The ripple effect of a cancer diagnosis stretches so far beyond our reach, touching more people than we could ever imagine. Yet, it often leaves us feeling incredibly isolated. And as much as our own minds are racing with questions, those who love us are also searching for ways to walk with us on the journey.

We’re shining a light on a valuable, free resource, created for those navigating their cancer journey, and their families. La Roche-Posay’s ‘Fight with Care’ initiative lifts the lid on all of the questions you and your family have, but don’t know who to ask. In particular, the side effects of cancer treatments, and how to navigate them.

‘Fight with Care’ is helping to raise awareness of the impact of cancer treatments on a patient’s life – which is so much more than just general health. From mental health, to work, nutrition, to the effect on skin, hair and nails it’s a treasure trove of important and often overlooked information. More than 80% of patients with cancer develop harsh skin-related side effects* linked to the treatments they’re undergoing. Some even stop treatment because of the extreme side effects**. 

La Roche-Posay’s ‘Fight with Care’ initiative is about simple education – just knowing that cleansing, moisturising and protecting the skin with the right products while undergoing treatment can keep it healthy and help you feel better in your own skin.

Answers To The Questions You Wish You Could Ask But Don’t Know How

So, let’s take a look at some of those questions you wish to ask, but don’t know how (or where to turn to for answers), with the help of La Roche-Posay’s 15-minute e-learning module.

1. What’s a good daily routine for my skin while I’m undergoing treatment?

It’s the same simple routine we should all be doing – cleansing, moisturising and sun protection.

More specifically, a cleanser with a physiological pH. Moisturise head to toe as treatments can weaken the skin and use good sun protection with 50+ SPF as your skin becomes particularly sensitive to UVA and UVB rays while undergoing treatment. If you’re having radiotherapy, the area exposed to the rays will become vulnerable to sunburn, so you’ll need to keep up your sun protection routine for the rest of your life.

2. I’ve had a flare-up of folliculitis and rash, what do I use?

While these may look like acne, they are completely different. La Roche-Posay recommends cleansing your skin with a soap-free cleanser and rinsing with lukewarm water. This should be followed with a non-comedogenic moisturising cream before a soothing and repairing skincare product on the pimples. Keep protecting your skin from the sun and avoid using exfoliators, peels or dermabrasion.

3. How can I look after my nails?

It’s best to keep things natural – avoid artificial nails and using polish as both can weaken natural nails. It is also best to avoid using nail clippers on your nails and cuticles as they can cause cuts that may lead to infections. Remember to look after your nails and hands with a good moisturiser to help dry hands and be soothe the skin.

“I never particularly used to care for my nails before falling sick and going through chemo. Now that I have looked after them during and after my treatments, I can really say that today, they’ve never looked so beautiful!” – Mélanie, 42 years old

 4. How do I keep my skin healthy during treatment?

While your body is going through a huge amount of stress, there are some small things you can do to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy while undergoing treatment. These tips and tricks double as self-care and can help you focus on nourishing and caring for your amazing body.

Here are some simple skin self-care tips while undergoing treatment:

• Moisturise your feet at night before you hop into bed. If you do it in the morning, your skin may become over-moisturised while you’re wearing shoes during the day.
• Make sure your shower temperature isn’t too hot, and avoid long, hot baths as well. It’s best to try and avoid chlorinated pools too.
• If you’re experiencing hair loss, make sure you’re moisturising your scalp.

La Roche-Posay’s 15-minute e-learning module guides both patients and their families via valuable insights into the journey ahead, from skincare tips to dealing with the weight of emotion during cancer treatment. 

Their research of 11,000 cancer patients revealed that simple, small skincare gestures – like cleansing, moisturising and using sun protection can make a huge difference.

Take La Roche-Posay’s 15-minute e-learning module to learn about how to provide holistic support for those undergoing cancer treatment, both as a patient and a caregiver. 

*Prof. Ivan Krakowski, Oncologist & Pain expert  President & founder of the AFSOS – **Boone SL et al. Impact and management of skin toxicity associated with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor therapy: survey results.