Chemotherapy is one of the most common cancer treatment methods. Although it has many benefits in overcoming cancer, this treatment often causes side effects that affect the condition of the body, including the skin. Well, there are often certain steps or products we have to avoid. Of course, this can be an inconvenience! For many people, the process of using skincare itself is a method of self-care.

During chemotherapy, our skin may experience changes such as becoming dry, rough and more sensitive. Therefore, it is important to know how to take care of your skin to keep it healthy and protected from the side effects of this treatment. In this article, we will discuss the steps to maintain healthy skin during chemotherapy, as well as some tips. Stay tuned till the end, Sereni-Trees!

How does chemotherapy affect the skin?

Chemotherapy works by attacking rapidly growing cells in the body, including cancer cells. However, healthy skin cells can also be affected, as they too are fast-growing cells. This can lead to various changes in the skin, including:

• Dry and rough skin: Skin can become very dry and lose its natural moisture, leading to a rough and cracked texture.
• Irritation and itching: The skin may feel itchy and irritated, and even develop a rash or redness.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight: The skin becomes more prone to burning when exposed to sunlight.
• Skin discoloration: Chemotherapy can cause skin hyperpigmentation or discoloration in some areas of the body.

Even though it sounds simple, it can make people uncomfortable and lose confidence! 

Protect your skin by doing this

So how do we protect our skin? Relax, even though there are some obstacles, we can still maintain and take good care of our skin during the chemotherapy process. Some of the ways that we can follow are:

• Choose the Right Skin Care Products

Choosing products that are gentle and non-irritating is the first step. Avoid products that contain fragrance, as this can aggravate irritation. Use a mild soap like Serenitree natural body wash (no SLS, fragrance, parabens and phthalates).

• Bathing in Cold or Warm Water

Avoid bathing in hot water, as it can aggravate dry skin. Opt for cool or warm water, and limit your shower time (too long a shower can strip the skin of its natural oils). When you’re done showering, don’t rub your skin with a towel, but pat gently to avoid hurting your skin.

• Apply moisturizer immediately after showering

Moist skin after a shower is the best time to lock in moisture. Use an unscented moisturizer like Serenitree body lotion to keep skin hydrated and avoid irritation.

• Reduce Shaving Frequency

It is better to reduce the frequency of shaving. If you must shave, use an electric shaver that is gentler on the skin and avoid sharp razors.

• Wear loose-fitting clothing

Tight clothing can cause friction and irritation to the skin. Choose loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, especially if you have a rash or sensitive skin.

• Use Gentle Detergent

Wash clothes with gentle, dye-free and fragrance-free detergents. Regular detergents can cause irritation to already sensitive skin.

• Protect Skin from Sunlight

Chemotherapy can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it is important to protect yourself when outdoors. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, apply lip balm with SPF, and wear protective clothing such as wide hats and long-sleeved clothing. 

It’s not difficult, right Sereni-Trees? If there’s a will, there’s always a way to healthy skin and body! Don’t forget to stay hydrated from within (drink) during treatment in moderation!

Avoid Skincare With These Ingredients!

Our body conditions that are experiencing illness will certainly be more vulnerable than those whose body conditions are fit. That’s why we have to be extra careful about what we use as skincare. On the product label, make sure there are NO ingredients such as:

• Detergents and Alcohols (such as SLS and Denatured Alcohol)

During chemotherapy, skin often becomes very dry and sensitive. Detergents such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) which is usually present in foaming products, and Denatured Alcohol, can strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening dry skin conditions. Detergents are also alkalizing and can disrupt the skin’s pH balance, making it more prone to irritation. In addition, alcohol can also trigger redness, especially in the cheek area.

• Parabens (such as Methylparaben)

Although still debated, parabens are considered by some to be hormone disruptors and may mimic estrogen. Therefore, we should avoid them, especially if our cancer is estrogen-sensitive.

• Fragrance (like Perfume)

The term Perfume is often used to cover hundreds of potential chemicals and irritants. One ingredient that is often present in perfumes is phthalates.

• Petrochemicals (such as Petroleum Jelly)

Petroleum jelly is useful as a moisture barrier in lip balms and skin moisturizers. Apparently, petroleum is a carcinogen (cancer-causing substance), so its use is restricted. Given that many everyday products contain this ingredient, it’s best to avoid it, especially in products that pose a risk of ingestion, such as lip balms or lipsticks.

• Formaldehyde

Some common preservatives in skincare products are known to release formaldehyde. Avoid ingredients such as Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, DMDM Hydantoin, and Diazolidinyl Urea. 

If there are ingredients that you are unfamiliar with or unsure about, it’s best to do your research first or ask an expert. Make sure to consult a doctor to be on the safe side, Sereni-Trees! Don’t take risks and use dangerous ingredients for instant results that can have bad consequences. 

Instead, try natural alternatives like shea butter. This is a natural ingredient that is extremely gentle and has high moisturizing capabilities. Rich in vitamins A and E, shea butter is perfect for treating very dry or cracked skin. Curious to try it? Learn more about Serenitree’s natural skincare! Hope this article helps!