"Throughout my years in practice I've worked often with those who are undergoing, or have recently undergone, treatment for various cancers. Beyond reconstruction following breast cancer, the most common reason these individuals come to me is to address the skin issues that result from treatment. After all, of the numerous side effects associated with radiation therapy, chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, those that affect the skin are most common. Despite this, the topic of proper skincare in conjunction with cancer treatment is one that is grossly overlooked, in my opinion. Given that an estimated 1.5 million American's are diagnosed with cancer each year, the need for information on the subject is great!" Dr Ahmed Abdullah MD, FACS, FICS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Specialized Research on medical grade aloe vera.
Radiation Therapy
Those who've never experienced cancer may not be aware of the damaging effects these therapies have on the skin. Yet, when you consider that the role of cancer ltreatment is to ravage cancer cells, you begin to understand the impact they have on non-cancerous cells as well, including healthy skin cells. In the case of radiation therapy, the skin is a direct participant in the treatment, as radiation beams pass through its surface to reach the site of cancer. This inhabits the ability of the skin cells to regenerate. For this reason, as many as 95% of cancer patients treated with radiation therapy will experience a skin reaction.
My husband, was treated with 5 strong doses of radiation on his sacrum (from the front to back), and 1 strong dose, and 1 low dose of radiation on lymphs behind his heart, between lungs. With these radiation treatments, he didn't have any radiation burns on his skin at all, not a freckle. He was treated at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, noted as being the Top Radiology department in the USA. My mother for a very early caught, breast tumor, had spot radiation treatments that burned 1/2 her breast including under her arm, very dark brown. She was treated at a local small hospital. You could sure tell the huge difference between radiology departments and treatments. Something to look into, and perhaps travel to a location with better Radiology, as the Huntsman is in Salt Lake City Utah, and my mom was treated in Bismarck, North Dakota Cancer Center. Our son was treated full body radiation at
OU Medical in Oklahoma City OK, and also had no radiation burns. His was for Leukemia.
Commonly, individuals undergoing radiation therapy experience general skin irritation characterized by redness; itching; sensitivity or pain, similar to a sunburn; and even peeling and blistering. In fact, this reaction is so common that it has been given the name Radiation Dermatitis. Symptoms of radiation dermatitis range from mild to severe (as my mom experienced) and are often determined by the dose and frequency of treatment. While symptoms begin to lesson two to four weeks following therapy, for those undergoing regular treatment, radiation dermatitis is often an everyday part of the fight against cancer. My moms "burn" is still visible 2 yrs after treatments and she's cancer free.
Radiation therapy is also associated with Hyperpigmentation. Individuals with light skin tones may notice skin becoming reddened or taking on a tanned appearance, while darker skin tones will become increasingly darkened or ashen. Freckles and moles will darken as well. Generally, hyperpigmentation occurs specifically in those areas of the skin exposed to radiation beams.
Long term radiation therapy may result in Photosensitivity, that is, sensitivity to the sun's rays, especially at the site of treatment. This puts cancer patients at an increased risk of developing skin cancer -- not only during treatment, but beyond as well.
In extreme cases, patients undergoing radiation therapy may experience Radiation Burn. Evidenced by painful open sores and blisters, radiation burn mimics a chemical burn more than a sunburn. Radiation burns cause skin damage that is significant and may be visible long after cancer treatment has ceased. Doctors will generally address radiation burn and other skin complications related to radiation therapy with the use of a topical anti-inflammatory both during and after treatment.
Chemotherapy
Skin changes associated with chemotherapy are similar to that of radiation therapy. But, whereas in radiation therapy issues are generally isolated to the area(s) exposed to radiation beams, in chemotherapy, reactions in the skin tend to be systemic, as the treatment involves the delivery of cancer-fighting drugs to the body's circulatory system.
The severity of side effects is, of course, related to the dosage of chemotherapy drugs utilized and the method of delivery. Drugs delivered intravenously or via injection typically have a higher likelihood of causing changes in the skin than those delivered orally.
Among the common side effects of chemotherapy drugs are the following:
- Rashes, including acneiform, which mimics the appearance of acne, but, unlike acne, pustules contain no bacteria. Drugs likely to cause rashes include erlotinib and gefitinib.
- Overall Skin Dryness. This reaction is common in drugs such as fluorouracil and cetuximab.
- Hyperpigmentation, which may be seen as blotches throughohut the body or specifically along the body's venous pathways. Hyperpigmentation commonly accompanies drugs such as daunorubicin, busulfan, and bleomycin.
- Photosensitivity causes skin to burn more easily. Among the drugs that cause this reaction are methotrexate and vinblastine.
While the goal of those experiencing skin complications due to cancer treatment may be to eliminate the issue at hand, the larger intention should be to, instead, optimize the condition of the skin overall to best minimize the impact of skin reactions. Keep in mind, however, that the sensitve immune system of cancer patients must be taken into consideration when determining the steps that are taken to improve the skin and the products that are used. This is especially true for those who are undergoing chemotherapy, which decreases white blood cell counts, thus compromising the immune system.
While most skin complications subside upon the completion of cancer treatment, some skin issues may remain for months or even years. More concerning, still, is the reality that some skin damage will be permanent. In these instances, a consultation with a skincare professional, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, may be the most appropriate course of action.
Seek out Gentle Ingredients and Formulations
It is vital that the products used on the skin of cancer patients be gentle. For that reason, no harsh soaps sholdl be used. Additionally, be sure to investigate product labels for evidence of harsh ingredients, such as alcohol, acetone, camphor, sodium lauryl sulfate, abrasives, or excess fragrance.
