Chemotherapy and skin problems: What you need to know and how to take care of your skin

Chemotherapy is an effective cancer treatment that uses powerful medications to destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells. Unfortunately, these medications can also damage healthy cells, such as those in the skin. This can lead to various skin problems, which not only cause physical discomfort, but can also affect the quality of life of patients. Understanding these skin problems and how to treat them is crucial for optimal skin health during chemotherapy.

In this blog, we discuss common skin problems caused by chemotherapy, the underlying causes, and practical tips to alleviate the symptoms.

Common Skin Problems Caused by Chemotherapy

1. Dry Skin (Xerosis)

Chemotherapy can affect the sebaceous glands, leading to a reduction in sebum production and dry, flaky skin. This occurs in about 35% of patients undergoing systemic treatment. Symptoms of xerosis include itching, rough patches and a tight feeling, especially on the arms and legs. To alleviate these complaints, the use of moisturizing creams with ceramides and hyaluronic acid is recommended. These ingredients help to soften the skin, restore the moisture balance and protect the skin barrier against further dehydration.

2. Hand-Foot Syndrome (Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia)

The hand-foot syndrome is caused by certain chemotherapy medicines that leak from the capillaries and damage the skin cells in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This can lead to redness, swelling, pain and sometimes blisters. The hand-foot syndrome often occurs with the use of capecitabine and other 5-fluorouracil derivatives. To alleviate the symptoms, it is important to avoid excessive pressure and friction on the hands and feet, to wear comfortable shoes, and to regularly apply softening creams to the skin.

3. Folliculitis (Acneiform eruption)

Anti-cancer drugs such as EGFR inhibitors often cause inflammatory reactions in the hair follicles, resulting in a red, pimple-like rash that can spread to the face, neck, and sometimes the chest and back. This type of skin rash occurs in 43% to 85% of patients being treated with targeted chemotherapy. Mild cleansing products and creams with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as niacinamide can help to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage.

4. Hyperpigmentation

Chemotherapy can stimulate the production of melanin, resulting in dark spots on the skin, especially in areas exposed to the sun. This increases the chance of pigmentation spots and uneven skin tone. The use of products with ingredients such as arbutin, niacinamide, and vitamin C can help reduce these spots and even out skin tone. This is particularly important since chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation.

5. Nail Changes

Many patients experience brittle nails, discoloration, detachment, and inflammation around the cuticles (paronychia) due to chemotherapy. The use of moisturizing nail creams and avoiding traumatic activities can help strengthen the nails and prevent infections.

6. Photosensitivity

Cancer treatments can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to severe sunburn with minimal exposure. Particularly skin toxicities such as xerosis and rash can worsen through sun exposure. To prevent this, the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher with UVA and visible light protection) is recommended. Additionally, it is wise to avoid direct sunlight and wear protective clothing to prevent further skin damage.

7. Alopecia (Hair Loss)

Hair loss is one of the most visible side effects of cancer treatments and occurs because the therapies target quickly dividing cells, including hair follicles. This can lead to loss of head hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair. Although hair loss is often inevitable, the use of mild shampoos and hair care products without harsh chemicals can help to soothe the scalp and reduce irritation. It is important to properly protect the scalp from sunlight and other harmful influences.

Mechanisms behind skin problems during chemotherapy

1. Cellulaire toxiciteit

Cancer treatments often have a cytotoxic effect, which means they can damage not only cancer cells but also healthy skin cells. This leads to irritation, dryness and inflammation that make the skin vulnerable and reduce comfort.

2. Ontstekingsreacties

Chemotherapy activates the immune system, which can lead to inflammatory reactions such as redness, skin rash, and itching. These inflammations can make the skin sensitive and vulnerable.

3. Immuunmodulatie

The diminished immune response due to chemotherapy makes the skin more susceptible to infections and increases the risk of eczema and other chronic skin problems.

4. Oxidatieve stress

Chemotherapy increases the production of free radicals, leading to oxidative stress. This can weaken the skin barrier and contribute to premature aging such as wrinkles and a dull complexion.

