Beyond the Diagnosis: How Cancer Treatments Affect Your Skin—And How We Can Help
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy are powerful tools in the fight against cancer, but they can also take a toll on your skin, hair, and nails.
Many patients are surprised to learn just how much these treatments can affect the skin. For some, the first sign might be dryness, itching, or a rash; for others, it may be darkening of the skin, sensitivity, or peeling. Chemotherapy can cause the skin to become more fragile, dry, or even prone to acne-like eruptions. Radiation therapy often leads to redness, swelling, and tenderness in the area being treated, while immunotherapy can trigger rashes, pigment changes, or blistering that can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions.
Nail changes are another common concern—nails may become brittle, discolored, or even separate from the nail bed. Hair changes, including thinning or loss, can affect not just the scalp, but eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair as well. Some treatments also increase your risk of sunburn or skin infections, making careful sun protection and hygiene even more important. These skin side effects can range from mild annoyances to more serious issues that interfere with daily activities or cause discomfort, pain, or self-consciousness during an already challenging time.
At Advanced Dermatology, we know that taking care of your skin during cancer treatment is not just about comfort or appearance—it’s about supporting your overall health and well-being. Our providers have extensive experience helping cancer patients manage everything from mild dryness to complex rashes or infections. We’ll guide you on how to adjust your skincare routine with gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and rich, healing moisturizers to combat dryness and irritation. We can recommend or prescribe topical medications for rashes, itching, or inflammation, and suggest safe, effective sunscreens to protect your sensitive skin from UV damage. If nail or scalp issues arise, we offer solutions to minimize discomfort and promote healing.
Preventing skin problems before they start is just as important as treating them when they occur. We advise patients to moisturize regularly, avoid harsh or drying products, and practice vigilant sun protection— wide-brimmed hats and broad-spectrum sunscreen are your new best friends! For those undergoing radiation, keeping the treated area clean, dry, and protected from the sun can help prevent more severe reactions. We also encourage open communication with your entire oncology team, as coordinated care is key to catching and managing side effects early.
If you’re about to start cancer treatment, currently in treatment, or struggling with persistent skin issues, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment by calling or texting 847.459.6400. Our medical team at Advanced Dermatology is here to support you every step of the way, providing compassionate care and practical advice tailored to your unique needs.