type gloves and went through boxes of them, which I used for the computer, preparing food, or any time I had to use my hands. They not only protect your nails, but also your skin, which can become extremely sensitive. Be sure to change them often and dry your hands thoroughly to prevent moisture from accumulating.

My personal choice was to remove my acrylic nails as soon as I learned I'd be having chemo, and refrained from using any nail polish until they fully recovered several months later.


Sometimes chemotherapy causes nails to change color, become brittle, grooved, lifted, or sensitive. These changes are temporary and there are some things you can do to help.

Start by keeping your nails trimmed and short to help with breakage. Wear gloves while washing dishes and anytime your hands are in water. This will help prevent fungal infections.

For getting a manicure/pedicure: Do not buff away any dark spots or streaks, they may run deep into the nail or may be on the nail bed where you cannot reach them. Use an oily remover to take off any nail polish instead of a drying one. Oily nail polish remover can usually be found in health food stores.

Also, always alert your doctor if you notice signs of inflammation or infection, such as dark or lifted nail beds.

For more tips on nail care you can check out: Look Good Feel Better at http://lookgoodfeelbetter.org/beauty-guide/nail-care