Do’s and Don’ts of Skin Care
Do
- Dry the skin well, especially between the fingers and toes.
- Treat even the smallest injuries to your skin. Clean the area well, cover if necessary although observe the area closely for any changes.
- Take great care great when cutting nails – use nail clippers.
- Protect your skin against the sun, the effect of the sun on any part of your skin is likely to increase the swelling.
- Take all possible precautions against being scratched or bitten by pets and other animals.
- Use effective insect repellent, when at risk of being bitten by insects (e.g., on holiday, in the garden)
- Take great care when removing hair. An electric razor is less likely to damage your skin.
Do not
- Push back the cuticles.
- Offer the affected limb for blood samples or blood pressure.
Things to avoid
- Avoid taking hot baths or showers as this will increase the swelling.
- Avoid burning the skin.
- Avoid restrictive clothing or tight jewellery.
- Avoid sauna baths as these increase the swelling.
Looking after your skin daily is vitally important.
Build a daily skin care routine
Avoid using soaps which dry your skin when washing. Ask your therapist for advice.
Dry your skin thoroughly, and check all the skin as you do so, especially between the fingers and toes. Any redness of the skin my indicate the start of an infection.
Use non-perfumed moisturising cream or oil every time after drying.
Apply the moisturiser with slow, gentle, upward stokes, starting around your shoulder if your arm is swollen.
You will find it easier to apply the moisturiser in the evening when you have taken off your sleeve or stocking; it is more difficult to put on the sleeve straight after applying moisturiser or after a bath
Method for applying skin cream or oil
This is a method for looking after your skin. It should not be confused with the simple lymphatic drainage technique.
Use an upward stroke as indicated and finish with a final downward stroke to smooth down the hairs on your arms.
