SACT side effects: Skin and Nail changes
Your treatment may cause rashes, skin irritation, skin discolouration, dry itchy skin or skin sensitivity to light.
On this page
Skin care advice
- Protect your skin and head from the sun. Use an SPF 50 and a wide-brim hat to cover your scalp
- Keep your skin well moisturised
- Avoid perfumed products
- Avoid products that contain alcohol
- Avoid wet skin shaving
- Wear gloves for household chores and gardening
Call the Acute Haematology Oncology Unit if you experience any of the following symptoms:
-
- Pain, redness, swelling, numbness or tingling, skin peeling, ulcers or blisters on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet
- New or worsening rash
- A rash that is bleeding, weeping or bruising
- Skin that is itchy or painful
- Broken skin that is not healing or your skin is swollen, red or hot to touch
- Are concerned about any skin changes
For further information or advice go to Cancer Research or Macmillan
Nail changes
Some treatments can discolour the nails on your hands and feet. Your nails may also become more brittle.
Nail care advice:
- Use an emery board instead of cutting your nails
- Consider a strengthening nail cream, hand cream or cuticle cream
- Avoid wearing false nails
- Painting nails with a dark or clear varnish can help to protect them