Skin Care During Chemotherapy

• These side effects occur because the treatment affects normal cells as well as cancer cells. 
• Some cancer treatments can cause major skin problems.  These skin problems may need very special treatment.  Check with your doctor or nurse to see if any of these skin care tips are not right for you.  
• If you are receiving radiation therapy, always follow the instructions from the Radiation Therapy team for skin care. 

Skin Care

• Use mild soaps such as Basis® or Aveeno®.  Try baking soda in place of soap. Add it to your bath water.
• Take short showers or baths. Use warm, not very hot water.
• Pat your skin dry with a soft, clean towel.  Do not rub your skin with the towel. 
• Use water-based skin creams or lotions. Apply while your skin is still moist.
• Wear soft, clean, breathable clothing.  100% cotton is a good material.
• Keep yourself well hydrated.  Unless your doctor tells you not to, drink about 2 quarts of caffeine-free, alcohol-free fluids per day.
• Use an electric razor
• Keep your nails clean and trimmed to avoid scratches that could become infected.
• Try to avoid lying or sitting in the same position for a long time. Shift your weight or change your position often. 
• Do NOT use:
  • Any creams with hormones unless your doctor tells you to. This includes cream with hydrocortisone.
  • Skin products that contain alcohol. This includes face cleansers, perfumes, and after-shaves.
  • Medication for itching unless it is prescribed by your doctor

Skin Discoloration

• Ask your doctor for advice on skin color changes. In most cases, skin changes disappear soon after treatment ends.

Sun Exposure

• Stay out of direct sun as much as you can. Do not use tanning beds. 
• When outdoors always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.  Wear protective clothing and protective lip balm. or zinc oxide.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat when you go outside.

When to call

• If you develop a new or uncomfortable skin condition
  • Rash, hives
• If you develop symptoms of an infection
  • Redness, swelling, drainage, warmth
• If a current skin condition becomes worse