Cancer Treatments and Dry Skin

Cancer treatments can either cause dry skin or if you already have dry skin it can become much drier. If you are scheduled for treatment here is what you should know before hand.

Chemotherapy and radiation can cause the skin to crack, peel, and become very dry. This is caused by the disease treatment itself. It is like a two edged sword. You have to get the disease stopped but for some people it is devastating to the skin. The treatment is designed to stop the rapid division of cells within your body. This slows the progression of the cancer but it also slows down the normal cell renewal process of your skin. It really makes sense when you think about it.

Before Your Treatments Begin

--Start using moisturizer like crazy about 2 weeks before your treatments start.

--Stay hydrated. Drink at least 2 quarts of filtered water a day.

--Change your laundry detergent and home cleaning products to something mild now (for what I personally use and recommend).

You don't want to risk an allergic reaction after treatment starts.

--Wear gloves whenever you are doing any chores around the house.

--Switch now to personal products that do not have dyes, perfumes, and toxic chemicals.

--Did I mention moisturizer? Do it again. I use the best moisturizer for dry skin. It also contains tea tree oil which is beneficial for those needing to combat bacterial infections when they are so vulnerable. For the moisturizer I personally use and recommend.

During Your Treatment

--Continue to do the above listed items.

--Get lots of rest.

--Wear clothing that is loose and preferably silk, cotton, or other natural fiber other than wool.

--Avoid rubbing your skin. When you shower pat yourself dry after wards and don't scrub with a wash cloth. Your hand works just as well.

--And, speaking of bathing, use tepid water for bathing and showering. Hot water will further deplete the oils in your skin causing it to dry even more.

--Forget about dry skin exfoliation. Your skin is much too fragile for this now.

--After bathing immediately moisturize your skin. You want to lock in as much moisture as you can.

--For shaving use an electric shaver to avoid nicks and cuts. You are more prone to infections now.

--Avoid any known allergens. Allergies can be worse during cancer treatment.

--Avoid weather extremes as this can also contribute to your dry skin dehydration problem.

--Do Not use any perfumed soaps or personal products.

--Cover up your skin after bathing to preserve moisture.

--When using cosmetics and creams do not "share". And, never use your fingers to dip into a jar of cream for facial dry skin. Use a wooden stick to get what you need. Then dispose of the stick after you get what you need. This way you will not transfer bacteria to your products or your skin. You must avoid infections.

--Itchy skin? Add some baking soda or ground up oatmeal to the tub.

--Cover up with sunscreen before going outside. You are now more sensitive to sunlight. So stay out of the sun.

Consult your doctor if severe itching or hives occur. This could mean you are having an allergic reaction. Also, if you are running a temperature, have cut yourself, or any signs of infection call your physician.

After Care