Ensure Effective Moisturization
Because dry skin is a common annoyance for those undergoing cancer treatment, it's important to increase the use of moisturizers to avoid further complication. If left untreated, dryness may worsen, leading to cracking of the skin. Skin is our body's first line of defense against the outside world -- thus, when it becomes cracked, bacteria may be given opportunity to enter the body and could lead to infection and further complications.
Look for products that are rich in humectants, as they help the skin hold in its existing water content and improve its pliability. Generally, the more humectant-rich the moisturizer, the heavier it may be. These products are often marked as "night moisturizers."
Only the Essential Steps
We know the benefits of a skin regimen that cleanses, exfoliates, moisturizes and protects the skin. For those undergoing cancer treatment, however, it's advised against the use of exfoliation products.
While use of an effective daily exfoliant can certainly improve the health of the skin, those with a weakened immune system are limited in their body's ability to tolerate the acids utilized in such products. Additionally, because the body may not be able to properly generate new collagen, the benefits to this step are restricted somewhat.
Instead, implement the cleansing and moisturization steps both morning and night, with the application of additional moisturizer throughout the day as needed. Use of sun protection is vital because of the increased photosensitivity common in those undergoing cancer treatments. However, if open sores or a rash are present, it's best to consult your physician about the products you may utilize. In some cases, sun protection must be garnered via the use of protective clothing rather than use of a product with SPF.
Also be very careful on the use of essential oils. I was told by my husband's oncology team, nothing internal as there has been no studies on how it interacts with the cancer treatments. Externally for topical use to reduce discomfort, or help in healing skin was approved by his oncology team. Consult your own oncology team before any use of essential oils. As for quality and purity, there is a proven difference in essential oils, they are not created equally. There is only one tested more, reaching the standards of clinical studies and research institutions have set, that releases tests to prove it's purity, and that is the clinical grade of Ameo essential oils. http://ClinicalGradeEssentialOils.myameo.com
Consider the Benefits of Aloe
Aloe also comes in many qualities or grades of purity. Choose a product that is Medical grade Organic Aloe Vera, and as their base-main ingredient (listed first, not water).
- Aloe penetrates tissue
- Aloe acts as an anesthetic
- Aloe has microbial properties
- Aloe is an anti-inflammatory
- Aloe is proven to heal wounds
- Aloe is moisturizing
NeoLife GNLD
http://neolife.com/en-us/home/
Sponsor #32-260985
That's not to say you should buy an aloe plant for treatment of skin issues attributed to cancer treatment. As there's a difference between the puritfied and concentrated form of aloe that is used in medical practice and that which is found in the raw stalk of the aloe houseplant. Rather, it is beneficial to utilize skincare products that utilize a high grade of aloe in high concentrations. Look for products that list pharmaceutical-grade aloe as one of the first ingredients. But, as mentioned earlier, be sure to avoid these products if they utilize harsh ingredients, synthetics, not natural and safe. I highly recommend the skincare line of TreSkinRX, which does use an Organic, Medical, Pharmaceutical-grade Aloe Vera as a base to all their products. However, avoid the exfoliant EX3 for a cancer patient.
http://my.treskinrx.com/AmazingAloe
Optimize your Diet
In earlier blogs for nutrition and skin, as well as skincare and nutrition, I've pointed out these benefits and needs to improve the health of one's skin. These suggestions promote overall good health and are, therefore, beneficial to those undergoing cancer treatment as well.
Increased consumption of foods rich in antioxidants is one of the most important dietary improvements. As the "soldiers" of our cells, antioxidants work to prevent cellular damage. There are thousands of known antioxidants, which fall into several antioxidant categories including carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Foods rich in antioxidants include beans and other legumes; fruits, such as berries; nuts and seeds; and a vast array of vegetables. One whole food source supplied through the worlds most nutritious botanical, Moringa oleifera has 157,000 ORAC score (Antioxidant measured), in a pure form, carefully shade dried as to not damage the nutritional content through Zija International, as this company takes great measures to provide the highest quality Moringa oleifera (and again, not all moringa is equal). http://DebbieDennison.myzija.com
OR the supplements from the NeoLife company (link above).
Oncology Aesthetics
As emerging area of aesthetics, as evidenced by the increasing number of spas that provide such services, is that of oncology aesthetics. In oncology aesthetics, estheticians who are trained in techniques specific to cancer patients, provide spa treatments that encourage the release of endorphin's to reduce stress and anxiety, aid in pain management, and promote healing. Intended as an integrative therapy that complements medical treatment, oncology aesthetics is further intended to improve the self-image of cancer patients.
Oncology aesthetic treatments, which may include facials, reflexology, and body wraps, utilize gentle products that are free of fragrances and other irritating ingredients, in combination with a healing touch. Additionally, an emphasis is placed on a high level of sanitation to ensure the environment isn't harmful to the individual. Before beginning treatment, when you call to make your appointment, confirm that no exfoliants are used, and only aloe based products and gentle products are being used and your Esthetician is trained specifically with Oncology Aesthetic treatment.
Because oncology aesthetics is a new area of the field, much is yet to be learned about its benefits. However, at a minimum, such treatments may be helpful in improving the comfort level of the individual while boosting mood.
Due to the growing trend of hospitals adding complementary therapies to their offerings, issues such as the skincare needs of cancer patients may soon find that information is more readily available on the topic. In fact, some hospitals are beginning to offer oncology aesthetics in-house. In the meantime, however, it's essential for cancer patients to seek out the appropriate protocols to improve the health of their skin and, thus, enhance its ability to fight the issues that plague it during treatment. While this blog presented guidelines, I advise talking with your doctor about your unique skin issues and requesting referral to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon if more in-depth treatment is necessary.
No comments:
Post a Comment