Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Skin

Common side effects of radiation therapy to the skin (radiation dermatitis) can consist of the following:

• Redness, dryness, itching, tingling, peeling, sensitivity, and weeping.
• Hair loss in the treatment area, dry/wet desquamation, decreased sweating, edema (swelling), ulcerations, bleeding, formation of scabs.

Daily Skin Care for Radiation Dermatitis

• For washing, bathing, and showering, use lukewarm- not hot water.
• Use a mild, soap-free, non-irritating cleanser. (i.e. Ivory or Dove)
• After wetting your skin and lathering, simply rinse off the cleanser and gently pat dry with a soft towel. Do not rub or scrub.
• Be careful while washing not to erase any marks drawn on your skin for treatment purposes. If this should happen, be sure to tell the technician at your next session.
• Apply ointments or creams recommended by your Radiation Oncologist after bathing to soothe, moisturize, and help heal any area that is red, sore, irritated, dry, or itchy. You may use it as often as needed throughout the day but avoid applying 4 hours prior to radiation therapy treatment.
• Ask your doctor before using any soaps, deodorants, lotions, or topical medications on the affected areas. Avoid perfumes, cosmetics, and talcum powder.

Choosing Clothing: Comfort First

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, breathable soft clothing – preferably 100% cotton. Avoid wearing tight clothing on the treatment area that can rub or irritate the skin.
• Avoid heavily perfumed laundry detergents and starch.

The Gentle Touch

• If you need a bandage, choose a nonstick bandage or telfa pad to apply to the treatment area. Do not use adhesive tape or self-sticking bandages on the area being treated.
• Avoid using heat or cold devices on your skin such as heating pads, heat lamps, hot water bottles, hot or cold packs, or ice packs.
• If your skin is itchy, avoid scratching. Ask your doctor if hydrocortisone cream is right for you. Keep your nails short to avoid accidental scratching.
• If you must shave the area, do so only with an electric razor but ask your doctor first. Do not use any hair removal products, preshave or aftershave products or hair coloring products.

Outdoor Safety

• Protect the treated area from the sun with light clothing. Ask your doctor if you can use a non-irritating, broad-spectrum sunblock for extra protection. Protect the skin from sun daily after therapy.
• Avoid exposure of your skin to harsh weather conditions such as very cold temperatures, strong winds, and extreme sun.
• Avoid swimming or whirlpools during your treatment period, unless you have your doctor’s permission.
• If you swim in chlorinated or salt water, rinse off immediately afterwards.

Extra Precautions
Alert your doctor if you experienced any of the following:

• Redness
• Increased dryness
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Rashes
• Drainage or discharge

Ask you doctor for any other questions or concerns pertaining to your treatment.