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There are some facts about breast cancer that a lot of people don’t know. One of them is that when you’re being treated for breast cancer, your skin, fingernails, and toenails may change in appearance. This is due to the side effects of treatments, which can include chemotherapy, hormone-based therapies, targeted therapies, and radiation.
As one MyBCTeam member wrote, “Can anyone comment on nail discoloration or loss of nails during chemo? I noticed my two thumbnails are developing a purplish half-moon shape at the nail bed near the cuticle.”
Another member said, “I ended up losing both my big toenails.”
If you’re undergoing breast cancer treatment, it’s important to understand the skin and nail changes that you may experience during your journey. If you notice any concerning changes, you should speak with your healthcare provider.
During breast cancer treatment, a person’s skin pigmentation (coloring) may change and appear darker than normal. It may look like a sunburn or severe bruising.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to chemotherapy, which can include a sudden or severe rash, hives, or a burning sensation. Nails may stop growing during chemotherapy treatment and then start growing again, producing ridges or lines from side to side.
Radiation therapy or surgery in the targeted breast area may also cause skin problems like swelling, dryness, peeling, and itching. You may develop sores, which can become wet, painful, or infected, so it’s important to take note of any skin changes immediately and talk to your healthcare team so you don’t develop an infection.
Nails on the fingers and toes also go through a variety of changes, including:
Other side effects include discharge (fluid) from under the nail that may be accompanied by pain, an unpleasant smell, or both.
These changes are temporary, but keep in mind that after treatment, it can take about six months to regrow a fingernail and up to 18 months to regrow a toenail.
One MyBCTeam member said, “As your immune system improves, your nails should regrow underneath. I have lost toenails before, and they took about four to six months to regrow.”
Certain targeted therapies, such as those focusing on epidermal growth factor receptors and vascular endothelial growth factor molecules, may also cause skin changes, such as rashes and nail changes.
Although changes to skin, fingernails, and toenails may not be avoidable due to your specific chemotherapy or radiation protocol, there are several things you can do during your treatment journey to make the process more comfortable and reduce the risk of nail or skin infections.
You can try to stave off skin and nail changes by diligently using a moisturizer before beginning treatment. In addition, wear high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin, and make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
Once you start treatment, check your skin regularly for possible changes. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your healthcare team right away.
To avoid further nail problems, don’t apply artificial nails until you’ve completed your breast cancer treatment. To protect your nails from splitting, your physician may recommend water-soluble nail polish or a professional manicurist, but you should always check with your healthcare team before putting anything on your nails.
Keep your nails short so they don’t catch or break. Never cut cuticles — instead, use cuticle remover and keep them soft with cuticle cream so they aren’t as likely to break.
When washing dishes or the car or performing any other cleaning activity that requires water and harsh detergents, always wear gloves to protect your skin and fingernails. Too much exposure to water can lead to fungal infections of the nail bed.
To cleanse your skin, use a mild soap or cleanser, followed by a lotion or moisturizing cream. Avoid extremely hot or cold water, and rinse with lukewarm water.
To keep skin soft and moist, apply a mild moisturizer to damp skin and pay attention to the delicate area surrounding the eyes and lips.
In addition, try to avoid products containing hydrocortisone and other hormones unless specifically directed to do so by your doctor.
Dry, itchy skin may be a side effect during chemotherapy or radiation. If the areas that are treated itch, avoid scratching the skin. Ask your oncologist, radiation therapist, or dermatologist what topical creams they recommend to alleviate the discomfort. Use only products that have been approved or prescribed by your healthcare team.
During chemotherapy or radiation therapy, limit your time in the sun. If you must be outside, ask your physician which type of sunblock you should wear. To protect your skin, wear hats, sunglasses, and loose-fitting tops with long sleeves.
During radiation therapy, avoid using cold packs or heating pads that may cause extreme temperature changes in treated areas.
Temporary pigmentation changes, such as discoloration or darkening, may occur during treatment. If you choose to use cosmetic concealer to cover these areas, consult with your oncologist about which products are safe.
Deodorants with nonmetallic ingredients are typically recommended, but before your session with your radiation therapist, avoid wearing any kind of cosmetics, perfumes, or deodorants on areas that will be treated.
Many cancer care teams recommend that you avoid shaving in areas where you’ll be treated until your skin recovers from the therapy. However, in cases when you must shave, an electric razor is recommended.
In addition, your radiation therapist may suggest what type of undergarments you should wear, such as a cotton bra with no underwire and an elastic band.
If your skin continues to be irritated after your radiation treatment has come to an end, ask your radiation therapist or oncologist to recommend a moisturizer and sunscreen. Remember to immediately alert your healthcare team to any possible signs of infection or changes in skin color or texture.
Also, it’s always a good idea to choose the right foods for breast cancer treatment or recovery.
On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you experienced nail or skin changes from breast cancer treatment? Let others know in the comments below.
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A MyBCTeam Member
Thanks for caring but finally the dark color is fading away and my nails are growing back