Modern cancer treatments can cause temporary or permanent changes to the skin, hair, nails and body image. The severity and duration of these changes depend on the type of treatment, the dose administered and each individual's characteristics.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can affect rapidly dividing cells, including those of the hair, skin and nails. Common effects include:

  • Partial or complete hair loss (alopecia).
  • Loss of eyebrows, eyelashes and body hair.
  • Dryness and increased skin sensitivity.
  • Darkening of the skin or changes in pigmentation.
  • Nail fragility, discolouration or other nail abnormalities.

Hormone Therapy

Hormonal treatments used in some breast and prostate cancers may cause:

  • Dry skin.
  • Hair thinning.
  • Itching or skin irritation.
  • Mild nail changes.

Targeted Therapies

Some targeted therapies can produce specific skin-related side effects:

  • Acne-like skin rashes.
  • Severe dryness.
  • Itching.
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
  • Changes affecting the nails and cuticles.
  • Hand-foot syndrome with certain treatments.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy may cause:

  • Skin rashes.
  • Dry skin.
  • Itching.
  • Changes in skin pigmentation.
  • Vitiligo in some patients with melanoma.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy affects only the area being treated and may cause:

  • Redness.
  • Darkening of the skin.
  • Dryness or flaking.
  • Itching.
  • Localised hair loss within the treated area.

General Skin Care Recommendations

Current supportive oncology guidelines recommend introducing preventive skin care measures from the beginning of treatment.

  • Daily Skin Care:
    • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, breathable clothing, preferably made of cotton.
    • Avoid skin friction and injury.
    • Maintain adequate hydration according to your healthcare team's recommendations.
    • Use moisturising creams that are free from perfumes and alcohol.
    • Avoid irritating or exfoliating skin products.
    • Take short showers using lukewarm water.
    • Pat the skin dry gently without rubbing.
    • Avoid abrasive sponges or brushes.
  • Sun Protection: During and after treatment it is recommended to:
    • Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
    • Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen.
    • Wear a hat, protective clothing and sunglasses.
    • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
  • Radiotherapy Skin Care: For areas receiving radiotherapy:
    • Use only products recommended by the radiotherapy team.
    • Avoid excessive rubbing or friction.
    • Do not apply home remedies or potentially irritating products.
    • For facial treatments, follow specific advice regarding shaving and skin care.
  • Hair Removal: If the skin is sensitive or currently being treated:
    • Avoid hot wax and chemical depilatory products.
    • Use only gentle hair-removal methods if necessary and approved by your healthcare team.
  • Hand and Nail Care: Cancer treatments may cause nail fragility, colour changes, pain or inflammation around the nails.
    • Recommendations
      • Keep nails short and clean.
      • File nail edges gently.
      • Apply moisturiser to the hands and cuticles regularly.
      • Wear gloves when cleaning, gardening or carrying out household tasks.
      • Choose comfortable, well-fitting footwear.
      • Seek medical advice if you develop pain, inflammation or signs of infection.
    • Nail Cosmetics: Conventional nail polish may be used if the nails are intact. However, acrylic nails, gel nails and aggressive