From Forty-Seven to Sixteen: Battling Acne with Optune

How did I go from having the skin of a forty-seven-year-old to feeling like a teenager with acne all over again? Optune is amazing, and my experience with it has been good, but it does not come without its challenges. Acne with Optune is real—and it can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing.

One major issue is maintaining skin hygiene around the device. The mesh that contacts the skin, combined with activity and oily skin, can lead to acne, ingrown hairs, rashes, and more. To manage this, I use a few specific products that help keep my skin clean and blemish-free.

Why Skin Health Matters with Optune

When you wear Optune for eighteen hours a day, your skin takes a beating. The sweat, the warmth under the arrays, and the lack of ventilation all create a perfect storm for acne. If you are already sensitive to breakouts like I am, it can be discouraging. And unfortunately, it is not just about vanity—it can lead to infection, poor adhesion, and device alarms going off.

I wanted to share my skincare routine, not just to talk about breakouts, but to hopefully help others avoid them. I spent weeks experimenting with different wipes, products, and schedules. What I landed on has changed the game for me. If you are managing acne with Optune, this might help you too.

My Daily Routine with Optune

Washing your face can be tricky. I use a shower cap and avoid getting my face wet, though I do carefully wash my beard. I also adhere to a strict schedule, keeping the device on almost all the time, with two change days a week (Sunday and Wednesday). On these days, I try to relax, take a bath, or go for a swim in the pool. These breaks are not only for my mind—but for my skin, too.

On change days, I cleanse more deeply, give my scalp time to breathe, and apply any topical treatments to spots that need healing. On regular days, I do quick touch-ups to keep oil and sweat from building up under the arrays.

My Must-Have Skincare Products

1. Neutrogena Oil-Free Facial Cleansing Disposable Acne Face Towelettes

These towelettes are fantastic for removing dirt, oil, and makeup, making them perfect for acne-prone skin. I use them several times a day, and they leave my skin feeling amazing and clean. I find the best deal to be a two-pack for $12.43.

[Link to Product]

2. Noxzema Ultimate Clear Pads Anti-Blemish

These pads are my go-to for any breakout. They are strong and can dry out your skin, so I do not use them daily. However, they are excellent for tackling acne quickly, especially under the device edges where sweat builds up. I use them on my shoulders, back of the neck, and anywhere I feel irritation flaring up.

[Link to Product]

3. Cetaphil Face and Body Wipes, Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths

I use these wipes daily on my neck, shoulders, or whenever I need a gentle cleanse on my face. They are super gentle and perfect for maintaining a clean feel without irritation. When I get overheated or after a battery change, these give me that clean slate feeling.

[Link to Product]

What I Learned Along the Way

Wearing Optune is a commitment, and part of that commitment is self-care. I used to think skin irritation was just part of the deal, but it is not. You can prevent it. You can manage it. And no, it does not mean you are being shallow for caring about your skin while battling cancer. Your comfort matters. Your confidence matters.

Skincare is also a form of self-respect. It gives me control in a situation that often feels like I have none. So if anyone else is struggling with acne, irritation, or even just the self-consciousness that comes from feeling like your appearance is changing, I get it. You are not alone. And you deserve to feel good in your skin—even if your skin is healing, sensitive, or just plain fed up.

Other Skincare Tips for Wearing Optune

• Use a fan or cooling cloth at night to reduce sweat
• Keep your towel and pillowcase clean to avoid bacteria buildup
• Try not to scratch or pick at your skin—use pads or wipes instead
• Let your skin air out during battery changes if possible

Final Thoughts

Using Optune has been a positive experience overall, but managing skin hygiene is crucial to avoid issues like acne and rashes. By incorporating these products into my routine, I have found a way to keep my skin clean and healthy despite the challenges.

If you are facing similar issues, I hope these tips and product recommendations help you as much as they have helped me. Remember, acne with Optune is manageable—and you do not have to suffer through it alone. A little prep goes a long way in making the journey smoother.

Helpful Resources

• Optune Official Site
• Cetaphil Skin Care
• More from the JohnVsGBM Blog

Tags: Acne with Optune, Optune Skin Routine, Brain Cancer, GBM Tips, Skincare and Cancer, Scalp Care, Optune Experience, JohnVsGBM

Disclaimer: This blog shares personal skincare experiences while wearing Optune and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your doctor or care team for recommendations tailored to your skin. For any signs of infection or serious skin reaction, seek medical help immediately.