Cancer treatments often trigger various side effects, including changes to the skin. Many cancer patients seek skincare solutions to address these issues, and if you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. At Sea Active Skincare, we offer organic and all-natural products designed to be gentle and mild. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to care for your skin while undergoing cancer treatment. Keep reading to learn more.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatment?
The skin is particularly vulnerable during cancer treatment, often experiencing dryness, itchiness, a burning sensation, sensitivity, irritation, pain, and inflammation.
In a study involving 27 cancer patients undergoing treatment, four out of five individuals reported experiencing various skin-related side effects. Unfortunately, severe side effects often lead patients to discontinue their treatment altogether.
What Happens to the Skin During Cancer Treatment?
The impact on the skin can vary depending on the type of cancer treatment an individual undergoes, leading to a range of effects. Common side effects include dryness, itchiness, sensitivity, increased photosensitivity, hyperpigmentation, and heightened susceptibility to infection.
Nearly half of all individuals undergoing cancer treatment are likely to experience skin issues, which often extend to the hair and nails as well.
Treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy target cancer cells, while immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system, affecting not only cancer cells but also other organ systems, including the skin. Given that the skin is the body’s largest organ, it is often the most significantly impacted.
What are the Ingredients in Skincare Products That You Should Avoid?
During radiotherapy, the skin often becomes red and sensitive, akin to sunburn. Its protective barrier weakens, making it prone to irritation from various products like perfumes and preservatives. Sensitizers such as essential oils should be steered clear of.
Opting for skincare products designed for sensitive skin, with fewer sensitizing ingredients, is advisable. Look for formulations specifically tailored for post-procedure care.
Skincare specialists recommend avoiding products with harsh components such as toners and facial treatments containing alcohol, BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), or irritant anti-acne agents like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.
Likewise, harsh exfoliants with beads should be avoided. Consider reassessing topical treatments like vitamin C and tretinoins to determine their suitability during cancer treatment. Consulting a dermatologist is crucial to ensure the use of safe and beneficial skincare products throughout cancer treatment.
What are the Recommended Skincare Products to Use During Cancer Treatment?
Cleansers
Opt for gentle, mild skin cleansers that are free of preservatives to avoid irritation to post-cancer treatment skin.
Moisturizers
Regularly moisturize your skin to prevent dryness, promoting hydration and establishing a protective skin barrier. Begin moisturizing before commencing cancer treatment, applying in a downward motion on arms and legs to reduce hair follicle inflammation.
Creams and ointments offer superior hydration compared to gels, ceramides, or lotions. For skin pain and rashes, moisturizers, steroid ointments, and topical lidocaine are commonly prescribed.
Moisturizers aid in reducing inflammation, hydrating dry skin, and providing relief for inflamed skin due to cancer treatment. Ceramide-rich creams and lotions ensure long-lasting hydration. Opt for preservative and perfume-free skincare products with excellent hydrating properties.
Choose calming and hydrating products tailored for sensitive skin types to minimize the risk of sensitization and allergic reactions, ensuring safe and effective skincare during cancer treatment.
Sunblock
To shield the skin from further damage caused by harsh UV rays, sun protection products are essential, especially considering sun sensitivity as a potential side effect of cancer treatment.
Ensure skin protection by donning protective clothing like long sleeves and applying sunblock with at least SPF 25. Additionally, use lip balm with a high SPF to prevent chapping and sensitivity. Opt for mineral or physical sunscreens, which are gentler on sensitive or acne-prone skin types.
After cancer treatment, the skin may take longer to heal, remaining red and inflamed in the early stages. Individuals with skin of color face an increased risk of pigmentation. Even during winter, it’s advisable to wear high-factor broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate skin damage.
Apply sunscreen generously to the face, neck, and any exposed areas to ensure comprehensive protection. Reapplication throughout the day, especially before outdoor activities, is crucial for continued defense against the sun’s rays.
Serums
These products penetrate the deeper layers of the skin to provide treatment. Apply a small amount and gently pat onto the skin before using moisturizers. Select a serum tailored to your specific skin type for optimal results.
Exfoliators
Incorporating exfoliating skincare products into your routine can effectively eliminate dry and dead skin cells, thereby enhancing your complexion. These products also facilitate the absorption of serums and moisturizers into the skin.
Apply a small amount onto dampened skin, avoiding the eye area. Rinse off using a soft, wet face cloth or cool running water in the sink. Opt for gentle exfoliating products, using them at least once a week after cleansing. Avoid exfoliation if your skin is sensitive, red, or inflamed.
Are you in search of organic and all-natural skincare products suitable for individuals undergoing cancer treatment? Sea Active Skincare offers a solution. Our gentle and safe skincare products are crafted from organic, all-natural ingredients like seaweed, catering to various skin types.
For more information about our company and current product offerings, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us at 858-676-9727 or email us at customercare@seaactiveskincare.com. Don’t delay—reach out to us today!