Skin and Nail Care

Many people associate chemotherapy treatments with hair loss and nausea. However, chemotherapy is also notorious for affecting the overall look and feel of skin, fingernails and toenails. In the process of slowing down the rapid cell growth of cancer cells, these drugs may also impact other rapidly growing cells in the body such as those in the hair, skin and nails. Not everyone experiences skin and nail changes during chemo - reactions vary based on the individual person and the type of drug. 

Common Skin Changes

Common skin changes may include dryness, itchiness, rashes, flushing/redness, peeling skin, sun sensitivity and hyperpigmentation. Receiving radiation therapy before chemo may cause skin to become red, blister, peel, or painful on the part of the body that underwent radiation therapy (called radiation recall). Most skin reactions occur within 2 to 3 weeks of chemotherapy initiation and resolve 10 to 12 weeks after stopping treatment.

Skin Care Tips for Chemo Patients

• Use only mild soaps, cleansing lotions, and creams

• Avoid products with alcohol or perfume

• Take short lukewarm baths or showers, avoiding hot water

• Pat skin dry with a soft towel, rather than rubbing vigorously

• If shaving causes irritation, rash, or dryness, avoid until skin is healed

• Keep home cool and humid

• Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids

• Apply lotion on damp skin to lock in moisture

• Alra Therapy Lotion is specifically formulated for chemo & radiation patients
• We recommend applying a mild moisturizer, such as Cardani Aloe Moisturizer on your face

• Be extra careful with the sensitive area around eyes and lips

• Avoid hydrocortisone creams

• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear a sun hat when going outdoors.

Nail Changes

The most common changes are cosmetic, impacting only the appearance of the nails. These includes dark, yellow, brittle, or cracked nails. Cuticles can also become inflamed and painful. Multiple lines and indentations may also appear in your nails, reflecting the different cycles of chemotherapy. It's critical to take care of your nails to prevent infections or injury.

Nail Care TIps for Chemo Patients

• Trim your nails short

• Wear gloves during household chores (e.g. washing dishes)

• Avoid professional manicures and pedicures (unless you bring your own tools)

• Do not trim your cuticles

• Avoid nail polishes with ingredients such as Dibutyl Phthalate, Formaldehyde, and Toluene. These three chemicals are known as "the Toxic Trio." Instead, opt for "3 free" nail polishes, such as OPI.

• Massage cuticle oil or cuticle cream into the cuticle area to prevent dryness, splitting, and hangnails

• Use a gentle remover free of acetone, ethylacetate, and other harsh solvents

• Nail strengtheners can help counter thin, brittle, splitting or soft nails. We like OPI products.
• Avoid artificial nails such as acrylics or other nail wraps because they can trap infection-causing bacteria

• Avoid changing your nail polish more often than is needed. Choosing a high quality nail polish will allow your manicure to last longer

Manicures & Pedicures

For sanitary reasons, it is recommended to avoid professional manicures and pedicures during treatments. You can still pamper yourself at home. Here are a few recommendations for home manicures and pedicures:

• Clean tools after each use
• Change emery boards regularly
• Use quality, long lasting nail polish
• Use professional quality nail strengtheners
• Wear a priming nail treatment under your nail polish to serve as a protective barrier between the nails and polish, and keep nails healthy. This will also make your nail polish last longer. 
• Secure your nail polish with a high quality top coat.

Using Nail Treatments

Dry and brittle nails are a common side effect of chemotherapy. Using nail treatments can help restore moisture to your nails and make them stronger. Nail treatments can either be used as a primer underneath nail polish, or worn by themselves. There are different types of nail treatments on the market to choose from: 

• OPI Natural Nail Strengthener - This treatment was formulated to increase strength and decrease discoloration of the nails. It serves as a protective barrier between the nails and nail polish.
• OPI Nail Envy Original Nail Strengthener - OPI Nail Envy Original is formulated with hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium to build and strengthen nails.
• OPI Nail Envy for Dry & Brittle Nails - This treatment adds moisture to the nails. It contains vitamin C and vitamin E to nourish dry, brittle, and discolored nails. 
• OPI Nail Envy for Sensitive and Peeling Nails - This formula was designed specifically for nails that are extra sensitve and peel apart with ingredients such as Vitamin E, Kukui Nut Oil, and aloe vera.
• OPI Infinite Shine Strengthening Base Coat - This moisturizing formula conditions and strengthens the nails before applying nail polish with antioxident-infused lotus flower oil and bamboo extract.