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Psychology, family and everyday life

Changes in appearance: when the body changes

Treatment can cause hair loss, weight change, a puffy face from steroids, dry or discoloured skin, nail changes and marks from a catheter. This section explains how to live with these changes and look after yourself.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A woman in a headscarf looking at herself in a round mirror
Figure 1.Getting used to a changed appearance takes time

01Short answer

Most changes are temporary: hair usually grows back after treatment, and steroid puffiness fades as the dose comes down. What helps: gentle, fragrance-free skin care, comfortable clothing, a hat or scarf and short nails. You can use cosmetics, but when bleeding or infection risk is high, agree shaving and manicures with your team (“Nails: short, clean, no cuts”, “Low platelets: care in everyday life”). Tell loved ones how you feel. Changes can be especially hard for children and teenagers; explain them in advance.

02Simple explanation

Many changes are temporary.

Gentle skin care.

Shaving and manicures with your team.

Share your feelings.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: changes in appearance affect self-image; practical care and support make adjustment easier.

NCI: most people facing cancer feel anxiety, sadness or anger; support and treatment improve quality of life.

04What happens in the body?

Steroids

Puffiness of the face and belly is temporary; do not change the dose yourself.

Catheter

Choosing clothing protects the catheter and adds comfort.

Psycho-oncology

The field of medicine focused on the emotional needs of people with cancer.

Small steps

Breathing, movement, sleep and talking, a little each day.

05Support: four steps

Feel it, name it, share it, get help.

Feel — Allow your feelings.1FeelAllow your feelings.
Name — Say what you feel.2NameSay what you feel.
Share — Talk to someone close.3ShareTalk to someone close.
Get help — Reach out to a specialist.4Get helpReach out to a specialist.
AttentionListen to yourself.
ConnectionYou are not alone.
SupportA specialist is there.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
SteroidsPuffiness of the face and belly is temporary; do not change the dose yourself.
CatheterChoosing clothing protects the catheter and adds comfort.
Psycho-oncologyThe field of medicine focused on the emotional needs of people with cancer.
Small stepsBreathing, movement, sleep and talking, a little each day.

07Key terms

Alopecia
Hair loss.
Cushingoid appearance
Rounding of the face from steroids.
Psychologist
A specialist in emotional support.
Distress
Emotional strain linked to illness.

08Key points

  • It is temporary.
  • Gentle care.
  • Talk.
  • Feelings are normal.
  • Ask for support.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I wear make-up?

Yes, with clean brushes and your own products; ask if you have skin problems.

My weight changed; should I diet?

Not on your own; talk to your team.

Does seeing a psychologist mean I am "crazy"?

No. It is looking after yourself in a hard situation.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I wear make-up?

  2. My weight changed; should I diet?

  3. Does seeing a psychologist mean I am "crazy"?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Self-Image and Sexuality
  2. National Cancer Institute. Feelings and Cancer
  3. National Cancer Institute. Adjusting to Cancer
  4. National Cancer Institute. Support for Caregivers
  5. World Health Organization. Mental health: strengthening our response
  6. Lancet Oncology, 2011. Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorder in oncological, haematological, and palliative-care settings: a meta-analysis of 94 interview-based studies
  7. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2019. Distress Management, Version 3.2019, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Meditation and Relaxation for Your Mind and Body
  9. American Cancer Society. What Is Anxiety?
  10. American Cancer Society. Depression and Cancer
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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