What you need to know —
Care of Skin During Radiation Therapy

 

 

 

 

 

 

Skin changes are common side effects of radiation therapy. The reaction looks and feels like a sunburn. The skin in the area being treated may become red and dry, tender, and itchy. Most often skin reactions are temporary. These skin reactions are NOT burns, although they superficially resemble a bum. The importance of this distinction is that the treatment that should be used for these reactions is much different than that which is effective for burns. You are encouraged to talk to the nurse or radiation oncologist before using any treatment for radiation skin reactions prescribed by another physician. Your skin heals soon after treatment is completed. Remember, only the skin in the area being treated is affected.

During and immediately after radiation treatment, you can help protect the skin in the area being treated by following these guidelines:

1. DO NOT apply ANY lotion, powder, cream, ointment, perfume, after-shave, deodorant, cosmetics or other commercial products to the area being treated. Use of these products may worsen the expected skin reaction. Your physician will prescribe the best medications and treatments for your skin.
2. Avoid very hot or very cold temperatures on the treated skin. For example, do not apply ice packs, heating pads, or heat-producing lotion to the skin. Immersion of the treated are in a very hot bath or hot tub should be avoided.
3. Protect the skin in the area being treated from direct, strong sunlight. Wear protective clothing over the area and/or a hat if your head is being treated. After your treatments are over, use a sunscreen that contains the highest concentration of a sun-blocking chemical. You will always need to take special care of this area, including avoiding intense, prolonged sun exposure.
4. Keep the skin dry and clean. You may shower using Lever 2000 soap. Pat the area dry. Do not rub or massage the skin in the treatment area.
5. Shaving can be harmful. If shaving in the area being treated is necessary, use an electric razor.
6. Expose the area being treated to the air as much as possible. Wear loose fitting, cotton clothing.
7. Consult with the nurse about the use of tape, Band-Aids, and dressing on the area being treated. Usually, these should be avoided.
8. DO NOT apply anything to the skin before your daily treatment so that the therapist’s can thoroughly evaluate the condition of your skin.
9. Report any skin changes or reactions to the nurse.
10. Finally, check with the nurse before you discontinue any of the above practices.