5 WAYS TO MANAGE SKIN PROBLEMS DURING CANCER TREATMENT

Published in

Dignite Care

3 min readDec 3, 2017

Cancer treatments are known to cause skin problems. Treatments such as Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and even medicines might introduce skin conditions like rash, itching, dryness, inflammation, scars etc.

Skin reactions are usually temporary and not severe, but sometimes they may become noticeable & uncomfortable.

Skin conditions may get better over time after the treatment, but it might take longer to recover. Rather than waiting for the symptoms it is always better to be prepared to minimize the impact.

Given below are five ways to effectively manage cancer related skin issues

1.Keep The Skin Moist

Take bath in lukewarm water and not in hot water. Hot water can make the skin drier. Limit the number of showers to, one a day. After the shower, apply moisturizer, preferably the ones which are alcohol-free, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Apply moisturizers at least twice a day to keep the skin moist.

2. Protect The Skin From Prolonged Exposure To The Sun

During cancer treatment the skin is more sensitive to sunlight. It’s preferred to use sunshades while outdoors. Also it is recommended wear broad-brimmed hat, long sleeved shirts, long pants etc., which cover the skin from direct exposure to sunlight.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration leads to dryness of the skin and thereby eventually to more harmful side effects. Drink plenty of fluids to keep the skin cells hydrated. Avoid caffeine or alcohol which can dehydrate the body and skin cells.

Water logged skin cells have better immunity to external factors like sunlight, dust etc.

4. Intake of Fruits & Vegetables

Nutrient packed fruits and vegetables, not just add nutrients to the body, it also hydrates the organs to a great extent. Fruits and vegetables like garlic, berries, broccoli, contains compounds that stimulate the immune system’s natural defenses as well.

Plant-based foods contains phytonutrients which help in re-energizing of the skin.

5. Handle The Skin Gently

Do not scratch, rub or scrub the skin. Instead pat your skin dry, after shower or face wash. Don’t use hot or cold packs on treated areas of skin post surgery or radiation. Wear fabrics which are soft & comfortable that do not cause irritation to the skin.