Chemotherapy is an effective cancer treatment that can also have some side effects. One such side effect is skin problems. The skin is the largest organ in the body, and chemotherapy can cause it to become dry, itchy, flaky, and sensitive.

Here are some tips to help protect your skin during chemotherapy:.

1. Keep Your Skin Moisturized

Chemotherapy can cause your skin to become dry and itchy, so it’s important to keep it moisturized. Choose a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and has no alcohol. Apply it to your skin several times a day, especially after showering or bathing.

Use lukewarm water instead of hot water to avoid drying out your skin. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it when you get out of the shower or bath.

2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s harmful rays.

It’s important to protect your skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing, such as a hat, long-sleeved shirt, and pants, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Avoid going out in the sun during peak hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest.

3. Avoid Hot Water and Long Showers

Hot water can be drying to your skin. Avoid taking long showers or baths, which can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use lukewarm water instead, and keep your showers or baths short.

Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel, which can irritate your skin.

4. Use Fragrance-Free Products

Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive to fragrances, which can irritate your skin. Use fragrance-free soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products. Avoid using perfumes, colognes, and other scented products.

Consider using gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergents and fabric softeners as well.

5. Avoid Tight Clothing

Tight clothing can rub against your skin and irritate it. Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of soft, breathable fabrics. Avoid wearing tight-fitting bras, underwear, or other clothing that can rub against your skin.

6. Be Gentle When Shaving

Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive, so it’s important to be gentle when shaving. Use a gentle shaving cream or gel, and shave in the direction of hair growth. Avoid using dull razors, which can irritate your skin.

Consider using an electric razor, which can be less irritating to your skin.

7. Keep Your Nails Healthy

Chemotherapy can also affect your nails, causing them to become brittle or discolored. Keep your nails healthy by keeping them clean and dry. Avoid biting your nails or picking at them, which can damage them.

Use a gentle nail polish remover, and avoid using nail polish or artificial nails, which can trap bacteria and fungi and cause infections.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your skin hydrated. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate your skin.

Consider using a humidifier at home, which can add moisture to the air and help keep your skin hydrated.

9. Talk to Your Doctor

If you experience any skin problems during chemotherapy, such as rashes, blisters, or infections, talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend medications or other treatments to help relieve your symptoms.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Finally, it’s important to take care of yourself during chemotherapy. Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Get plenty of rest, and try to manage your stress levels.

Exercise regularly, which can help improve your circulation and keep your skin healthy.