Skin feeling tight

[Guest Posts]

Since having a bout of cellulitis while undergoing chemo, early this year, I've had the constant feeling that the skin of my legs (from about mid calf) and feet is 'too tight'. I've tried every moisturiser going and am at present am using QV lotion. Chemo and radio all finished in March but this issue of 'tightness' just doesn't seem to be getting any better. I regularly exfoliate and moisturise, but 20 mins after slathering my legs and feet with cream/lotion, it feels like I haven't done anything. I have mentioned it to my GP, the Nurses, and when I've had checkups, but all I get told is to apply moisturiser! Any further suggestions as to what else I can do?

[Dr Sree Krishna]

Hi there,

Chemotherapy can lead to marked drying of the skin as it causes the loss of essential oils and water that normally helps keep our skin supple.

Although it can be a bit of a nuisance, I'd recommend trying ointments rather than creams/lotions. Ointments have a higher oil-to-water ratio than the latter, and tend to stay on the skin for longer. They are much more effective at hydrating the skin. Options include Epaderm ointment, Hydromol ointment and so on.

Hope that helps a little!

Sree