Menopause & Your Nails: What's Really Going On (And How to Fix It)

If your nails have suddenly become weak, peeling, brittle or just refuse to grow then menopause may be the hidden culprit. Many women experience unexpected nail issues before, during and after menopause even if they have never had problems before. Let’s dive into why this happens and more importantly how you can care for your nails and restore their strength.

Why Menopause Affects Your Nails

As oestrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause so does the body’s natural ability to hold onto moisture, absorb nutrients and keep your nails growing steadily.

Here is What's Happening:

• Loss of moisture - Less oestrogen means drier nails leading to splitting and peeling.

• Slower nail growth - Nails may take longer to grow out or recover from damage.

• Nutrient absorption changes - Even with a good diet, your body may struggle to absorb nail boosting vitamins like biotin, calcium and magnesium.

• Ridges appear - Vertical ridges often become more noticeable a sign of reduced cell turnover and dehydration.

• Weaker nail matrix - The root of the nail (called the matrix) may not get enough blood flow or nutrients making nails thin and bendy.

Common Nail Symptoms in Menopause

• Nails that peel in layers

• Brittle edges that snap or tear

• Vertical ridges

• Nails that feel soft or thin

• Slower growth and shorter nail beds

• Sensitivity to polish or removers

Tips for Menopausal Nail Care

1. Start with Strength from Within

• Consider a biotin supplement (2.5mg daily is often recommended).

• Add more omega-3s, calcium, and magnesium to your diet.

• Stay hydrated

2. Nourish Daily

• Use a cuticle oil twice a day with jojoba and vitamin E are ideal.

• Apply a rich hand cream before bed (try cotton gloves overnight for a deeper treatment!).

3. Choose Treatments that Help Repair, Not just Cover

• The IBX Nail Repair Treatment is a game changer for menopausal nails which repairs damage from the inside out.

• Avoid nail hardeners with formaldehyde which can worsen brittleness long term.

4. Be Kind to Your Nails

• Always wear gloves for washing up, gardening or cleaning.

• Use the correct grit nail file for natural nails, a 240 grit.

• Avoid peeling gel polish off

• Don't buff over your ridges, you will risk weakening them even more causing vertical splits.

• Don't use nails as tools.

Final Thought

Remember: Your nails are not "just getting old" they are responding to hormonal changes like the rest of your body. With the right care and expert support they can become stronger, healthier and more beautiful than ever.

Treat your nails with kindness and they will thank you for it.