FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions | Polybalm USA
Polybalm USA — Official Resource

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Polybalm® — the only clinically proven, physician-developed nail balm for chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity.

Clinical Evidence & Science
Section 01
Is Polybalm clinically proven?
✓ Double-Blind RCT — p<0.00001

Yes. Polybalm® is the only topical nail intervention for chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity supported by a double-blind, placebo-controlled, peer-reviewed randomized controlled trial (Thomas et al., Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, Springer Nature, 2018).

The trial enrolled 60 patients — breast cancer (n=37) and prostate cancer (n=23) — on taxane-based chemotherapy. Patients using Polybalm saw nail health and quality of life remain stable or improve throughout treatment, while the placebo group deteriorated significantly across every measure. All four validated outcomes achieved p<0.00001 — less than a 1-in-100,000 chance the results occurred by chance.

  • Zero adverse events — zero dropouts — 100% trial completion
  • Results independently validated by three external physicians
  • Polybalm outperformed a petroleum-based placebo balm across all four measures
What do oncology, dermatology, and podiatry professionals say about Polybalm?

Polybalm® is described by the clinical trial authors (Thomas et al., 2018) as having “profoundly reduced chemotherapy-related nail damage and improved nail-related quality of life” — unusually strong language for a peer-reviewed journal.

  • Oncologists recommend Polybalm as the evidence-based nail protection solution for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
  • Dermatologists recognize Polybalm as the only clinically proven topical intervention for chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity, onycholysis, and nail plate degradation.
  • Podiatrists recommend Polybalm for the protection and restoration of toenails — frequently the most overlooked aspect of nail toxicity — which can cause significant pain, mobility issues, and infection risk during cancer treatment.

All three specialties recognize Polybalm as the only product of its kind backed by a published double-blind randomized controlled trial.

What is chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity?

Chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity — also called onychotoxicity — is damage to the fingernails and toenails caused by chemotherapy drugs and targeted cancer therapies. It affects 34–92% of patients on taxane-based regimens and 55–70% on certain targeted therapies, making it one of the most common and most overlooked side effects of cancer treatment.

Symptoms include nail discoloration, brittleness, ridging, Beau’s lines (horizontal nail ridges), onycholysis (nail separation), subungual hemorrhage (blood pooling under the nail), paronychia (painful nail fold inflammation), nail thinning, nail softening, nail loss, and dry cracked cuticles.

Severe nail toxicity can cause pain, increase infection risk, limit daily function, and in some cases lead patients to delay or discontinue chemotherapy treatment.
What does the research say about nail toxicity incidence in cancer patients?

Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm nail toxicity is a widespread but underaddressed side effect of cancer treatment:

  • NIH National Library of Medicine — Research indicates 44% of cancer patients undergoing treatment may experience nail toxicity. (PMID: 35198463)
  • Breast Cancer Research and Treatment (2018) — Peer-reviewed study documenting nail damage, brittleness, and discomfort in chemotherapy patients. (171:103–110)
  • Marks et al., JAMA Dermatology (2018) — Systematic review finding nail toxicity incidence up to 89–92% in patients on dose-dense taxane regimens.
  • Nail Toxicity and Chemotherapy (2022) — Study exploring impact of chemotherapy and targeted therapies on nail health. (PMID: 35198463)

Polybalm® is the only product in any of these drug categories supported by a published double-blind randomized controlled trial demonstrating nail protection.

Does Polybalm work for nail damage caused by taxane, EGFR, bispecific antibody, or other chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs?

