Skin and Nail Changes
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Let your doctor or nurse know if:
- Your skin is itchy, dry, red, or hurts
- Your nails are dark, yellow, or cracked
Call your doctor or nurse if:
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For minor skin problems:
Be careful what you put on your skin.
- 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. |
Protect your skin from the sun.
- 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.
Treat your skin gently.
- 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.
For minor nail problems:
- 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.
Questions to ask your doctor or nurse:
- 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?
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National Cancer Institute Cancer Information Service
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