Skin Care during Cancer Treatment  

Chemotherapy drugs might be effective in battling cancer cells; however, these powerful drugs also affect healthy cells and tissue in the organism including the skin cells. By killing malignant cells (cancer cells), chemotherapy medications go further to kill normal cells that divide rapidly, primarily healthy cells in the bone marrow, skin, digestive tract, body hair follicle, mouth and reproductive system. In most patients, this abnormal attack on healthy cells results in the occurrence of various side effects such as skin disorders. However, there steps you can take to prevent your skin from developing adverse reactions. Below are some tips that can help you prevent or reverse most skin disorders caused by cancer treatment: 

Be gentle with Your Skin - Use cleansing products containing no harsh chemicals capable of irritating or damaging your skin, but use skin care products made especially for sensitive skin or for people going through cancer treatment such as lindi skin care products. Clean your skin gently, and wear soft fabrics. It is important to avoid the use of hot or cold packs unless your doctor says it’s okay to do so. 

Moisturizing Your Skin – when taking shower, it is better to use lukewarm instead of hot water which tends to remove moisture from the skin causing skin dryness and irritation. In addition to lukewarm water, Limit your showers to once a day, and apply non-chemical and/or non-comedogenic moisturizing lotions (lotions that do not block pores) on your skin after showers. 

Avoid Sun Exposure – it is important to avoid prolonged sun exposure during chemotherapy and radiation therapy. If you have to expose your-self to the sun rays, wear Sunblock. However, it is recommended to ask your doctor if you should use sunblock. It is also recommended to cover your skin and wear a broad-brimmed hat when you go outdoors.  

Treat Skin Rash – it is very common to experience skin rashes during chemotherapy. If you see any development of skin rash anywhere in your body, tell your doctor right away so that you can be prescribed cream or appropriate treatment to solve those dermic issues. In addition, avoid all products that can cause skin allergic reactions.  

Treat fingernails and toenails – during cancer treatment skin around fingernails or toenails may become irritated. The nails of certain patients may become ingrown and discolored. Do not use any product that can worsen your nail conditions. It is not recommended to bite your nails or use fake nails or wraps to cover your cover diseased nails. Avoid all activities that can lead to skin problems. Wear gloves when gardening or washing dishes. Put petroleum jelly on your hands and feet, and cover them with cotton gloves and socks before bed.

Prevent Bed Sores - avoid prolonged bed rest. If the disease or the treatment causes you to spend most of your times lying in bed or sitting in a wheelchair, try to be active when you can; this helps to prevent not only skin sores but also deleterious physiological effects such as muscle atrophy and arterial constriction. If, due to your condition, you cannot leave the bed, you can exercise by moving your arms and legs.

Treat Injection Skin Allergy – most chemotherapy drugs are taken by injection. Drugs that are injected into a vein can leak out and damage the skin, leading to inflammation, redness and irritation. In you experience any of these, tell your doctor right away. He will stop the leaking and clean the affected area to prevent further damage.

Keep Your Doctor Updated On Any Skin Changes - Side effects caused by cancer treatment are enormous; this list includes just a few. Therefore, let your health care provider know of any skin abnormalities during the treatment. He will recommend you therapies to effectively treat the skin condition.  In any case, do not try to treat yourself.