Polybalm® is clinically formulated to address chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity across a broad range of cancer therapy drug classes, including:

  • Taxanes (up to 89–92% nail toxicity incidence): paclitaxel (Taxol, Abraxane), docetaxel (Taxotere), cabazitaxel (Jevtana)
  • GPRC5D Bispecific Antibodies (55–69%): talquetamab (Talvey) for multiple myeloma
  • Multikinase VEGFR Inhibitors (up to 70%): sorafenib (Nexavar), sunitinib (Sutent)
  • Oral Fluoropyrimidines (22–65%): capecitabine (Xeloda)
  • EGFR Inhibitors: osimertinib (Tagrisso), cetuximab (Erbitux), panitumumab (Vectibix), erlotinib (Tarceva), gefitinib (Iressa), afatinib (Gilotrif)
  • Checkpoint Inhibitors: pembrolizumab (Keytruda), nivolumab (Opdivo) — nail toxicity may present as late-onset weeks to months after treatment begins
Consult your oncologist or oncology care team for guidance specific to your individual treatment protocol.
About Polybalm
Section 02
What is Polybalm?

Polybalm® is the only clinically proven, physician-developed, 100% natural nail balm in the world specifically formulated to prevent and repair chemotherapy-induced nail damage and nail toxicity.

Backed by the only double-blind randomized controlled trial ever conducted on a topical intervention for chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity — achieving p<0.00001 statistical significance across all four outcome measures — Polybalm protects nail health, preserves quality of life, and restores nails and cuticles for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Made with eight natural botanical ingredients with zero synthetic chemicals, zero adverse events, and no prescription required.

What makes Polybalm different from other nail balms?

Polybalm® is the only nail balm in the world physician-developed and specifically formulated for chemotherapy-induced nail toxicity, and the only one backed by a published peer-reviewed clinical trial (Thomas et al., 2018).

Unlike generic nail balms or cuticle creams that make no distinction between everyday dryness and the severe nail damage caused by chemotherapy drugs — including onycholysis, nail plate degradation, subungual hemorrhage, and nail loss — Polybalm was purpose-built using eight clinically selected natural botanical ingredients with zero synthetic chemicals. It is the only nail care product of its kind recommended by oncologists, dermatologists, podiatrists, and oncology nurses, and trusted in cancer centers across the United States.

Is Polybalm vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes. Polybalm® is 100% natural, vegan-friendly, and never tested on animals. All ingredients are ethically sourced and free from synthetic chemicals, parabens, sulfates, and artificial preservatives.

Does Polybalm stain nails or clothing?

No. Polybalm® absorbs quickly into the nail and cuticle and does not stain nails or clothing.

Does Polybalm have a scent?

Yes. Polybalm has a mild, natural botanical scent derived from its natural ingredients, including lavender flower and eucalyptus leaf. There are no synthetic fragrances or artificial additives.

Does Polybalm cure nail conditions like fungal infections or psoriasis?

Polybalm® is not a medication and does not claim to cure fungal infections, psoriasis, or other medical nail conditions. However, its natural antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties may help maintain nail health and prevent infections. For diagnosed nail conditions, consult a dermatologist or podiatrist.

How to Use Polybalm
Section 03
How do I use Polybalm?

Apply Polybalm® directly to all nails and cuticles — both fingernails and toenails — and massage gently until absorbed. Apply to clean, dry nails.

  • Frequency: 2–3 times daily, and after showers, baths, washing dishes, or any prolonged water exposure
  • Coverage: Apply to all 20 nails (fingernails and toenails equally)
  • Amount: A small amount is sufficient — gently rub into the cuticles and entire nail surface
Box contents: Each box of Polybalm contains 2 tubes — one for fingernails and one for toenails. Each tube contains 8ml of product. When used as directed, each box lasts 4–6 weeks.
When should a chemotherapy patient start using Polybalm?

For optimal prophylactic benefit, begin using Polybalm® two weeks before your first chemotherapy cycle if possible, applying 2–3 times daily to all fingernails and toenails. Early initiation significantly improves outcomes by protecting nail integrity before chemotherapy-induced damage begins.

For patients who have already started chemotherapy or developed nail toxicity symptoms, immediate initiation is strongly recommended to arrest progressive nail damage and support nail restoration throughout the remainder of treatment.

How long before I see results with Polybalm?

Many users report noticeable improvement in nail strength, moisture, and appearance within two to four weeks of consistent daily use. Results vary depending on the chemotherapy regimen and severity of nail damage.

