Cambridge University Clinical Research

The Only Treatment Clinically Proven to Profoundly Reduce Chemotherapy Nail Damage. 

In a published 2018 clinical trial, Polybalm was shown to prevent and significantly reduce nail damage caused by chemotherapy.

Clinical Trial Results

Key Findings from Cambridge University Study

Published research demonstrates Polybalm's effectiveness in preventing and treating chemotherapy-
induced nail damage with remarkable results.

Signification Nail Protection

Patients using Polybalm experienced significant improvement, less nail breakage, discoloration, and pain than those using the placebo.

97% Prevention of Nail Damage

97% of Polybalm users experienced NO nail damage during chemo, while >50% of placebo users experienced significant nail damage & deterioration.

No Adverse Effects

NO adverse side effects were reported from Polybalm use throughout the entire clinical trial.

Study Methodology

Rigorous Clinical Trial Design

Our study followed the highest standards of clinical research to ensure reliable,
unbiased results that healthcare professionals can trust.

Trial Design

The study participants were men and women who were receiving chemotherapy for breast or prostate cancer at one of Cambridge University’s affiliated Hospitals (Bedford) over a 2-year recruitment period. The participants were randomized (50:50) to apply either a simple petroleum based moisturizing balm to their nail bed three times a day or the investigational balm now known as Polybalm.

Location

Cambridge University (Bedford Hospital)

Duration

2-year recruitment period

Participants

Breast & prostate cancer patients

Design

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
DLQQ

Dermatology Life Quality Questionnaire

Patient-reported nail health and quality of life impact
LSS

Linear Severity Scale

Daily activities and quality of life assessment
NPSI

Nail Psoriasis Index

Physician assessment of physical nail condition
Photo Review

Independent Medical Review

3 independent doctors verified results through nail photographs

Trial outcomes measurements: The health of the nails were measured by 4 independent tools and none of the patients, doctors, research team or statistician knew which balm was assigned to which participant.

Patients recorded their own nail health with the validated Dermatology Life Quality questionnaire (DLQQ) plus a simple linear severity scale (LSS) that emphasized how the nail damage affected their daily activities and quality of life.

Physicians recorded the physical condition of the nails using the validated Nail Psoriasis Index (NPSI) plus another simple linear severity scale (LSS). As well as directly scoring nail damage, photographs of the nails were sent to 3 doctors from other departments and hospitals for further independent verification.

Results

In all but 1 of the patients in the Polybalm® cohort, there was virtually no nail damage compared to more than half suffering significant damage and distress in the placebo group. In fact, the average patient reported nail related quality hardly changed in the Polybalm® group and the linear scale actually improved between the start and end of the chemotherapy. There were no reported allergies or adverse events related to either creams. The patients in the Polybalm® group who still had some nail changes also suffered from other severe chemotherapy complications including neutropenic sepsis, diarrhea and peripheral neuropathy. The more complete data is reported in the adjacent table.

Assessment Tools
Placebo (Scores)*
Polybalm (Scores)*
Difference (CI)
Power

DLQQ+

-6.10

-0.034

6.06 CI 4.17-7.95

p< 0.00001

LSS*

-64.1

+2.63

66.72 CI 52.97-80.47

p< 0.00001

NPSI

-5.71

0.00

5.71 CI 4.29-7.12

p< 0.00001

LSS

-66.1

-5.79

60.3 CI 45.29-75.32

p< 0.00001

*Change from base line to end of study. +Patients reported outcomes.

Polyblam vs. Placebo results

Polybalm Group

Nail Damage 97% had virtually no damage

Quality of Life No Negative Impact During Trial

Linear Severity Scale Nail Health improved by +2.63

Placebo Group

Nail Damage >56% had Significant Damage

Quality of Life Significantly Decreased During Trial

Linear Severity Scale Nail Health declined by -64.1

The polyphenol rich essential oils and plant-based waxes in this nail bed balm profoundly reduced chemotherapy related nail damage and improved nail related quality of life compared to a plain petroleum-based balm. The 180-fold improvement in nail related quality of life will be welcomed by patients suffering this unwelcome toxicity which would otherwise significantly affect up to half of people receiving chemotherapy. The precise mode of action of this investigational balm would require further evaluation to elucidate and it would be interesting to investigate whether combination with nail bed cooling could further reduce the risk of this distressing toxicity in all patients.

The Natural Power of Polybalm's Unique Formula

Polybalm is carefully formulated using 100% natural plant-based ingredients, chosen for their protective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-fungal and nourishing properties. This unique botanicals blend helps maintain nail strength and health during your nails most challenging times, without any harsh chemicals or synthetic additives.

Organic Cocoa Seed Butter

Beeswax

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Eucalyptus Leaf

Lavender Flower

Unrefined Shea Butter

Organic Cocoa Seed Butter

Wintegreen Leaf

How to Maintain Strong & Healthy Nails

How to Maintain Strong & Healthy Nails

Understanding Chemo-Induced Nail Damage

Learn how cancer treatments affect nail health and what changes to expect

Clinically Proven Solution: The Polybalm® Difference

Discover the 100% natural, doctor-recommended balm tested to protect fragile nails

How to Use Polybalm® for Maximum Benefit

Simple, effective steps to support nail health before, during, and after treatment

Essential Nail Care Tips During Cancer Therapy

Practical advice on hygiene, diet, and protection to minimize nail damage