Chemotherapy dermatitis: how to intervene?

Cancer therapies are very aggressive and have a strong impact on the whole body. So while they are vital in fighting the disease, they also cause many drastic changes throughout the skin. These include chemotherapy dermatitis.

Chemotherapy skin reactions occur with different intensities and can appear as early as the start of treatment, but also during or after. Generally, the first alarm bell is the simple feeling of dry skin, a symptom that is often underestimated and overlooked. It is very important to be able to recognize every signal of the body and take care of it by giving the right attention and using the most suitable products.

Chemotherapy dermatitis, skin problem

Chemotherapy dermatitis can occur due to the high intensity of treatments. How to recognize it?

The skin begins to become increasingly delicate and thin, slowing its ability to self-regenerate. As treatment progresses this becomes increasingly sensitive with the appearance of the first redness. Last, erythema occurs, with redness, blisters and itching.

Chemotherapy dermatitis, how to intervene:

When going through chemotherapy dermatitis, it is good to help the skin with properly formulated cosmetics to restore the hydration of the stratum corneum. Dehydration and irritation must be reduced as much as possible.

Studies have shown that treatments of oncological aesthetics, including the use of specific cosmetic products, are very effective in improving skin health, but not only that: they help improve people’s quality of life, leading patients to face the disease with a more positive self-image.

Follow a daily routine

A proper daily routine is necessary:

• Moisturize the skin 2 to 3 times a day with moisturizers with soothing and anti-inflammatory action;
• Use soothing and emollient substances;
• Limit sun exposure and apply sunscreen with a high protective factor;
• Avoid using products that contain alcohol and perfume;
• Take quick, lukewarm showers rather than hot baths that may rekindle itching;
• Dry the skin gently without rubbing;
• Avoid synthetic fibers and wool that may cause further irritation, better to prefer cotton;
• Drink plenty of water.

Cosmetic ingredients to be used

Use cosmetics with moisturizing and emollient active ingredients. These include the emollient body cream designed to moisturize, protect, soothe and improve the overall condition of the skin. Due to the natural active ingredient derived from Sichuan pepper, it helps fight the itchy feeling.

Plant oils and butters rich in OMEGA 3 and 6 are essential for skin integrity.