Klorane
Rene Furterer
Regimen Improvements
When receiving chemotherapy or radiation - do I need to change my daily skin care routine?
When a cancer diagnoses is confirmed - the last thing on your mind is, "How will this affect my skin?" While chemotherapy or radiation is a path for destruction to those harmful cells invading the body, it can also damage the healthy ones along the way. Skin can be left fragile and dry – stripped of all the healthy fats, oils and waters that once were. Because skin is the first protective line of defense against the sun, bacteria and infections, it's important to take extra cautionary measures during and after treatment.
- Opt for skin care products with minimal and only essential ingredients that ensure the safest rehydration and nourishment.
- Choose Seek products with high protection sunscreen to protect your now sensitized skin and use gentle, milky cleansers to avoid tugging or pulling on dry skin.
- skin care products that help alleviate these nagging side effects so you can focus on you.
Introduction to skin + cancer
Do’s and Don’ts When Starting Cancer Treatment
Do:
- Consult with your physician or dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin
- Ask your physician if your treatment has any skin side effects
- Keep a journal of any changes or side effects you may experience
- Make sure all your providers are aware of all your medications, prescriptions and treatments
Don't:
- Use harsh or exfoliating skin care. Your skin may become sensitive - it's best to use minimal ingredient formulations to avoid risk of irritation.
- Expose skin to the sun
- Wait to treat any abnormal skin conditions - it's easier to manage when the case it mild
Did You Know
Skin irritation and dryness were the two most troublesome side effects reported during cancer therapies.
Cleansing Care
Changing Your Routine
While undergoing cancer treatments, skin can be particularly sensitive - be sure to apply gentle skin care products to avoid exacerbating the side effects.
- Soap, in both liquid and solid forms, tend to dry out skin that can cause irritation. Look for soap-free gels, oils and cleansing bars that are gentle on the skin. This will help maintain your skin's natural pH.
- Wash mitts, sponges and loofahs can all irritate the skin, as can cotton pads used for make-up removal. Use clean hands to gently wash your face and body to avoid aggravating the skin. Pat skin dry and don’t rub or pull.
- Overly hot water strips the skin of moisture. Keep bath time short (no more than ten minutes) and water warm (93°F, maximum).
Did You Know
An emollient is an ingredient that increases moisture levels; look for essential fatty acids to help restore skin's barrier.
Maintaining Hydration
Upgrading Your Moisturizers
Chemotherapy and radiation have many side effects – dry skin being one of them. While dry skin may seem like any easy fix with just any moisturizer, discomfort may persist when using an ineffective cream. If left untreated, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture, which can lead to irritation, infections and even lack of sleep. Look for rich, restorative moisturizers that are free from fragrance and parabens, which are known to aggravate and disrupt skin’s natural microbiome.
A moisturizer infused with humectants and emollients keep skin hydrated by trapping in moisture to your skin. Follow these key regimen steps to restore hydration to your delicate skin:
- Apply creams when skin is still damp – it helps trap extra water
- Use a moisturizing mask one to three times a week for an extra boost of hydration
- Use a facial mist to hydrate on-the-go
Did You Know
Keeping your skin healthy requires multiple forms of sun protection.
Sun Protection
How The Sun Affects Skin
By using a high protection, daily sunscreen you can provide your skin with the defense it needs against damaging sun rays.
- UVA RAYS can penetrate through clouds and glass to reach deep into the skin causing skin to age
- UVB RAYS are at their most intense exposure from 10am to 4pm, causing sunburns and even skin cancer
Which type of sunscreen filter to:
- Physical filters, or mineral sunscreens, are primarily formulated with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide to scatter and reflect UV rays. Mineral filters sit on the surface and don't penetrate the skin, reducing the risk of irritation. Mineral sunscreens should be the last step in a skin care regimen – that is AFTER all your serums and moisturizers.
Did You Know
Provide surgical wounds with a healthy healing environment to minimize risks of infection and scarring.
Tips for Optimal Recovery
Provide surgical wounds with a healthy healing environment to minimize risks of infection and scarring.
Promote an Ideal Healing Environment
STOP THE BLEEDING
Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth, tissue or gauze.
CLEANSE THE LESION
Use water to help maintain a clean area around the wound.
USE A TREATMENT CREAM
Creams with antibacterial properties help promote healing.
BE PATIENT
Healing process takes time, it may take months and even up to a year.
FEED YOUR SKIN
Vitamins C and A, found in fruits and vegetables, are essential nutrients for the healing process.
Avoid Common Mistakes
DON’T DRY OUT A WOUND
Keeping skin hydrated speeds up healing and minimize potential scarring, so cover it with ointment and a bandage.
AVOID THE SUN
Protect any surgical scars with high protection sunscreen, formulated for delicate areas, to prevent hyperpigmentation.
DON’T PICK OR SCRATCH A SCAB
Scabs act as a natural protective band aid while skin heals underneath.