It may be surprising to hear that the skincare industry has not adequately addressed the needs of over 80% of patients undergoing anticancer therapy, who are affected by skin irritations¹. These dermatological side effects can not only cause pain but also decrease patients’ quality of life and prompt them to slow down or even stop treatments. While categorised as “supportive” care, skincare in oncology therefore plays a crucial role in improving treatment adherence by enhancing body image and helping reduce distress.

When examining products targeted at cancer patients in the dermocosmetic market, the focus primarily revolves around sun protection and skin cancer. As consumers are becoming increasingly inclined towards preventative care, renowned brands such as Eucerin and ISDIN choose to display their dedication to skin cancer prevention, as depicted in Figure 1. They promote sunscreens and other prophylactic products specifically formulated for actinic keratosis and other forms of non-melanoma skin cancer. However, there is more to onco-dermatology (also often spelled oncodermatology), which refers to the diagnosis, treatment and management of skin conditions that develop in relation to cancer treatments. Dermocosmetic brands could do more to support patients across cancer types and throughout their entire treatment journey by offering specialised products beyond sunscreen, which is the focus of this insight piece.

* From top left to bottom right: Dermalogica x Skcin partnership to raise awareness of the prevention and early detection of skin cancer in the UK. Eucerin’s Actinic Control MD SPF 100 and SVR Laboratoire Dermatologique’s AK Secure DM Protect indicated for the prevention of actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancer. ISDIN’s commitment to eradicating skin cancer

Anticancer treatments often cause skin issues, affecting patients’ wellbeing and adherence

Anti-cancer treatments increase skin sensitivity and can cause a broad spectrum of acute side effects, as detailed in Figure 2. Common manifestations include dryness (xerosis), peeling, itching (pruritus), and changes in skin colour, which becomes red or darker. Treatments also impact the scalp and hair roots, typically leading to hair loss 2-3 weeks after initiation. This can in turn cause folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles resulting in the appearance of pustules (small red spots).

Areas exposed to radiation therapy commonly develop radiation dermatitis, an inflammation affecting up to 90% of patients⁴. Its severity varies, ranging from mild redness and irritation to more severe reactions involving blistering, moist desquamation (skin peeling) and pain. When followed by chemotherapy, radiation recall can also occur, a reaction mimicking these acute effects.

Chemotherapy can induce photosensitivity, skin pigmentation changes, rashes, and painful cuticles. Targeted therapies, like epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, frequently cause cutaneous reactions, including acneiform eruption and rash. These have been observed in over 80% of patients receiving these agents⁵.

These side effects not only subject patients to varying degrees of discomfort and pain, but also elevate the risk of infections if left untreated. Blisters and nails are especially susceptible, with common complications such as paronychia (infection of the fingernails and toenails folds)⁶. In particularly severe cases, Oncologists would have to reduce or even suspend anticancer treatments until the skin heals, potentially allowing for disease progression.

As a result, skin complications can greatly influence patients’ motivation to endure treatment due to a notable reduction in quality of life. Alterations in body appearance (such as hair loss, scarring, swelling), sensation (e.g., pain) and functioning (such as restricted movement) strongly affect both the physical and emotional well-being of patients throughout their cancer journey. These are associated with concerns, embarrassment, and psychological distress (feelings of exhaustion and helplessness/hopelessness), making it challenging to maintain a fulfilling social and professional life. These challenges are exacerbated by the simultaneous occurrence of other side effects, ranging from fatigue and anaemia to nausea and weight loss. In most severe cases, in absence of adequate care, patients can feel overwhelmed and choose to slow down or even stop their anticancer treatment⁷.

More HCP awareness is required to increase patient access to supportive care and oncology aesthetics