Protecting yourself from the sun during cancer treatment

During some cancer treatments, the skin may become more sensitive to the sun. Sunburn is more likely to occur and the risk of burning is increased, even with moderate exposure. Some dark spots may also appear. Because everything must be done to avoid this happening, what steps should be adopted during treatment? We're here to explain everything.

Taking care of your skin each day during cancer treatment

The effect of cancer treatments on the skin

Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy... The main types of cancer treatment can have an impact on the skin. Some molecules used in chemotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone therapy, for example, are photosensitising, i.e. they increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

It is, therefore, even more important than usual to protect yourself from the sun during the treatment period and also afterwards, for several months.

Prevent your skin from burning during and after radiotherapy

Protect yourself from the sun as much as possible

Sunburn can happen quickly, especially when undergoing cancer treatment: it can occur within the first few minutes of exposure.

Very dry areas treated with radiotherapy are particularly at risk of complications, which may include severe burns. Skin that has also been dried out by chemotherapy is also likely to react more easily, even if you have dark skin. Skin rashes and hyperpigmentation of exposed areas (small brown or purplish spots) or surgical scars are not uncommon.

From the start of your treatment, applying a very high level of sun protection should, therefore, become a habit, both indoors and outdoors, even when the sky is overcast. The windows in your home or car do not protect you from UV rays.

Combat dry skin during cancer treatment.

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Protect yourself from the sun while enjoying its benefits

Should you banish the sun completely during the treatment period? Mostly not, because it is good for morale.

Enjoy the benefits of the sun...

The sun is one of those little daily pleasures that it would be a shame to go without during cancer treatment. It helps regulate sleep, appetite, mood... And it strengthens the immune system because UV light allows the synthesis of vitamin D, which the body cannot produce by itself.

...in complete safety

How can you enjoy the sun without risking further damage to your skin? Is it safe? Only the team in charge of your treatment will be able to give you advice adapted to your situation, in the short, medium and long term. Because once the treatments are over, your skin remains fragile for several months.

Take care of your skin every day during cancer treatment.

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Wearing clothes that cover your skin...

It is best to go out early in the morning or at the end of the day when the sun is weakest. Even for a short walk, make sure you have as little skin exposed as possible. Clothing is the safest form of protection: choose loose-fitting, lightweight trousers and T-shirts or shirts made of natural materials to allow your skin to breathe. A hat and sunglasses with good coverage are also essential.

FRIENDLY (AND EXPERT) ADVICE

...and applying sun cream is the first line of protection.

On the areas that remain exposed (nose, ears, neck, back of the hands, skull, etc.), don't skimp on the sun cream. It must be broad-spectrum, i.e. protect against both UVA and UVB rays, with a very high SPF 50+. For skin that has been sensitised by treatments, choose a hypoallergenic, preservative-free and fragrance-free cream. You can find this type of cream in pharmacies and beauty stores. In the form of a stick or small tube, it can be easily slipped into a pocket or bag.

Good habits for protecting your skin

Choose your sun protection for sensitive skin carefully: it will be your ally throughout the treatment and in the months and years that follow. Cream, fluid, spray... Choose a texture that will make your life easier and that you will enjoy protecting yourself with. Remember to reapply the protection regularly (every two hours).