Managing Peeling Skin During Cancer Treatment

November 4, 2025

Gentle Skincare Tips to Protect and Heal

Peeling skin is a common side effect of radiation and chemotherapy. As treatments damage rapidly dividing cells, the skin’s natural renewal process is disrupted, leading to dryness, flaking, and sometimes painful peeling. While this can be uncomfortable, the right care can help protect your skin and encourage healing.

Why Does Skin Peel During Treatment?

Radiation therapy can cause radiation dermatitis, which often leads to redness, dryness, and peeling in the treated area. Chemotherapy may also thin the skin and make it more fragile. Together, these effects weaken the skin barrier, making peeling more likely.

Be Gentle with Cleansing

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating, as this can worsen peeling and cause irritation. Pat dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.

Focus on Hydration

Moisturizing is essential for peeling skin. Apply a thick, fragrance-free cream or balm several times a day. Ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and glycerin can help restore the skin barrier and reduce discomfort.

Protect Fragile Skin

Peeling areas are more vulnerable to infection and irritation. Avoid picking or scratching at peeling skin. Wear soft, breathable fabrics to prevent friction, and use protective dressings if recommended by your care team.

Avoid Irritants

Stay away from alcohol-based products, exfoliants, and fragranced skincare. Hot water, harsh detergents, and scratchy fabrics can also worsen peeling.

Kureology M.D.: Support for Peeling, Sensitive Skin

Kureology M.D. specializes in skincare products formulated for sensitive and compromised skin. Our nourishing solutions are designed to hydrate deeply, calm irritation, and protect the skin barrier—helping patients manage peeling and discomfort during treatment.

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Managing Peeling Skin During Cancer Treatment

Preventing Skin Infections During Cancer Treatment

November 11, 2025

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can weaken your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to irritation and infection. When the skin becomes dry, cracked, or broken, bacteria can enter more easily—leading to discomfort and delayed healing. Understanding how to care for your skin properly during treatment can help prevent infections and support your overall well-being. Why Skin Infections Are Common During Treatment Radiation and chemotherapy target rapidly dividing cells, which includes not only cancer cells but also healthy skin cells. This slows your skin’s ability to repair itself. As a result, small irritations or wounds can take longer to heal, and the immune system may not be as strong in fighting off bacteria. Keep the Skin Clean—But Gentle Cleanliness is essential, but it’s important to avoid over-cleansing. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh washcloths. Gently pat the skin dry with a soft towel to prevent further irritation. Moisturize to Maintain the Skin Barrier Dry and cracked skin is more prone to infection. Apply a soothing, oncology-safe moisturizer several times a day, especially after cleansing. Look for gentle formulas that contain ceramides, glycerin, or aloe vera. Moisturizing regularly helps reinforce the skin’s natural defenses. Watch for Early Signs of Infection Even minor irritation can quickly turn into an infection if not treated. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice: Redness that spreads or worsens Swelling or warmth in the affected area Pus, fluid, or scabbing that doesn’t heal Increased pain or fever Prompt attention can prevent small issues from becoming more serious. Avoid Irritants and Friction Wearing soft, breathable fabrics can help reduce irritation. Avoid tight clothing or materials that trap heat and moisture. Stay away from perfumed lotions or harsh chemicals that can disrupt the skin barrier. Kureology M.D.: Gentle Care for Vulnerable Skin Kureology M.D. specializes in skincare products for sensitive and compromised skin, including those undergoing cancer treatments. Our dermatologist-developed formulas help maintain hydration, reduce irritation, and support healing—providing an extra layer of protection against infection.