We’ve been asked several times by publications that serve nailcare professionals about manicure tips for Raynaud’s sufferers. While we don’t consider our organization to be experts on nailcare, we have been able to offer some advice to the nailcare community on the subject. And since we also get nail related inquiries from fellow Frosties, we wanted to share our response to some of the questions asked by nailcare professionals:
What nail issues are associated with Raynaud’s?
While there’s limited information on the subject, it is documented that the reduced blood flow to a Raynaud’s patients’ nails can cause them to become brittle with longitudinal ridges. We’ve also read that the reduced blood flow from Raynaud’s can potentially slow nail growth.
While it’s logical that in severe cases the lack of oxygen to the fingertips could potentially result in nail issues, it appears these problems are not just experienced by those with the most severe secondary form of Raynaud’s. Unfortunately research hasn’t offered helpful suggestions on how we should best deal with these nail concerns.
Is there any reason why a person with Raynaud’s should not get a manicure?
One major issue for someone with Raynaud’s as it relates to manicures or pedicures is the presence of digital ulcers. While we doubt someone with painful finger or toe ulcers would request these services, it wouldn’t hurt for a professional in a salon to look for and be aware of these issues.
Sufferers with open or infected digital ulcers should avoid most of the process and the polish, but nearly all could benefit from the massage and the paraffin wax soaking, as both work to stimulate circulation and offer other therapeutic benefits. In fact, the relaxation experience associated with these features of a manicure or pedicure will likely help a sufferer reduce their stress levels, which is a positive consideration.
What are some do’s and don’ts nail techs should know about performing nail services on someone with Raynaud’s?
For those sufferers with sensitive skin resulting from severe Raynaud’s attacks, the process of cutting their nails or cuticles could be painful. However, since most sufferers have the mild primary form, in general they should be fine with the standard manicure.
Other things to be attuned to:
- Exposure to toxins can trigger Raynaud’s in some cases, so it’s best to use brands that eliminate these ingredients. Better for the professionals, too!
- Oil acts as a humectant that can help trap more heat in the skin, so use of oils could be beneficial.
- As UV and LED lights tend to dry the skin, their use should be optional or minimized.
- Moisturizers with ingredients that can help promote circulation are a plus – such as L’arginine and magnesium (e.g., creams we’ve tested such as Nutrasal). Keeping the skin moisturized can help avoid cracked skin which can be tender and painful during or for short periods after attacks.
Below are links to our other posts and interviews related to manicure tips for Raynaud’s sufferers:
Cold Spell: Identifying Raynaud’s Syndrome
Scratch Magazine Article on Raynaud’s and Nail Care
Raynaud’s Risk From Solvent Use By Lab Technicians
We welcome any tips or techniques that have worked for you in promoting healthy nails. Write to info@raynauds.org, post them on our Facebook page or share them with us on Instagram, Twitter or Threads.