FAQ – Chemotherapy

1. How can I treat dry skin caused by chemotherapy?
Using moisturizing creams with ceramides and glycerin or ‘heavy’ skin oils  can help restore the skin barrier and retain moisture, reducing dry skin and irritation. Want to know more about light and heavy skin oils, what are the differences? 

2. What is hand-foot syndrome and how can I alleviate it?
Hand-foot syndrome occurs when certain chemotherapy drugs leak out of the capillaries and cause damage to the skin cells of the palms and soles. Avoiding pressure and the use of soothing creams can alleviate the symptoms.

3. What can I do about skin rash from chemotherapy?
Use gentle cleansing products and creams with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as niacinamide to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

4. Why do I get dark spots during chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy can stimulate the melanocytes, also known as your pigment cells, which leads to overproduction of melanin, resulting in dark spots. Products with arbutin, niacinamide, and vitamin C can help reduce these pigment spots.

5. How do I protect my skin from sunlight during chemotherapy?
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and avoid direct sunlight, especially if you’re using chemotherapy drugs that make your skin extra sensitive to UV radiation.

How can Iconic Elements skincare products help you?

Chemotherapy can have a major impact on the skin, requiring specific care to alleviate symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and rash. Iconic Elements offers a range of specialized skincare products designed to support and restore the skin during and after chemotherapy. Our products contain carefully selected ingredients that nourish, protect, and help restore the skin. Here are some of our recommended products that can contribute to better skin health:

1. Natural Moisturizer Cream
Our Natural Moisturizer Cream is specially formulated to restore the skin’s moisture balance and strengthen the skin barrier, which is essential for dry, flaky skin caused by chemotherapy. The cream contains vegetable wax, ceramides and glycerin, ingredients that help hydrate, protect, and support the natural lipid layer of the skin. This not only reduces dryness, but also helps to alleviate irritation and make the skin more supple.

2. Calming Cream
The Calming Cream by Iconic Elements is enriched with soothing ingredients such as marshmallow root, ectoin, and avena sativa (oat extract), known for their anti-inflammatory and softening properties. This cream is ideal for skin that is irritated by chemotherapy and helps to reduce inflammation, soothe redness, and support the healing process. The use of this cream can help to make the skin more comfortable and alleviate itching and irritation.

3. Targeted Pigment Serum
Chemotherapy can cause hyperpigmentation, leading to dark spots and uneven skin tone. The Targeted Pigment Serum from Iconic Elements is formulated with powerful ingredients such as arbutin, niacinamide, and malic acid, which help to reduce pigmentation spots and even out skin tone. This serum aids in reducing unwanted discoloration.

4. Anti-Aging Cream
Our Anti-Aging Cream contains a combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, a potent mix of antioxidants that work together to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This cream is specifically designed to fortify the skin. The antioxidants in this cream help support the skin barrier and improve overall skin health, which is especially important for patients undergoing chemotherapy.

5. Tinted mineral sunscreen SPF30 The tinted mineral sunscreen with SPF30 offers comprehensive protection against harmful UV rays and HEV (High Energy Visible) light. This non-chemical sunscreen contains natural mineral filters that effectively protect the skin without causing irritation. Independently tested and certified, this sunscreen has achieved a level of protection that is even higher than SPF30, guaranteeing optimal protection. Perfect for daily use and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Why Choose Iconic Elements?

Iconic Elements combines scientifically-backed formulas with natural ingredients that are carefully selected to support the skin in a safe and effective manner. Our products are designed with a focus on sensitive skin, with formulas that minimize irritation while strengthening the skin barrier. We understand the unique challenges that chemotherapy brings and strive to offer products that provide comfort, recovery, and support during this difficult period.

In other words

Chemotherapy can cause various skin problems through mechanisms such as cellular toxicity, inflammatory responses, immune modulation, and oxidative stress. It is essential to proactively treat these problems to enhance patient comfort and quality of life. Iconic Elements offers a range of skincare products specifically developed to address these issues and support the skin during this challenging treatment period. By using the right products, patients can protect and restore their skin.

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