For people living with lymphedema, healthy skin is an important part of managing the condition. Lymphedema can make the skin more vulnerable to dryness, cracking and infection, including cellulitis. A few simple skincare habits can help protect the skin and keep it comfortable.

Moisturize Every Day — but Check the pH

Keeping skin well moisturized helps prevent dryness and small cracks that can provide an entry point for bacteria. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free, pH-balanced or slightly acidic moisturizer. Products close to the skin's naturally acidic pH can help support its protective barrier.

A good moisturizer doesn't have to be expensive. Look for products that are:

• pH balanced or slightly acidic

• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

• Moisturizing without irritating sensitive skin

• Absorbed well before putting on compression garments

After bathing, gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing and apply moisturizer. Don't forget areas such as between skin folds and around the ankles and feet—but keep between the toes clean and thoroughly dry.

I use CeraVe intensive, Eucerin and Aveeno everyday.  When I was dealing with radiation burns, I used GlaxalBase which was given to me from the radiation nurses at the Cancer Center in Calgary. (Sandi).  

I use Patrick Curelle Hand & Body lotion daily. It is unscented, absorbs quickly and easily, contains no toxic solvents, and is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin. (Janine) 

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

A sunburn is more than uncomfortable when you have lymphedema—it is an injury to the skin that is best avoided. Use sunscreen and take precautions to prevent sunburns.

Consider a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, particularly if your skin is sensitive. Mineral sunscreens use ingredients such as zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to provide UV protection. Choose a fragrance-free formulation if possible, and remember that protective clothing and shade are also excellent forms of sun protection.

I like doTerra sun face and body roll on for sunscreen as I was getting a rash when I used regular sunscreens. (Sandi)

Your Daily Skin Check

Take a few moments each day to look at your skin. Watch for cuts, cracks, blisters, insect bites or areas that are becoming unusually red, warm or painful. Good skincare isn't simply cosmetic when you have lymphedema—it is an important part of protecting yourself from infection.

Moisturize. Protect. Keep cool. Check your skin.
Four small habits that can make a meaningful difference in living well with lymphedema.

Keeping Cool in Compression

Wearing compression is an important part of managing lymphedema, but during warmer weather it can sometimes feel hot and uncomfortable. The good news is that compression garment manufacturers are increasingly focusing on fabrics and technologies designed to improve breathability, manage moisture and help keep the skin more comfortable.

Manufacturers including Juzo, JOBST, medi, Sigvaris and others offer compression garments with features aimed at improving comfort in warmer conditions. Depending on the product, these may include breathable or lightweight fabrics, moisture-wicking fibres, improved airflow and materials that help move moisture away from the skin.

Some manufacturers are taking this a step further by introducing cooling technology directly into compression products. Juzo, for example, has recently introduced cooling compression wraps for the foot and calf that combine medical compression with materials designed to improve heat dissipation and provide a cooler feeling against the skin.

Other manufacturers are incorporating advanced moisture-management systems into their lymphedema garments. JOBST, for example, describes an advanced moisture-management system in its Confidence garments to improve wearing comfort.

These developments are encouraging because the best compression garment is one that provides the appropriate compression and that you can comfortably wear consistently. If heat has made wearing your compression difficult, ask your certified lymphedema therapist or compression garment fitter about newer breathable, moisture-managing and cooling options.

Different garments provide different levels of containment and compression, so cooling and comfort are only part of the decision. Proper measurement and fitting remain essential when choosing a compression garment for lymphedema.

BCLA does not endorse any particular manufacturer or product. Brand names are included to illustrate some of the evolving technologies available in compression garments.