Brittle Nails on GLP-1: Review Your Manicure Routine

If your nails start splitting during GLP-1 treatment, review your manicure routine before covering the damage with another set.

Covering damage can add damage

AAD warns that artificial nails over brittle, soft or damaged nails can worsen existing problems. Preparing natural nails for acrylics involves filing the surface, which makes them thinner. Product chemicals can also irritate skin. [2]

Tell your technician that the nails are splitting before choosing a service. Ask what preparation and removal it requires. A longer-looking nail is not evidence that the nail underneath has recovered.

If you usually choose gel

AAD says gel manicures can cause brittleness, peeling and cracking. It suggests considering traditional polish when nail problems recur, avoiding picking off gel, and having a manicurist remove it. Between polishes, it recommends moisturizer such as petroleum jelly on nails and cuticles several times daily. [3]

Record when each manicure was applied and removed and when splitting began. Bring those dates to an assessment rather than assuming that either the medicine or the polish explains everything.

Ask to leave cuticles intact

AAD recommends skipping cuticle trimming: cuticles help protect nails and surrounding skin from infection. It also advises reserving artificial nails for special occasions to reduce repeated exposure to the procedures. [2]

When to get an assessment

AAD recommends a dermatologist for unusual nail changes or persistent nail problems. A break from polish may be part of care, but the guidance does not promise a recovery date for someone taking a GLP-1. [3]

Its GLP-1 guidance also recommends moisturizing cuticles and discussing side effects that do not improve with a dermatologist. That visit can help distinguish medication-related symptoms from another condition. [1]

If you are considering a supplement instead, read our biotin and blood-test guide before adding it to your routine.

This article provides general education, not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Medication information refers to US sources. Discuss medication, nutrition and cosmetic treatment decisions with qualified clinicians.

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