Experiencing Changes in Your Skin and Nails Due to Cancer Treatment?
In the journey of cancer treatment, maintaining personal hygiene can be crucial in limiting potential damage. Licensed aesthetician Michele Taylor, recommended by the Oncology Nursing Society, offers valuable advice on skin and nail care during this challenging time.
One of Taylor's key recommendations is to apply moisturizer within three to five minutes of your bath or shower, when your skin is most absorbent. This simple step can help keep your skin hydrated, a necessity during chemotherapy when dry skin is inevitable.
To further protect your skin, Taylor advises bathing in warm - not hot - water. Excessive heat can exacerbate skin irritation. Additionally, she suggests using a soft washcloth to gently exfoliate your skin, and applying moisturizer throughout the day, especially after washing your hands and always right before bed.
When it comes to nails, certain cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiation can cause them to become brittle. To prevent this, Taylor recommends trimming nails short and keeping them clean using clean nail instruments. If one of your nails loosens or falls off, it's important to inform your care team. They may want to start you on antibiotics to decrease the risk of infection.
Avoiding professional manicures or pedicures is also advisable, as they can expose your nails to potential harm. Instead, Taylor suggests using gentle nail care techniques, and wearing gloves when cleaning or doing yard work or for any task that exposes your hands to chemicals.
Radiation therapy can cause radiation dermatitis, resulting in a rash, flaking, peeling, or blisters at the treatment site. To protect your skin, Taylor recommends wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), especially on your hands, face, and neck.
Skin changes during cancer treatment can lead to other complications, such as itchy skin and the risk of infection from excessive scratching. Taylor's advice is to resist the urge to scratch and instead, keep your skin hydrated and protected.
Following these recommendations can help individuals feel less self-conscious about their appearance during cancer treatment. If someone you love is undergoing cancer treatment, they should follow Taylor's do's and don'ts for skin and nail care. Skin care during cancer treatment is crucial to manage its effects and potential complications.
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