Cells that rapidly divide and grow are the most affected by chemotherapy, which includes your skin and nails.
These effects depend on the chemotherapy drug, the dose and length of treatment and if you are having other treatments.
Skin and nail changes
It’s very common to develop skin and nail reactions as a result of your chemotherapy treatment. The majority of intravenous and oral chemotherapy can cause some mild to moderate skin reactions. You may experience dry skin, rash, photosensitivity, nail problems and hyper-pigmentation.
Skin dryness is particularly common, which you may experience as scaly, red, flaky, tight and itchy skin. The top layer of your skin may appear dry, flat and rough. Skin reactions are likely to be widespread across the face, hands, feet, neck, back and chest. Other skin effects include:
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Changes in skin colour
- Acne like rash
Chemotherapy drugs can also cause mild and temporary changes in your nails. Brittleness, grooving or discolouration can occur.
There are a number of strategies that you may find helpful to prevent or manage changes to your skin:
- Use a moisturising cream or lotion daily to prevent moisture loss and restore moisture to the skin. Apply moisturiser up to two to three times a day after you shower or bath
- Avoid using moisturising products containing lanolin, parabens and fragrance
- Use bath oils after you shower or bath
- Avoid using soap, particularly perfumed soaps
- Wear sufficient protective clothing and apply sunscreen before going outside
- Drink up to two to three litres of water every day to help keep the skin hydrated
- Make sure your shower or bath is short and warm rather than long and hot
- Wear cotton clothes if possible – wool and synthetic fibres can further irritate dry skin
Nail care during treatment should involve:
- Avoiding cutting your cuticles
- Wearing rubber gloves when doing dishes or housework
- Avoiding use of artificial nails
- Keeping nails short
You should inspect your skin daily for any signs of redness, swelling or discomfort. Report any signs of redness immediately. Talk to your care team before using any over-the-counter preparations and remedies. If symptoms impact on your daily activities or sleep, you should speak with your care team. There are medications which may manage the effects.
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