The effects of cancer treatment on the skin
Why does cancer treatment cause skin changes?
During radiation therapy, beams of radiation pass through the skin, which can damage both healthy and cancerous cells. If you receive frequent radiation
By understanding what might happen to your skin, you can reduce the risk of infections and prepare yourself for any side effects that may arise. To learn about all possible side effects of your treatment, contact your doctor.
- What skin related side effects are common for the type of treatment I’m receiving?
- Are there steps I can take to prevent any of these problems?
- What problems should I call you about? Are there any problems that need urgent medical care?
- When might these problems start? How long might they last?
- What brands of soap and lotion would you advise me to use on my skin?
- Are there skin products I should avoid?
Skin rash & Cancer Treatment
Skin rashes are a common side effect of certain types of cancer treatments. Cancer treatments that can cause skin rash may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplants.
Each Cancer Treatment Can Cause Different Side Effects
Chemotherapy |
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Radiotherapy |
The person giving you your radiotherapy will tell you how to care for your skin during and after your treatment. It is important to follow their advice. |
Stem Cell Transplant | This may cause graft versus host disease, which can cause skin problems such as a rash, blisters, or thickening of the skin. |
Immunotherapy | Immunotherapy can cause a severe and sometimes extensive rash, which can become dry or blister. |
Targeted Therapy |
Usually, the rash appears as pimples and pus-filled bumps after a few days, and the surrounding skin can feel slightly tender. Rashes can occur within the first few weeks and are usually mild to moderate in severity. |
Steroids | May lead to spots and redness of the skin. |
Treatment for chemo rash and other skin changes
There are several treatments available for these side effects, depending on the severity and type of the reaction. A corticosteroid cream, along with an oral antibiotic or antibiotic cream, may be prescribed for mild to moderate skin rashes. In the event that the rash is more severe, oral corticosteroids may be administered, and your treatment regimen may be adjusted accordingly.
Symptoms of skin changes related to cancer treatment and why you should be aware of them
Symptoms of skin changes
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain or Tenderness
- Blisters or Wet Sores
- Peeling skin
- Acne
- Bed sores
- Burning
- Dry skin
- Darker areas of skin, tongue, and joints
- Patches of skin that are lighter
- Itchy skin
- Dome-shaped skin growth
- Photosensitivity - Sunburn
- Rash
Additionally, you should notify your care team if:
- Your rash worsens after prescribed creams or ointments.
- You have itching that lasts more than 48 hours.
- Your rash develops into blisters, becomes bright red, develops pus or crusts over.
- Your rash is painful.
Skin care products for cancer patients
Use un-perfumed bath, shower and skincare products and soap-free cleansers. |
Try using a moisturising cream that contains oatmeal, menthol or 10% urea. This will reduce itchiness. |
Do not use products containing sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), especially if you have eczema. |
For dry or sore lips, use a lip balm containing moisturising ingredients such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline®), shea butter or glycerine. |
Avoid petroleum jelly if you are having radiotherapy to the head or neck, or if you are using oxygen. |
To keep extra safe you should buy new makeup to use during and after treatment and replace regularly to reduce the risk of infections. |
If you are having a targeted therapy drug, avoid any products containing colouring. |
Skincare routine
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it. |
Always use a clean, soft towel. |
Moisturise your skin regularly, to stop dryness and itching. Especially after washing. |
Avoid long, hot showers or baths. |
Learn how to cope with nail changes with our blog - Coping with Nails Changes During Cancer Treatment