A cancer diagnosis is often the worst moment of someone’s life. There’s the fear of an uncertain prognosis, the worry about how loved ones will cope, and the intimidating treatment options and confusing medical jargon to deal with all at once. It might seem that skincare is one of the least important things to consider and in many ways, it is. And yet, changes in skin is one of the most commonly reported side effects of cancer treatment, and one that can cause considerable discomfort and distress.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, chemotherapy can cause a number of skin conditions commonly including discolouration, sensitivity, rashes and extreme dryness. However, it’s not uncommon for patients to also experience breakouts and painful sores, too.
“I have worked with cancer sufferers and their skin through cancer charity Look Good Feel Better,” says Emma Coleman, dermatology nurse and founder of Emma Coleman skincare range. “The skin becomes pale, flaky often and in some cases the sufferers get dermatitis. This can be due to the treatment or certain types of cancers.”
Aside from the emotional toll of skin conditions and the negative effect they can have one self confidence and wellbeing, there’s also an increased risk of infection if the skin is broken and exposed to external bacteria. Of course, this is especially problematic during chemotherapy, which compromises the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infections.
"Chemotherapy drugs can commonly affect the skin," explains Consultant Dermatologist Dr Ophelia Veraitch at Cranley Clinic. "The skin is responsible for keeping out the bad—microbes, allergens, and chemicals—and retaining the good, like moisture, keeping skin soft and smooth. This is why it’s extra important to look after this skin barrier during chemotherapy."
Here, we asked the experts for five top tips to best care for your skin when going through cancer.
WEAR SPF
According to the experts, a high, broad-spectrum SPF is a must as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can make skin much more prone to UV damage. “Protect your body with a wide brim hat and long-sleeved clothing - especially around midday when the sun is at its strongest and try to limit the time you spend outside during peak sunlight hours and avoid tanning beds,” says Dr Veraitch.
AVOID DRYING INGREDIENTS
There is evidence to suggest that certain preservatives and foaming agents used in skincare, cosmetics and wash products (namely parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate), can irritate the skin and cause dryness. Opt for sulphate-free formulas, especially when choosing a cleanser, and choose one that contains high amounts of moisturising ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid instead.
Another ingredient to steer clear of is perfume. “Heavily perfumed products may further irritate a rash or cause dermatitis, itchy and flaky skin,” explains Emma. “Go scent-free completely to avoid any risk of reaction.”
Dr Veraitch agrees; “Avoid common allergens like fragrance, alcohol, preservatives, and botanical essential oils, which can be irritating or, even worse, cause an allergic reaction. Avoid harsh ingredients that remove skin lipids and lead to irritation and a broken skin barrier.”
STOP EXFOLIATING
“Exfoliating products remove skin build-up of dead cells and that process doesn’t happen when you’re going through a cancer treatment. So skip the scrubs, AHAs, and glycolic acid,” advises Dr Veraitch. It’s also a good idea to put any retinol products on pause, not only because they act as an exfoliant but also because retinol makes skin more sensitive the sunlight.
INVEST IN A GOOD LIP BALM
“The lips and mouth can also be affected by cancer treatment, so invest in a good lip balm,” says Emma. "Use one with antioxidants and Vitamins A, C and E, as these help to build new tissue”.
CHOOSE NATURAL PRODUCTS
You still want to look like yourself when going through cancer treatment and ILIA Beauty - the skin-centric beauty brand that led the evolution of clean beauty, creating safe, efficacious products - helps you do that. The clever brand was founded by Sasha Plavsic in Laguna Beach, California, and her products are meticulously-crafted and safe to wear when you want a natural alternative. Hero products include the In Full Micro-Tip Brow Pencil that creates thin, hairlike strokes that blend into brows like magic and the Multi-Stick, which gives you a healthy dose of colour when you need it most.
HAIRCARE REGIME
One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy is hairloss, which, understandably, many people fear. If you're going through chemo and looking for a hair loss solution, there's no better place than Jennifer Effie's Hair Solutions, where the team aim to give you control over who you choose to tell about your current health situation given your appearance remains the same.
“Our concept is to re-create how your hair looked before experiencing hair loss,” explains Jennifer. "We have designed a natural, undetectable, comfortable, high end hair replacement system using the best quality human hair that's easy to manage and looks and feels great. When facing hair loss due to cancer treatment, choosing a chemotherapy wig can be an emotional and personal experience. At Jennifer Effie's Hair Solutions, we understand how important it is to maintain your sense of self. That's why we offer real hair wigs that are designed to look and feel as natural as your own hair. Whether you're looking to replicate your usual style or explore a new look, our team is here to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect wig.
“When you buy a wig from us, you're not just purchasing a hairpiece—you're investing in your confidence and comfort. Our wigs are custom-made to ensure they fit seamlessly into your daily life, so you can focus on your journey to recovery without worrying about your appearance.”
If you're about to start chemotherapy, Jennifer has shared some simple tips to prepare your haircare regime:
- Use a Silk or Satin pillow case (we love the ones from Slip and recommend wearing a Silke London Hair Wrap around the house).
- Use Moroccan oil or argan oil to apply to the ends of your hair to add moisture when hair feels dry
- Always wash your hair standing up and was in a downwards stroking motion NEVER upside down and NO circular motions
- Use a shampoo and conditioner from the Aveda range. Jennifer recommends using the Damage Remedy Restructuring Shampoo and Conditioner range
- Only use a wide tooth comb (Afro comb)
- Always comb your hair gently, starting at the ends and working your way up
SEMI-PERMANENT MAKEUP
As well as the physical and emotional changes people experience when going through cancer, treatment can cause challenges to your features, leaving sparse eyebrows and eyelashes - and that's where semi-permanent makeup can help. Karen Betts is a titan in the world of Permanent Makeup - and it's clear she has an unwavering passion for helping people feel their most confident and beautiful. Karen has become a brow guru for women going through treatment thanks to her advanced Permanent Makeup & Microblading techniques, coupled with specialised tools and pigments created by Karen herself. Her semi-permanent method uses a handheld tool to create ultra-fine, hair-like strokes that mimic natural brow hairs, making it ideal for those with sparse or thinning brows.
