Drying out of the skin is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. Sometimes this is accompanied by itching, which usually stops when the treatment is complete. In the meantime, how can it be mitigated and relieved? Here are some tips.
This is common to almost all types of cancer treatment: from chemotherapy to radiotherapy, targeted therapies or immunotherapy, the radiation emitted or the molecules used cause dry skin and sometimes itching. Can you prevent this dryness? In any case, the effects can be limited by adopting the most gentle cleansing routine possible. Opt for cleansing oils or ultra-rich cleansing bars (especially not soap, which is too irritating), take lukewarm baths or showers (no more than 34°C) and use and abuse emollients that strengthen the skin barrier (but never apply them just before a radiotherapy session, always after). However, depending on the person and the treatment, these precautions may not be enough. What to do when itching occurs? And how can it be relieved?
Since the beginning of my treatment, I have been using a detergent adapted to my sensitive skin. I prefer to wear comfortable clothes that aren’t tight, but still look feminine!
Hélène
Relieving itching in case of irritation rashes or alopecia
Some irritation is linked to a specific type of treatment and requires special attention.
Acneiform rash
This is a common side effect and temporary in patients treated with targeted therapy. Spots resembling acne, hence their name, appear on areas rich in sebaceous glands (around the nose, on the forehead, the neckline, the upper back, etc.). If they become itchy and infected, you can supplement your medication and gentle cleansing routine with a repairing and protective copper and zinc cream.
Hair loss, either total or partial, can occur in patients treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted therapy. Just before and during hair loss, some patients may experience a tingling sensation on the scalp. How can you soothe the itching? By spraying the affected area with soothing thermal spring water and massaging it daily with an emollient.
Some small things can be very effective in supplementing your hygiene routine and soothing the itching caused by cancer treatments, starting with your choice of detergent and the materials that come into direct contact with your skin.
Ideally, choose a liquid detergent that will leave less residue, and no preservatives or scented softeners, which can be irritating. You can use half as much detergent and be careful not to overload the washing machine drum.
For your sheets and clothes, forget synthetic materials and opt for natural materials such as cotton or linen (but not wool, which can “ scratch ” the skin and increase itching). The lighter and looser your clothes, the better your skin will feel: you will prevent sweating which can aggravate the itching.
FRIENDLY (AND EXPERT) ADVICE
To relieve itching, the first piece of advice, above all, is to not scratch.
This is easier said than done. If the itching is severe, you can, for example, massage the affected area and then apply a compress soaked in thermal spring water. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, spraying regularly with thermal spring water to increase its soothing effect.
On larger areas, apply an immediate anti-scratch soothing concentrate, gently massaging it in with the flat of your hands. Leave it to rest and try to divert your attention from the itching with a massage ball or roller that you pass over your clothes (no direct contact with the skin, for hygienic reasons), while you read, listen to music, watch a series or a film...
And keep in mind that this unpleasant itching is temporary and will stop with your treatment.
The best practices to relieve itching
To improve the comfort of your skin and, therefore, your well-being during this particular period, the choice of products that you apply to your fragile skin is important. You can find the most suitable hygiene and care products specially formulated for very sensitive skin in pharmacies and beauty stores. For maximum safety, they should not contain any fragrances or preservatives.
Our solutions for relieving itching
Eau Thermale Avène skincare products designed to help you feel better about your skin
Thermal Spring Water Spray
Soothes - Restores the skin barrier - Calms
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