Nails and Alopecia: What you need to know!

When you’re dealing with alopecia, it’s natural to put all your attention on your hair. But here’s something most people never think about: YOUR NAILS!

In fact, for some people with alopecia , especially alopecia areata, nail changes show up before they even notice hair loss. It’s one of those small, but important details that can give you a deeper understanding of what’s happening in your body.

Let’s break it down in a simple, non-medical jargon way.

Why Your Nails Matter More Than You Think

Hair and nails are made from the same stuff: keratin. They also react to stress, inflammation, autoimmune activity, and nutrient deficiencies in surprisingly similar ways. So when the immune system is a bit overexcited and targeting hair follicles, your nail growth can get caught in the crossfire.

Research suggests that around 10–20% of people with alopecia areata experience nail changes. That’s not rare, it’s actually very normal.

Common Nail Changes Linked to Alopecia

Here are the ones people see most often:

1. Nail Pitting

Little dents across the nail surface, almost like someone tapped the nail with a pin.
This is classic in alopecia areata and other autoimmune conditions.

2. Beau’s Lines

Horizontal grooves that look like the nail paused mid-growth (because it did).
They often show up after a flare-up, a big stress period, or illness.

3. Trachyonychia (“Sandpaper Nails”)

Rough, thin, brittle nails that look dull or uneven.
Common in kids and adults with autoimmune alopecia.

4. Brittle or Peeling Nails

Sometimes from inflammation, sometimes from nutrient gaps, and sometimes from over-polishing or harsh nail products.

5. Redness or Thick Skin Around the Nail

A sign of ongoing inflammation.

None of these make you “unhealthy.” They’re simply markers that your body is navigating something.

What Actually Causes These Nail Changes?

Autoimmune Activity

If the immune system targets hair follicles, it can target the nail matrix too (the area responsible for new nail growth).

Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can slow or alter the way nails form.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Low levels of iron, zinc, vitamin D, protein, or biotin can weaken both hair and nails.

Stress

Physical or emotional stress causes a temporary “pause” in growth, which is why you sometimes see lines or thinning.

How to Support Healthier Nails When You Have Alopecia

Here’s 5 things that you can do to help improve you’re nail health.

1. Prioritise Nutrition That Supports Growth

Think high protein meals, iron-rich foods, zinc sources, and omega-3s.
Your hair and nails both rely on these to grow strong.

2. Consider Biotin (If It Makes Sense for You)

It may help with brittleness. You can purchase this here

3. Keep Nails Short and Gently Protected

Lower risk of snagging, peeling, or painful splitting.

4. Avoid Harsh Nail Products

Minimise acetone, acrylics, and anything that dries or thins the nail.

5. Hydrate the Nail Area

A simple cuticle oil or nourishing hand cream can make a noticeable difference.

Check in With a Dermatologist If Needed

Especially if you see:

• Severe nail pain
• Sudden or dramatic changes
• Nails lifting from the nail bed

These symptoms don’t necessarily mean anything serious is going on — but they’re worth a professional look, especially if they appear alongside a hair loss flare.

A Quick Note on Confidence and Identity

Your nails are always on display. Typing, holding a cup, paying at a shop, and it’s normal to feel self-conscious if they look different. If you feel that way, you’re not alone. These changes don’t make you any less healthy, attractive, or capable. They’re just part of the bigger autoimmune picture.

Small acts of care like a gentle nail routine, proper nutrition and understanding what’s going on can help you feel more in control again.

Final Thoughts

Nail changes and alopecia go hand in hand for many people, but they’re often overlooked. By paying attention to your nails, you can get early hints of inflammation, stress, or nutrient deficiencies, all of which matter for your hair too.

You don’t need to panic about every line or dent. Just stay aware, stay curious, and take care of your body in simple, sustainable ways. And if something doesn’t feel right, a dermatologist can help guide the next steps.