Dry skin
Keeping your skin well moisturised can help with dryness, flaking and discomfort. Your healthcare team may recommend moisturising creams or ointments.
They may also suggest changes to your usual skincare routine. Follow the advice of your medical team, as some products may not be suitable during cancer treatment.
If you are having radiotherapy, check with your radiotherapy team before using any creams or lotions on the treatment area.
We also have some skincare tips below.
Rash or itching
Tell your nurse or doctor if you develop a rash or itchy skin. There are creams and medicines that can help.
Sometimes a rash or itch could be a sign that you are reacting to a drug, so always let your medical team know straight away if you notice any skin changes.
Increased sensitivity to sunlight
Some cancer treatments can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. To protect your skin:
- Avoid direct sun exposure, especially when UV rays are at their strongest (peak daylight hours). In Ireland, this is generally from 11am to 3pm, April to September.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible.
- Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that give 100% UV protection or that have a CE mark.
- Avoid exposing your skin to the sun if you have had radiotherapy.
- Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 (SPF 30+) or SPF 50+ for children. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. If you are having radiotherapy, do not apply sunscreen or other creams to the treatment area without checking with your radiotherapy team first.
