Cancer patients undergoing different treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplant can experience side effects that can cause skin issues like rashes, dry skin, itchy skin, color changes, and photosensitivity.
Most skin problems can be resolved without doing anything after the treatment, while other issues can linger. Here at Sea Active Skincare, we will be sharing a blog post about skincare tips while undergoing chemotherapy. Continue reading below to find out more information.
What Are the Skin Problems That Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Can Experience?
Chemo Rash
Different types of rashes can develop in individuals undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplant. The rashes may appear like acne or measles and this can be a sign that the treatment is working.
How to Prevent Chemo Rash
This certain side effect can be avoided by doing the following:
- Use a mild, gentle, and low pH cleanser.
- Avoid scrubbing the skin. Do not use a rough cloth, sponge, and other abrasive products.
- Moisturize skin using gentle and unscented moisturizing products.
- Do not use products with fragrances as they can irritate your skin, including laundry soap and dishwashing detergent. Use products that are unscented, gentle, and made from mild formulations.
- Avoid sunbathing and direct sun exposure.
- When going out, make sure to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and loose clothing to cover the skin.
Itchy Skin
Some cancer patients can experience itchy skin after receiving cancer treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Extremely itchy skin can cause stress and anxiety. Continuous scratching can cause sores to break out making the skin prone to various infections.
How to Deal With Itchy Skin
- Bathe using warm water.
- When bathing use baking soda, bath oil, or oatmeal inside a clean cloth or mesh pouch.
- Use a soft cloth when bathing.
- Use mild, gentle, and unscented products.
- Avoid rubbing the skin after bathing. Use a soft towel and pat yourself dry using a gentle motion.
Tips After Bathing
- Avoid using deodorant, use baking soda instead.
- Use an electric razor when shaving instead of a blade.
- Avoid using alcohol-free and unscented skin cream 2-3 times per day. Use products with camphor, menthol, or pramoxine.
Daily Routine
- The room must be well-ventilated and when using an air-conditioner, the temperature must be set around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent sweating.
- Wear loose clothes that are not irritating to the skin.
- Increase water intake.
- Get enough rest and sleep. If the skin is itchy you can ask the pharmacist for an antihistamine cream.
Tips to Avoid Itching
- Apply cool wet packs to itchy skin. Place crushed ice inside an ice bag and apply it on the itchy skin.
- Avoid scratching, try rubbing or applying vibration or pressure on the itchy skin.
- Keep your nails short and clean to prevent damage and infection of the skin if you can’t help to scratch.
- Wear soft gloves so you won’t scratch yourself if the skin gets too itchy.
- Distract yourself from the itchiness of the skin by doing activities like reading, watching TV, listening to music, etc.
- Take the prescribed anti-itch medicine on time.
- Check out over-the-counter remedies such as creams or lotions.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common side effect experienced by cancer patients undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplant. While the skin may appear normal, it can also become discolored, rough to the touch, and prone to flaking. In severe cases, cracks can appear on the skin, leading to bleeding on lines and creases, particularly on areas like the elbows and knuckles.
How to Deal With Dry Skin
This certain side effect can be managed by doing the following:
When Bathing
- Use warm water and avoid using hot water. Always check the temperature of the water and make sure it is not too hot before bathing.
- Avoid scrubbing the skin. Do not rub dry skin as it can irritate and cause it to bleed.
- Do not use harsh and abrasive products like rough washcloths, loofahs, and sponges.
- Use baby oil and mineral oil in the bath water. You can also apply it after showering while the skin is still damp.
After Bathing
- Use gentle and soothing moisturizer at least twice a day, after showering or bathing while the skin is still damp.
- For extremely dry and cracked skin, use skincare products that seal the water on the skin. Look for skincare products that contain ingredients like urea, ammonium, lactic acid, and salicylic acid.
- Avoid skincare products that contain harsh ingredients like alcohol.
- Use an electric razor when shaving.
Daily Routine
- Increase water and fluid intake. Drink around 2-3 quarts of water every day.
- Avoid direct sunlight, especially dry heat.
- Keep skin protected from extreme cold and strong winds.
- Use gentle moisturizers to relieve dry skin.
Skincare for Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy
For cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, skincare is essential to manage side effects such as radiation dermatitis. This condition is characterized by a rash that develops during radiation treatment and appears on the skin in the treated area.
Typically, it occurs within 90 days of starting treatment and its severity may vary depending on factors such as the size of the affected area, the amount of radiation applied, and the length of treatment. In addition to a rash, radiation dermatitis can cause redness, flaking, dry skin, and even ulcers.
What Are the Tips For After-Radiation Treatment?
When Bathing
- Use gentle and mild products when bathing.
- Avoid scrubbing the skin.
- Do not shave the affected area.
- Apply moisturizer after bathing or showering while the skin is still damp. Avoid applying creams on open wounds.
- Do not peel off the flaking skin.
Daily Routine
- Treat wounds and sores.
- Do not put surgical tape or bandages on the affected area.
- Use unscented and mild skincare products.
- Avoid using deodorant and talcum powder.
- Wear loose and soft clothing.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.
After undergoing radiation therapy, the skin may become dry and prone to irritation. If you are looking for skincare products to help manage these side effects, Sea Active Skincare offers a range of options that are recommended for both radiation therapy and chemotherapy patients. Our products are made with all-natural and organic ingredients, including seaweed, to promote healing and soothe the skin.
If you have any questions or inquiries about our products, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 858-676-9727 or via email at customercare@seaactiveskincare.com. Choosing a reliable and trustworthy shop like Sea Active Skincare can help ensure that you get the best organic skincare products that meet your needs. Don’t wait, contact us today and let us help you find the perfect skincare products for your unique situation.
