How to Care for Skin During Radiation

Radiation is one of the best treatments we have in fighting and curing cancer. While modern radiation treatments have fewer side effects than their predecessors, treatments may still irritate the skin of radiation patients.

If you or a loved one are undergoing radiation treatments, there are ways to take care of the skin during and after treatment that will help avoid or alleviate negative side effects.

By observing the following suggestions and communicating closely with your cancer care team at SERO, together we can care for your skin during radiation.

Modern radiation treatments are non-invasive, efficient, and so precise that they usually spare the surrounding organs from any negative side effects. However, the powerful radiation beams that target cancer cells first have to pass through your skin, and this may have an effect on it.

Many patients experience some changes to the skin at the site of their radiation. This may include:

• Discoloration (pink or tan at first, then darkening or reddening as treatment progresses)
• Swelling
• Dryness and flaking
• Tightness
• Sensitivity
• Itchiness
• Rashes or blisters

Usually, these side effects are at their worst within two weeks of your last treatment. The side effects to your skin may extend several weeks past your treatment.

Immediately alert your care team if other symptoms arise, including:

• Bleeding
• Drainage
• A temperature of 100.4F or higher
• Chills
• Increased pain

By caring for your skin during radiation, you can reduce these side effects. Doing so can also decrease sensitivity when you undergo treatments and help your skin heal quickly once your treatments are finished.

During and following treatment, communicate with your care team about your symptoms. They may be able to recommend other treatments or products that can help alleviate negative side effects.

In the weeks following your radiation, your skin may continue to exhibit side effects like dryness, sores, or itchiness. It is important to follow the recommendations above as your skin heals.

In the months and even years following your treatment, even as those symptoms dissipate, it is still important to care for your skin.

• Monitor your skin for changes. If you notice any changes, such as discoloration, a rash, or moles, you should contact your doctor.
• Continue to practice safe sun protection. After radiation, you are more likely to develop skin cancer, particularly at your treatment site. That’s why it’s important to continue to protect your skin with sunscreen, protective clothing, and sun hats.

At SERO, our cancer care teams, including our 30 board-certified radiation oncologists, are dedicated to helping every patient navigate their cancer care as comfortably as possible. This includes helping you identify the best steps for protecting and treating your skin before, during, and after radiation.

If at any point during your treatment you have questions about skin care or anything else, please contact a member of your cancer care team.