SKINCARE DURING TREATMENT Skincare & Suncare tips with Dr. Maxwell Sauder by Suzanne Aranda.

Skincare During Treatment

Cancer and its treatment can cause a variety of changes in your skin. It may become extra dry and irritated, change colour and texture or be more sensitive to the sun. A healthy skincare regimen can help you manage and feel good in your skin.

Dr. Maxwell Sauder, Onco-Dermatologist, shares his top tips for impacted skin:

CLEAN, REPAIR AND PROTECT!

Stick to the skincare basics: Cleanser, Moisturizer and Sunscreen. The more products you use, the more you risk skin irritation.

Creams or balms will better hydrate your skin. For overly dry skin, apply ointment – especially on lips and hands.

Look for skincare products that are gentle, hydrating, hypoallergenic, fragrancefree and PH neutral. Products for eczema or sensitive skin are a good option.

Avoid alcohol-based products, and antiageing ingredients such as retinol, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or scrubs/ exfoliating products that may irritate or dry skin.

Regardless of your skin type, the sun can damage skin any time of year. Sun Protection

The sun can damage skin any time of the year. Sunscreen is a must for everyone, every day – whatever the weather. And radiation and chemotherapy treatments, as well as some medications, can increase susceptibility to sunburn and skin damage.

PHOTOGRAPHY COLIN GAUDET HAIR + MAKEUP SOPHIE HSIN (PLUTINO GROUP)

PROTECT, APPLY AND REAPPLY!

Choose sunscreens with UVA/UVB broadspectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher.

For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens may cause less irritation.

To avoid an ashy residue – look for easily-absorbed or tinted sunscreens. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure; reapply every 90 minutes.

Apply sunscreen daily and liberally to all exposed skin, including lips, ears, scalp, sides and back of the neck and the chest.

You are still exposed to damaging UV rays even in the shade. Stay out of the sun during peak hours (11 a.m.-3 p.m.).

Always wear a hat – preferably one with a wide brim of about three inches.

Apply sunscreen first if wearing makeup.