Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Skin Care During ChemotherapyEl cuidado de la piel durante la quimioterapia

Skin Care During Chemotherapy

Minor skin problems are common side effects of chemotherapy. These side effects occur because the treatment affects normal cells as well as cancer cells. To manage these side effects, try the tips on this handout.

Add baking soda to your bath to relieve dry, itchy skin.

Itchy, Dry Skin

Use baking soda. Add it to your bath water, and apply it instead of deodorant.
Take any medications for itching as prescribed by your doctor.
Take short showers or sponge baths.
Use tepid water; hot water increases itching.
Use a water-based skin cream. Apply it while your skin is still moist. Try to do this 2 to 3 times daily.
Avoid skin products that contain alcohol. This includes face cleansers, perfumes, and after-shaves.

Wear sunblock when you go outside.

Skin Discoloration

Ask your doctor for advice on skin color changes. In most cases, skin changes disappear soon after treatment ends.

Sun Exposure

Stay out of direct sun as much as you can.
Block the sun with SPF 15, clothing, or zinc oxide.
Wear a hat when you go outside.

Call the Doctor If:

You have a rash or hives.
You are wheezing or having trouble breathing.
Skin near a cut or rash swells, turns red, feels hot or painful, or begins to ooze.

Date Last Reviewed: 2003-08-14T00:00:00-06:00

Date Last Modified:

Contact us at Northwest Oncology & Hematology. You can reach us at 847.870.4100 (Rolling Meadows office), 847.437.3312 (Elk Grove Village office), 847.885.4100 (Hoffman Estates office), 847.842.0180 (Barrington office) and 847.577.1023 (Elgin office). For your convenience, you can also use our New Patient Appointment online form to schedule your consultation with us.

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If at any time you are unable to reach a physician after hours using our office phone numbers, contact the answering service directly at (847) 758-2846.