Skin rash self-care advice

Report your problems to your CNS or telephone the Acute Oncology help line on 0783 114 7653 if you develop redness, swelling or small sores on the palms of your hand or on the soles of your feet.

Avoid very hot water.

Avoid tight fitting clothing (e.g. gloves, socks), belts and shoes.

Use sunscreen or protective clothing when out in the sun, even on cloudy days. Sunblock with physical barrier such as zinc oxide may be needed. Avoid tanning booths.

Use moisturisers regularly. Moisturisers prevent water loss by layering an oily substance over the skin to keep water in or by attracting water to the outer skin layer from the inner skin layer. Substances that stop water loss include petroleum, mineral oil, lanolin and silicone products.

Avoid:

• Perfumed products
• Bubble bath
• Soap, particularly perfumed soaps.
• Soap-free cleansing bars, these can be drying and potentially irritating.

Extreme weather conditions can worsen and cause dry skin reactions (hot and sunny, cold and windy). Wear gloves in cold weather. Where possible, wear cotton clothes next to the skin, rather than wool, synthetic fibres or rough clothing

If you develop any blisters, do not break them open but contact your CNS or telephone the Acute Oncology help line.

Complementary and alternative therapies may help, but always consult with your chemotherapy/Oncology team about it.

If your symptoms persist please contact your chemotherapy care team.