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Understanding Cancer Skin Care Cancer treatment can significantly affect the skin, making proper skin care essential. As patients undergo various treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery, the skin often reacts with a range of adverse effects. These can include dryness, sensitivity, rashes, and more severe conditions like radiation dermatitis. Understanding how to manage these effects is crucial not only for comfort but also for maintaining overall skin health and quality of life. Proper skin care during cancer treatment involves recognising the specific needs of the skin at different stages of therapy. For instance, chemotherapy can cause the skin to become extremely dry and flaky, while radiation therapy might lead to redness and peeling in the treated areas. These conditions require targeted approaches, such as using mild, non-irritating cleansers and rich moisturisers that can soothe and hydrate the skin without causing further irritation. Additionally, patients may experience increased skin sensitivity, making it essential to avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other potential irritants. Protective measures, like using sunscreen to guard against UV damage and wearing soft, breathable fabrics to reduce friction, can also play a significant role in skin care during treatment. Incorporating supportive products specifically designed for cancer patients can further enhance skin care routines. Products like specialised creams for radiation dermatitis or hydration-promoting solutions like enterade® can make a noticeable difference in managing skin health. By addressing these needs proactively, patients can alleviate discomfort and maintain a better quality of life throughout their treatment journey. Common Skin Issues During Cancer Treatment Patients undergoing cancer treatment often experience various skin problems, including: Dryness and Flaking: Common with chemotherapy, dryness can lead to itching and discomfort.Radiation Dermatitis: A side effect of radiation therapy, causing redness, peeling, and irritation.Increased Sensitivity: Treatments can make skin more sensitive to sunlight and everyday products.Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots or patches on the skin due to certain chemotherapy drugs. Radiation Dermatitis: Causes and Care Radiation dermatitis occurs when radiation therapy damages the outer layers of the skin. Symptoms can range from mild redness to severe peeling and open sores. Here are some care tips: Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation. Moisturising: Apply rich, fragrance-free moisturisers to keep skin hydrated. Protective Clothing: Wear soft, loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction. Radiation Relief Creams: Specially formulated creams can help soothe and protect affected areas. Chemo Skin Effects and How to Manage Them Chemotherapy can cause various skin issues, including: Rashes: Some chemo drugs can cause itchy, red rashes.Dryness: Chemo can reduce oil production, leading to very dry skin.Nail Changes: Nails may become brittle or discoloured. Management Tips Hydration: Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skin products.Sun Protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect sensitive skin.Nail Care: Keep nails trimmed and avoid harsh nail products. Best Skin Care Products for Cancer Patients Choosing the right skin care products is crucial. Here are some recommendations: Gentle Cleansers: Look for mild, soap-free cleansers that won't strip the skin of natural oils.Rich Moisturisers: Use emollient-rich moisturisers to combat dryness and irritation.Radiation Relief Creams: Products specifically designed for radiation dermatitis can provide relief.Fragrance-Free Products: Avoid products with fragrances, as they can irritate sensitive skin.Enterade®: A specially formulated drink that helps manage the side effects of cancer treatment by promoting hydration and supporting digestive health. Tips for Better Skin Care During Treatment Here are some practical tips to maintain healthy skin during cancer treatment: Consistent Routine: Stick to a gentle skin care routine, even on days when you feel tired.Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip the skin of natural oils, opt for lukewarm water instead.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.Use Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can help prevent skin dryness.Pat Dry: After bathing, pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it to avoid irritation.Wear Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect sensitive skin from harmful UV rays.  Role of Nutrition in Skin Health Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining skin health. Incorporate these foods into your diet: Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, they help protect and repair skin.Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can improve skin elasticity.Hydration: Drinking enough water is essential for overall skin health.Enterade®: This drink can support overall health and hydration, particularly beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Emotional and Psychological Support Skin changes during cancer treatment can affect self-esteem and emotional well-being. Seeking support from counsellors or support groups can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Here are some tips: Counselling and Therapy: Professional counselling can help address emotional stress and provide coping strategies.Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding from others who are going through similar experiences.Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being.Engaging in Enjoyable Activities: Spending time on hobbies and activities that bring joy can help reduce feelings of fatigue and improve mood. Managing skin care during cancer treatment involves understanding common issues and using appropriate products and techniques. At Aurora Direct, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, supportive care products that make a difference in your journey. For more information about our products and personalised recommendations, visit Aurora Direct.

Most people in Australia will be touched by cancer at some stage in their lives, either personally or through family and friends. On the upside however, the survival rate for many types of cancer has increased by more than 20% in the past three decades, due to medical treatment improvements and new interventions brought about by research. As a major cause of illness in Australia, cancer has a substantial social and economic impact on individuals, families and the community. It was estimated that approximately 162,000 new cancer cases were diagnosed here in 2022, however every Australian’s journey with cancer is different. 1 in 3 Australian men and 1 in 4 Australian women will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 75. This is the harsh reality of a world with cancer, where support, over and above encouraging words and love, is valuable. So, when it comes to supportive care, what do you buy someone who has been diagnosed with cancer and about to start their treatment journey with chemotherapy or radiation would be: hand and nail care packs containing non-invasive, sensitive hand creams and lotions body wash, lip balm, facial cleanser and moisturiser scalp and hair care non-harsh soaps and serums. It’s important to avoid products that contain perfumes, colognes, aftershaves, parabens and other alcohol-based ingredients as these can cause irritation and issues for people undergoing cancer treatments. The Follact Restore Healthy Hair range provides a unique system that was designed specifically with patients undergoing cancer treatments and scalp cooling in mind. As treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation can cause nausea, our Enterade® advanced oncology formula ‘medical food’ in a refreshing orange flavour may help with symptoms such as diarrhoea, dehydration and limited absorption of nutrition, which can lead to increased fatigue and weakness. Enterade®’s formula uses select amino acids to rebuild the damage in healthy GI cells as a result of the treatments for cancer.   Another great idea is for the discerning woman who might be losing her hair through treatment – something that can be very traumatic for many – a beautifully designed headwear scarf in a variety of colours and designs. With compositions of bamboo and spandex, some being a turban-style, with or without a detachable tie, there are many ways to wear these as a comfortable headband. Cooling therapy constricts (narrows) the blood vessels below the skin where hair and nails grow. Experts think that cooling allows less of some chemo medicines to get to these areas. This may reduce the impact of chemo on these cells. Ice Cold socks and gloves which are reusable, are intended as cold therapy for persons requiring hot or cold therapy, and can make a great, practical gift. And of course, there are those gifts that do not need to be physically given to a loved one. By letting them know that you are there to support them can come in many ways, shapes and forms, such as: Volunteering your time is a positive and inspiring way to assist. Charity fundraising with a host of various events. Make a donation and helping cancer research Shave your head for cancer research is one of the most powerful ways to show your love and support for someone you love. If you are looking for the perfect support gift for a friend or loved one, Aurora Direct Gifting Care range is available on the website – which has products that provide both men and women with thoughtful gifts that show just how much you care. Visit www.auroradirect.com.au