Protecting The Skin Of Children With Cancer – Being Parents

Children with cancer may have skin that is more sensitive to the sun, following treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

The skin can burn more easily  and the chances of developing a type of malignant lesion, such as melanoma, increase. Therefore, there are certain precautions to take when looking after the skin of children with cancer. Today we detail the measures to follow.

Effects of cancer treatments on the skin

Chemotherapy drugs cause redness, rashes, and different types of skin irritation. Radiation therapy is another procedure that can also cause similar signs and symptoms (as well as inflammation, skin surface peeling, and blisters) in the treated area.

Indispensable use of sunscreen on the skin of children with cancer

Children are dependent on the sun protection provided by their parents. Which makes them a very vulnerable group . There are different presentations of sun filters: aerosol, cream, gel and lotion. However,  in the case of children, the most effective is the spray because it is easier to apply.

The choice of sunscreen should be based on  a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB rays  as well as an SPF (sun protection factor)  equal to or greater than 50.

In addition, the expiration date of the product must be taken into account. Because, once opened, it lasts only a viable and functional year.

Constantly hydrate the skin

Children who have had to undergo therapeutic procedures such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy end up with a damaged skin surface. As a result,  the skin barrier is altered and must regenerate.

Correct and regular hydration is one of the most important steps in caring for the skin of children with cancer. There are even moisturizers on the market with sunscreen to combine the phases of skin protection.

Use wide-brimmed hats

Wearing wide-brimmed hats helps protect those parts of the body that you sometimes forget to put on cream. The neck, ears and scalp are better protected  if they are covered with a hat.

In addition, not only is it essential to apply sunscreen on sunny days, but also during  cloudy days which also let through the ultraviolet rays responsible for skin damage.

Choose hypoallergenic products

Hypoallergenic products have the characteristic of reducing the risks of generating irritations, allergies or intolerances.

This type of product is not only recommended for people with sensitive skin, but also for everyone. Indeed, no one is immune to developing an allergic reaction. Hypoallergenic creams, soaps or shampoos  do not contain perfumes or dyes that act as allergens on the skin.

Avoid intense sunshine hours

Children’s skin is more delicate than that of adults. Protection measures must therefore be more stringent. On the other hand,  the hours of intense and maximum radiation are between 12 and 16 hours.

It is therefore preferable to avoid exposure to the sun during this time slot and to opt for places in the shade. In addition,  babies under 6 months should not be exposed to the sun under any circumstances,  even with the application of a sunscreen.

Clouds or cloudy days give the false impression that there are no ultraviolet rays that can affect the skin. However, these pass through the clouds and cause the same damage as on sunny days.

In addition, you should know that  surfaces such as sand, snow and water reinforce the effects of the sun’s rays. Do not forget to renew the application of sunscreen every 2 hours.

Opt for optimal clothing

For the most delicate skins or those suffering from an alteration of the skin barrier, the choice of clothing is essential. It is therefore preferable to opt for  100% cotton clothes. In light colors to avoid skin contact with clothing dyes.

However,  more and more clothes are incorporating UV filters into their wefts. The UPF is the index of penetration of rays through clothing. In fact, the minimum UPF standard for clothing should be 40 to 50+.

Another protective measure to apply is to try to cover the skin area exposed to the sun with clothing.

The importance of protecting the skin of children with cancer

As we have just mentioned, it is essential to follow the measures of care and protection of the skin of children with cancer. Finally, even if these indications are particularly fundamental for children suffering from cancer, they are also fundamental  for all people who should take care and protect their skin.