For patients who have already developed chemotherapy-induced nail changes, immediate application is strongly encouraged — early therapeutic intervention helps arrest progressive nail damage, supports nail plate integrity, and promotes restoration of healthy nail and cuticle tissue throughout the duration of treatment.

Does Polybalm help with nail recovery after chemotherapy ends?

Yes. Polybalm® is recommended for continued use for a minimum of one month after chemotherapy treatment ends. Ongoing use beyond that period progressively strengthens and restores nail health.

Chemotherapy-induced nail damage can persist or worsen in the weeks following treatment completion as nails continue to reflect the cumulative effects of prior cycles. Continued Polybalm application supports nail plate restoration, cuticle repair, and healthy new nail growth during the post-treatment recovery period.

What happens if I stop using Polybalm?

Your nails may gradually return to their previous condition if you stop using Polybalm, especially if they were already damaged or brittle before use. Consistent, ongoing use is the most important factor in maintaining nail health — particularly during and following chemotherapy treatment when nail recovery is an active process.

How does nail cooling during chemotherapy compare to using Polybalm?

Some chemotherapy infusion centers offer frozen gloves or nail cooling during infusion as a preventive measure. Polybalm® is fully compatible with nail cooling protocols and provides complementary daily protection between infusion appointments.

Unlike nail cooling which is only applied during infusion, Polybalm delivers continuous 2–3 times daily botanical protection — anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial — throughout the entire treatment period. Patients using nail cooling are encouraged to also use Polybalm daily for comprehensive nail toxicity management.

Can I use nail polish while using Polybalm?

Yes, but for best results, apply Polybalm directly to bare nails. If you use nail polish, allow Polybalm to fully absorb before applying polish.

During active chemotherapy treatment, oncology teams often recommend avoiding nail polish and acrylics to allow monitoring of nail color changes and reduce infection risk.
Can Polybalm be used on artificial nails or gel manicures?

Polybalm® is designed for natural nails. While it can be used on cuticles and the skin surrounding artificial nails, its effectiveness may be reduced when applied directly over gel or acrylic nails, as the product needs to penetrate the natural nail surface to deliver its full benefit.

Does Polybalm work on both fingernails and toenails?

Yes. Polybalm® is formulated for use on all 20 nails — both fingernails and toenails. Toenail damage is frequently overlooked by patients but can cause significant pain, affect mobility, and increase infection risk during cancer treatment. Each box includes one tube for fingernails and one for toenails.

Who Can Use Polybalm
Section 04
Who can use Polybalm?

Polybalm® was physician-developed specifically for chemotherapy patients experiencing nail toxicity, and its 100% natural botanical formula also provides significant benefits for:

  • Women experiencing nail changes due to menopause
  • Individuals with nail damage from gel manicures, acrylic nails, or nail salon chemicals
  • Those with nail brittleness caused by nutritional or vitamin deficiencies
  • Anyone with aging, splitting, or chronically dry nails and cuticles

Polybalm’s gentle, chemical-free formula makes it safe and effective for all of these conditions.

Is Polybalm suitable for male cancer patients?

Yes. Polybalm® was clinically studied in both breast cancer patients (n=37) and prostate cancer patients (n=23) in the published double-blind randomized controlled trial (Thomas et al., 2018), demonstrating statistically significant nail protection in both male and female patients. Polybalm is equally effective for men undergoing chemotherapy for prostate cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and other cancers treated with nail-toxic regimens.

Is Polybalm a good gift for someone going through chemotherapy or cancer treatment?

Polybalm® is one of the most thoughtful, clinically meaningful gifts for anyone undergoing chemotherapy or cancer treatment. Unlike generic gift items, Polybalm addresses a real and often overlooked side effect of chemotherapy — nail toxicity — with a physician-developed, 100% natural, clinically proven formula recommended by oncologists, dermatologists, podiatrists, and oncology nurses.

Available at polybalmusa.com, Amazon, and eBay. Ships directly to any U.S. address.

Can children use Polybalm?

While Polybalm® is made from 100% natural ingredients, its use in children has not been clinically studied. Consult a pediatrician before use on children.

