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Skin and Nail Changes
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"I was glad to learn that most skin and nail problems go away after treatment. For now, my nurse told me about a lotion to help my skin feel better." |
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To order free copies of this fact sheet, please call
1-800-422-6237 (1-800-4-CANCER). |
- Your skin is itchy, dry, red, or hurts
- Your nails are dark, yellow,
or cracked
- You develop sudden or severe itching
- Your skin has a rash or hives
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- Use only mild soaps that are gentle on your skin.
- Use lotions and creams. Ask your nurse when to use them.
- Don't use products on your skin that have alcohol or perfume in them.
Ask what products or brands you should use on your skin.
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- Try to stay out of the sun.
- When you are outside, always wear sunscreen and lip balm. Or wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a hat with a wide brim outdoors.
- Don't use tanning beds.
- It may help to take short showers or baths in warm water. Don't take long baths in hot water. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it.
- Dusting your skin with cornstarch may help. Put it in the folds of your skin such as under your arms, behind your knees, and under your breasts.
- Shave less often, or stop shaving if your skin is sore.
- Keep your nails clean and cut short. Check with your nurse before you get a manicure.
- Wear gloves when you wash the dishes, work in the garden, or clean the house.
- Check with your nurse for products that can help your nails.
- What problems should I call you about?
- What brands of soap and lotion are best for me to use?
- What should the SPF (sun protection factor) be in the sunscreen and lip balm that I use?
- Would a special oatmeal bath help my skin to itch less?
- What products can help my nails?
- When will these problems go away?
- After treatment, how much longer will I
need to use sunscreen?
Free Services to Learn More |
National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
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