Skin, Strength and Self-Care: Navigating Skin Health During Breast Cancer Treatment and Mental Health Struggles

Johannesburg, October 2025 - With South Africa marking both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month this October, the spotlight turns to a lesser-discussed, yet deeply personal subject: how cancer treatment and emotional wellbeing intersect with skin health.

Skin, often considered simply cosmetic - is in fact a mirror to our physical and emotional states. During breast cancer treatment, as well as periods of emotional distress or anxiety, the skin can undergo significant changes that impact not only appearance but confidence and comfort too.

Dr. Judey, a leading biomedical scientist specialising in regenerative skincare, says it's vital to take a holistic approach to caring for the skin, particularly when the body and mind are under stress.

“Our skin responds to both internal treatments and emotional states. It’s not just about treating symptoms on the surface, but understanding what the skin is trying to communicate during illness or psychological strain,” says Dr. Judey.

How Breast Cancer Treatment Affects the Skin

Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or hormonal therapies often experience a host of dermatological side effects including:

• Extreme dryness and flaking

• Increased sensitivity and inflammation

• Hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone

• Radiation burns or skin thinning

• Loss of elasticity and skin resilience

“Treatments like chemotherapy target rapidly dividing cells, which includes those in the skin,” explains Dr. Judey. “This compromises the skin barrier and reduces hydration, making skin fragile, reactive and prone to infection or injury.”

Radiation therapy, especially in the breast and chest area, can result in burns, peeling and long-term textural changes.

The Emotional-Skin Connection: The Role of Mental Health

The impact of stress, anxiety and depression on the skin is well documented. Mental health struggles can contribute to or worsen skin conditions such as:

• Eczema and psoriasis flare-ups

• Acne or sudden breakouts

• Dullness, inflammation, and sensitivity

• Delayed wound healing

“Stress increases cortisol, which affects immune responses, sebum production and inflammation, all of which manifest on the skin,” says Dr. Judey. “Moreover, patients who are healing from surgery or undergoing cancer treatment often carry emotional trauma, which can be compounded by visible skin changes.”

For many women, especially those navigating breast cancer, the emotional impact of skin changes - hair loss, pigmentation, and scarring becomes deeply tied to identity and self-image.

Advice for Managing Skin Health Holistically

Dr. Judey recommends a gentle yet proactive skin routine, supported by mental health care and emotional self-awareness:

Hydrate and Repair

Use rich, non-irritating moisturisers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol to help restore the skin barrier. Avoid harsh exfoliants or fragranced products that can cause irritation.

Soothe Radiation-Exposed Skin

Aloe vera, calendula and peptide-based formulations can calm and aid recovery in radiation-damaged areas. “Products with growth factors and anti-inflammatories are key to supporting the skin’s regenerative processes,” says Dr. Judey.

Support from the Inside

A balanced diet, hydration, and adequate rest support both skin and mental recovery. “What nourishes the body also nourishes the skin,” she adds.

Mind-Skin Rituals

“Treating skin care as a moment of mindfulness, even just 10 minutes a day can make a huge emotional difference,” says Dr. Judey. “When you touch your skin gently and consciously, you’re reminding yourself that you deserve care and healing.”

Seek Professional Guidance

Both dermatological and psychological support are critical. A counsellor or psychologist, alongside a skin expert, can help patients manage both visible and invisible scars.

“Our mission is to ensure that patients don’t feel they have to choose between healing and self-confidence,” says Dr. Judey. “Every person, no matter their diagnosis deserves skin that is healthy, strong, and soothed.”

Healing is More Than Physical

October is a month of strength, reflection and advocacy. As we honour those affected by breast cancer and mental illness, let’s remember that skin health is an integral part of holistic wellbeing and caring for it is not a luxury, but a necessity.

About Dr. Judey Pretorius

Dr. Judey Pretorius is a highly respected Biomedical Scientist and product development specialist with extensive expertise in acute, chronic, and post-surgical wound healing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy.

She holds a Master’s degree in Genetics and Molecular Biology and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, complemented by additional qualifications in Dermal Aesthetics. Dr. Judey is also the visionary founder of Biomedical Emporium®, a cutting-edge biotechnology company dedicated to formulating advanced biological products and providing expert advice on regenerative medicine.

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