Hi, I’ve been having EC-D chemo and had my last Docetaxel on 6th Feb. With every cycle of chemo I’ve had flushing of my face and neck for a few days, which the nurses put down to the steroids. With the Docetaxel I had a bit more lingering redness but it’s worse with this last cycle. My cheeks are very red, dry and tight. They feel like I’ve been out in a snowstorm if you know what I mean. I can’t decide if it’s a reaction to a face wash I hadn’t used in a while, or if it’s a late side effect of the Docetaxel. I’ve been using loads of moisturiser but it’s not really easing. If I’m going out in public I’ve been using green primer and a light foundation but then my face is sore when I’m washing the makeup off. Today I’m staying indoors with no makeup to give it a break but I’m not sure if this is “normal” for Docetaxel or something I should be contacting the nurses about. Also I’ve been taking cetirizine daily since the day of chemo. Previously I’d stopped after a week each time but I’ve kept going this time due to this redness.
That sounds really uncomfortable . I’d contact your treatment team for some advice there may be something they can prescribe to ease it ?
It is listed as a possible side effect on BCN website Docetaxel (Taxotere) | Breast Cancer Now
I think I have the same. My face has got more red as the Docetaxel has gone on. It used to disappear and I put it down to the steroids initially, but now it’s there every day, particularly in the evening. The doctor suggested antihistamines might help if it’s a reaction, but it really feels like I’ve been out in the wind and it’s dry and sore, regardless of moisturiser. I had my last round on Friday so hoping it settles eventually. But maybe the nurses can offer some advice?
Yes that sounds exactly the same as mine. I’m not going to phone today as it’s Sunday and it’s not really urgent but I’ll maybe give them a call tomorrow. It’s really drinking in the moisturiser so I’m just going to keep slapping it on today and drink more water. Unfortunately water still tastes a bit weird though!
I had the same chemo last year. The same symptoms as well. I was told it was mainly due to steroids. Didn’t wash my face for a couple of days, no moisturizer or make up.
The recommended products were very helpful with restoring my skin. I still use them.
La Roche Posay:
Cicaplast baume B5+spf50
Lipicar Syndet AP+cream wash and body balm
Also Dr. Hart+ Cicapair tiger grass repair cream🙂
I found that I developed dry, red and sore skin on my face with Docetaxel. Instead of my usual moisturiser I applied MooGoo that I got as a free gift and it was brilliant.
I had the same from Docetaxel in 2023, i think it was from the steriods, my face felt like it was burning. Try Dermalogica calming water gel (ultra calming). Its really cooling to the face. I am still using this as helps me now whilst going through hot flushes. Your skin should calm down once you have finished chemo , take care x