Before I began my chemotherapy treatments, I was using Rodan + Fields skincare, alternating between the Redefine and Reverse regimens. I also used a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream to prevent and treat acne. When I began chemo, I was told to stop using anti-aging products on my skin and avoid products that had drying effects. I temporarily stopped using Rodan + Fields. For my cleanser, I used La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.
For moisturizing, I did not buy anything specifically for chemo patients but used what I already had, most often Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing lotion.
During chemo, I tried to avoid regular use of the benzoyl peroxide cream I had previously used daily. I did use it occasionally to spot-treat breakouts. I had fewer large pimples while going through chemotherapy but did experience more blackheads. I do not remember my face being painfully dry during chemo, but looking back at pictures, it did have a dry appearance.
At the recommendation of my dermatologist, I waited one month after my last chemo treatment to resume my previous skincare routine. I began slowly reintroducing anti-aging products (from once every other day, to once per day, to twice per day). Within a few months, my skin was back to normal. The pictures below show the changes in my skin the months following chemo.
If you have any other skincare products/tips that worked for you during or after chemo, please describe in a comment on this post.