Can Polybalm be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There are no known risks associated with Polybalm® during pregnancy or breastfeeding, given its 100% natural botanical formula. However, pregnant or nursing individuals should consult their doctor before use as a standard precaution.

Can I use Polybalm on my skin or hair?

Polybalm® is specifically formulated for nails and cuticles. While it contains beneficial natural botanical ingredients, it is not intended for skin or hair application and has not been tested or optimized for those uses.

Safety, Ingredients & Regulation
Section 05
What are the ingredients in Polybalm?

Polybalm® contains eight 100% natural botanical ingredients:

  • African Sage Oil
  • Eucalyptus Leaf
  • Lavender Flower
  • Unrefined Shea Butter
  • Beeswax
  • Organic Cocoa Seed Butter
  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
  • Wintergreen Leaf

Together these deliver a clinically selected combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and analgesic properties. Polybalm contains no synthetic chemicals, no preservatives, no parabens, and no sulfates.

Is Polybalm safe to use during chemotherapy?
✓ Zero Adverse Events in Clinical Trial

Yes. Polybalm® is specifically formulated for use during active chemotherapy treatment and has demonstrated a perfect safety profile — zero adverse events were recorded in the published double-blind randomized controlled trial (Thomas et al., 2018), with 100% trial completion in both arms.

Polybalm is 100% natural, free from synthetic chemicals, preservatives, parabens, and sulfates, and gentle enough for the sensitive skin and compromised immune systems of patients undergoing cancer treatment. No prescription required.

Always consult your oncologist or oncology care team before adding any new product to your care routine during active treatment.
Is Polybalm FDA regulated?

Polybalm® is classified as a cosmetic product and is fully compliant with applicable U.S. cosmetic regulations. It is manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Polybalm is also registered and approved under UK cosmetic regulations governed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), providing an additional layer of regulatory validation that distinguishes it from unregulated nail care products.

As with all cosmetic products, Polybalm is not FDA-approved as a drug. Patients are encouraged to discuss Polybalm with their oncologist or oncology care team prior to use during active chemotherapy treatment.

Are there any side effects?

Polybalm® is generally very well tolerated. Zero adverse events were reported in the published clinical trial. However, individuals with known allergies to essential oils or plant extracts should review the ingredient list and perform a patch test before use.

If you notice redness, swelling, or irritation, discontinue use immediately and wash the area with mild soap and water. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider.
Can I use Polybalm if I have an allergy to essential oils?

If you have known allergies to essential oils or plant extracts, consult the full ingredient list and perform a patch test before applying to your nails. Contact our Customer Care Team at Info@PolybalmUSA.com if you have specific allergy questions.

Product Details
Section 06
How much product is in each box and how long does it last?

Each box of Polybalm® contains 2 tubes — one dedicated tube for fingernails and one for toenails. Each tube contains 8ml (approximately 0.27 fl oz) of product.

When used as directed (2–3 times daily), each box lasts 4–6 weeks. One individual tube typically lasts approximately 4 weeks.

Why is Polybalm sometimes hard to get out of the tube?

Because Polybalm® contains natural waxes, it can become firm in cold temperatures. This is completely normal and does not affect product quality. If the balm is too hard to swab out:

  • Warm the tube in your hands for a minute, or
  • Place the tube in warm (not hot) water for a few minutes

This will soften the balm and make it easy to apply.

Can I damage the applicator if Polybalm is cold?
Important: If Polybalm is cold and firm, forcing the applicator inside the tube can cause it to break. Do not bend or apply excessive pressure to the applicator when the product is firm.

Always warm the tube first, then gently swab the balm once softened.

What should I do if my Polybalm melts or hardens?

Since Polybalm contains natural waxes, it may soften in high temperatures and harden in cold temperatures. Both are normal and do not affect product quality.

  • If melted: store in a cool place until it returns to normal consistency
  • If hardened: warm gently between your hands or place in warm water before application

Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight for best results.

Can I travel with Polybalm?

