How to mitigate the effects of cancer treatments on your skin

Cancer treatments can cause changes to your physical appearance, and the skin is no exception. And, like the rest of the body, it can take time for it to recover. It’s important to take care of yourself during and after treatment. Adopting a skincare routine can help you regain a healthy glow.

What are the possible side effects of cancer treatment?

All cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy, may cause side effects that affect the skin. The frequency, nature, and severity of these effects can vary, of course, depending on several factors:

• The person being treated;
• The duration of treatment;
• The treatment type;
• The number of doses;
• The person’s skin type;
• The person’s sensitivity level.

Treatments that target rapidly renewing cells (such as cancer cells) often affect neighbouring cells as well. This means healthy cells, like rapidly renewing hair, skin, and nail cells, can be damaged. As a result, patients may experience skin-related symptoms such as:

• Dryness;
• Itching or hives;
• Irritation and redness;
• Sensation of tightness, burning, or pain;
• Changes in pigmentation (such as the appearance of brown, purple, or white spots);
• Rashes resembling eczema, acne, or hives;
• Hand-foot syndrome;
• Photosensitivity;
• Infections.

Does chemotherapy cause skin to age?

Skin may appear prematurely aged following chemotherapy treatments. Treatments that also attack healthy skin cells can lead to dryness and reduced elasticity. Such side effects, combined with the fatigue and stress associated with the disease, can make the facial skin look older.

How should I moisturize my skin during chemotherapy?

After cancer treatment, the skin may be more fragile and require special attention to relieve dryness, irritation, increased sensitivity, and other side effects. Here are a few tips to help your skin stay moisturized:

• Moisturize daily with a nourishing, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic cream. Apply to slightly damp skin for best results and gently massage onto the face to stimulate microcirculation, promote cellular regeneration, and enjoy a moment of relaxation.
• Avoid skincare products that contain alcohol, perfumes, dyes, and other irritants.
• Avoid extended sun exposure. When outside, cover up and apply a good sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher 20 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours.
• Take baths and showers in lukewarm—not hot—water.
• Do not rub skin vigorously. Instead, gently pat skin dry with a towel.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of soft, natural fibres like cotton. Avoid wool, synthetic fabrics, latex, and other irritating fabrics.
• Try not to scratch, even when you feel itchy.

What can I do to take care of my skin after chemotherapy?

Lifestyle habits can have a major impact on your overall well-being, including the health of your skin. To maintain beautiful skin, it’s best to break bad habits that can be even more harmful to people with cancer. Conversely, good habits, such as those listed below, can keep your skin looking healthy and hydrated:

• Stay hydrated. Keeping a bottle of water with you at all times will help with this.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Drink alcohol in moderation.
• Stay active. Choose physical activities based on your abilities and limitations.
• Stop smoking and/or vaping to reduce skin problems and strengthen your immune system.
• Get good sleep and take naps as needed to keep your energy up.

Which moisturizer is best to use after radiation therapy?

After radiation therapy, the skin often becomes more sensitive, dry, or irritated. The key word when taking care of it is gentle. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance- and alcohol-free creams specially formulated for sensitive or fragile skin. Remember to apply cream to clean, damp skin to enhance its moisturizing effect.

Some brands, such as La Roche-Posay, offer skincare products designed to support skin during and after cancer treatment. These products provide intense nourishment, help repair the skin barrier, and provide immediate relief from discomfort.

 

 

Other resources are also available to help you cope with the disease and side effects of treatment. The organization Belle et bien dans sa peau, for instance, offers free makeup and skincare workshops for cancer patients.

What skincare products and habits should I avoid during chemotherapy?

When the skin is weakened, certain practices and products can do more harm than good. Here are some to avoid:

• Irritating products, such as those containing alcohol, perfumes, or dyes
• Excessively abrasive scrubs or exfoliants, which can aggravate irritation
• Very hot baths and showers, which can dry out skin even more
• Prolonged unprotected sun exposure (SPF 50 is recommended), as photosensitivity is a common side effect of cancer treatments
• Vigorous rubbing of skin with towels and irritating clothing (such as wool or certain synthetic fabrics)

 

 

Health professionals are there to help you!

Before starting cancer treatment, prepare yourself by finding out what symptoms you may experience. Your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse can answer any questions about your skin or other health concerns.

Some skin-related symptoms may require medical treatment. If relief remains elusive or your skin condition worsens, consult a health care professional as soon as possible. They will be able to assess your condition and recommend suitable treatments.

Last updated on August 25, 2025

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