How do you care for your skin during chemotherapy? Experts give tips (Image credit: iStock)
chemotherapy is a widely used treatment in the fight against Cancerwhich gives hope to millions of patients worldwide. Although chemotherapy is effective in fighting and destroying cancer cells, it also brings with it a number of side effects that particularly affect the skin, hair and nails. These dermatological complications can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life during treatment.
Therefore, we contacted Dr. Akanksha Sanghvi, dermatologist, who gives tips on how to Skin health kept in check by chemotherapy.
The effects of chemotherapy on the skin
Dr. Akanksha explains that chemotherapy can drastically affect skin health, leading to a number of problems, including:
Dryness and itching: Dry skin is one of the most common complaints among chemotherapy patients. This condition can cause severe itching, which can lead to further irritation if not treated properly. To relieve dryness and itching, experts recommend:
Moisturize regularly: Using gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers can help retain skin’s moisture. Applying moisturizer immediately after bathing can lock in moisture and soothe irritated skin.
Lukewarm showers: It is important to avoid hot water as it can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness. Taking lukewarm showers can reduce this risk.
Humidifier: Humidifying the air with a humidifier can help combat dry skin, especially in dry or cold climates.
Gentle cleansers: Mild, soap-free cleansers irritate the skin less than more aggressive products.
Rashes and redness: Certain chemotherapy treatments can cause skin reactions that result in rashes and redness. These reactions can vary in severity but can be very distressing for patients.
Gentle care: Using mild cleansers and moisturizers can help soothe irritated skin.
Avoid scratching: Although it may be tempting, scratching can worsen inflammation and lead to infection. Applying cool compresses to the affected area may provide temporary relief.
Increased sun sensitivity
Chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. This sensitivity, also called photosensitivity, requires patients to take extra precautions when exposed to the sun. Dr. Akanksha shares some important tips on how to protect your skin from UV rays.
– Sun protection: Wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, can protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
– Sun protection: Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily is essential, even on cloudy days. When outdoors, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours.
– Limit exposure to the sun: It is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during sunny hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
Changes in the nails
Dr. Akanksha explains that chemotherapy can also affect nails, making them brittle, discolored, or prone to ridges, changes that can be both physically uncomfortable and distressing for patients.
– Nail care: Trimming and filing nails can prevent breakage and relieve discomfort.
– Protect nails: Protecting nails from injury by wearing gloves while doing housework or gardening can minimize damage.
– Gentle products: Using gentle nail care products can prevent further irritation and promote nail health.
What is mucositis?
Although mucositis – an inflammation of the mouth and throat – is not a skin disease in the true sense, it can significantly affect the surrounding skin. Mucositis is a common side effect of chemotherapy, especially when used in the head and neck area.
– Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is crucial. Gently brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush can prevent irritation.
– Mouthwashes: Expert-approved mouthwashes can relieve irritation and prevent infection.
– Hydration: Adequate hydration is important to relieve dryness in the mouth and throat, which can contribute to mucositis.