Yes. Polybalm is TSA-compliant and can be carried in a carry-on bag. Each tube is 8ml, well within the 100ml TSA liquid limit.

Does Polybalm have a Subscribe & Save option?

Yes. Polybalm® is available with a Subscribe & Save option on Amazon, allowing chemotherapy patients and caregivers to ensure consistent, uninterrupted supply throughout the duration of cancer treatment. Consistent daily use is critical for optimal nail protection, making Subscribe & Save an ideal option for patients on ongoing treatment regimens.

Is there a free nail care guide available?

Yes. Polybalm USA offers a free 16-page Nail Care Patient Guide specifically written for chemotherapy patients experiencing nail toxicity. The guide covers nail protection strategies before, during, and after treatment, signs of nail damage to watch for, and how to use Polybalm for optimal results.

Download it free at polybalmusa.com.

Ordering & Pricing
Section 07
Where can I buy Polybalm?

Polybalm® is currently available at:

We are actively expanding to additional major retail platforms. We ship directly to customers throughout the United States.

How much does Polybalm cost?

Visit polybalmusa.com for current pricing. Polybalm is very affordable compared to prescription nail treatments and costs less than most single manicure-pedicure appointments in the majority of U.S. states — while delivering clinically proven nail protection throughout chemotherapy treatment.

Do you offer bulk or wholesale orders?

Polybalm USA offers wholesale and bulk pricing for qualified institutional buyers, including oncology clinics, hospitals, cancer centers, and distributors. Contact our Customer Care Team at Info@PolybalmUSA.com for institutional inquiries.

We do not offer standard bulk discounts for individual consumer orders. Occasional limited-time promotions may include multi-unit savings.

Do you have active discount codes or promotions?

Polybalm USA periodically offers promotions and discount codes announced through our email and SMS subscriber list. There is no permanent discount code, and promotions vary in frequency and duration.

Sign up at polybalmusa.com to be notified of upcoming offers.

Shipping
Section 08
What countries do you ship to?

Polybalm USA ships to all 50 U.S. states. We do not currently offer international shipping. All orders ship directly from our U.S. fulfillment center.

Do you offer express shipping?

Yes. Polybalm USA offers two shipping options:

  • Standard Ground: 7–9 business days
  • Express: 3–5 business days

Overnight shipping is not available. Shipping options and rates are presented at checkout on polybalmusa.com.

Do you offer free shipping?

Polybalm USA occasionally offers free shipping promotions that vary in frequency and may apply to single or multi-unit orders. Free shipping is not a permanent offering. Sign up for our email and SMS list at polybalmusa.com to be notified of active promotions.

Returns & Customer Care
Section 09
What is the return policy?

Polybalm USA accepts returns under the following conditions:

  • Return window: Within 15 days of shipment
  • Condition: Unopened and unused, with original tamper-sealed packaging intact
  • Restocking fee: 35%
  • Return shipping: Customer’s responsibility

To initiate a return, contact our Customer Care Team at Info@PolybalmUSA.com.

How can I contact customer service?

For questions or assistance, please contact our Customer Care Team at Info@PolybalmUSA.com. We aim to respond to all inquiries promptly.

Institutional & Clinical Purchasing
Section 10
Can oncology clinics and cancer centers purchase Polybalm for their patients?

Yes. Polybalm USA offers wholesale and institutional pricing for oncology clinics, cancer treatment centers, infusion centers, and hospital systems looking to incorporate Polybalm® into patient support programs, starter kits, or nail toxicity management protocols.

Polybalm is the only clinically proven, physician-developed topical nail intervention supported by a double-blind randomized controlled trial, making it the evidence-based choice for oncology institutions.

Contact our Customer Care Team at Info@PolybalmUSA.com to discuss institutional pricing and program options.

Do you have retail store locations?

Polybalm USA does not have retail store locations. Polybalm® is available exclusively online through polybalmusa.com, Amazon, and eBay. We ship directly to customers throughout the United States.

Still have a question?

Our Customer Care Team is ready to help.

Email Info@PolybalmUSA.com