Nail Care During Cancer Treatment

Nail Changes

• Color changes
• Darkening of the nail or long dark bands on the nail
• Vertical lines across the nail. These may sometimes indent and create grooves 
• “Splinter hemorrhage” – small areas of bleeding under the nails that appear as black or red lines 
• Nails become brittle and can crack.
• The nail detaches from the skin or nail bed 
• The skin around the nail becomes inflamed and painful.  This can lead to infection.

Nail Care

• Keep nails short and filed for smooth edges. Rough edges can catch on things, pull and cause tearing or injury
• Don’t cut cuticles if they are not frayed. Use cuticle cream to prevent dryness, splitting and hangnails
• Don’t bite nails or cuticles
• Reduce the risk of infection or more injury: 
  • Wear gloves when washing dishes, gardening, or performing other work around the house. You may also want to wear gloves when dressing to avoid catching nails on clothing.
  • Be careful when you cut your nails and cuticles.  Avoid “mechanical cleaning” under the nails.
  • Wash your hands regularly and use mild hand lotion.
• Avoid shoes that squeeze the toes or put pressure on toenails.
• Talk to your health care provider before:
  • Using nail strengtheners 
  • Seeing a manicurist
  • Getting acrylic nails or extensions
  • Having “shellac”, gel, or “hard gel” 

• Fingernails grow about 1/8 inch a month. 
• Toenails grow about 1/24 inch a month.

When to Call:

• If you develop any symptoms of infection:
  • Increased redness or warmth
  • Increased tenderness
  • Drainage and/or odor
• If you have pain that is affecting your daily life.