From Elizabeth H. Levick, MD, radiation oncologist with OHC

December 10, 2018

At OHC, we believe that cancer care should include much more than just medical treatments. It affects all aspects of your life. That’s why we provide the latest information and support services as part of your overall care plan.

One of the more common side effects of cancer treatment is changes to your skin and nails. This can usually be managed with some advanced preparation and special attention to these areas while going through treatment.

Here are some suggestions on how to protect your skin, prevent infection, and reduce itching while going through cancer treatment. Your OHC care team can give you personalized recommendations on what could be most beneficial for you based on the type of treatment you are receiving. Here are some steps you could take to manage skin and nail problems during cancer treatment.

Protect your skin while going through cancer treatment:

  • Use lotions, creams, or ointments for dry, itchy, infected, or swollen skin.
  • Don’t shave as often and consider switching to an electric razor, which can be easier on your skin.
  • Avoid using heating pads, ice packs, or bandages on the area receiving radiation therapy.
  • Wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and SPF lip balm. Cover up as much skin as you can with loose-fitting clothing and a hat with a wide brim.

Prevent or treat dry, itchy skin caused by cancer treatments:

  • Use sensitive skin products that are listed as fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic. This includes laundry detergent.
  • Keep showers or baths short and use lukewarm – not hot – water.
  • Add baking soda, oatmeal (in a cloth or mesh bag) or bath oil to bath water.
  • Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the skin during bathing and gently pat the skin dry afterwards.
  • Keep your home cool (60° to 70° F) and humid.
  • Apply a cool washcloth or ice to ease the affected area.

Prevent or treat minor nail problems:

  • Keep your nails clean and short.
  • Avoid tight-fitting shoes so your toenails aren’t pressed into the front of your shoe.
  • Wear gloves while doing activities such as washing the dishes, gardening, or cleaning the house.
  • Avoid biting your nails and using fake nails, wraps, or anything that binds to your nail.

If your skin and nails need extra help, your OHC doctor may prescribe medications to help reduce swelling and provide relief from dryness and itching. Your safety is always a priority at OHC, so we recommend that you talk with your OHC doctor before taking over-the-counter medicines as they could interfere with your cancer treatment or cause a dangerous reaction.

It’s important to tell us if your skin hurts, you’re getting sores, or you start to see a rash. While certain skin and nail side effects are normal, others are not and can lead to an infection if not properly treated. OHC can help minimize those side effects and keep you in the best possible condition during and after treatment, so you can focus on beating cancer.