Skin Care During Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy damages cancer cells and healthy cells nearby. You may have side effects (changes) where your body is being treated.

Radiation side effects can:

• Start part way through your treatment
• Stop a few weeks after your treatment ends

If you have any side effects, or need to ask a question, talk to one of your health care team members:

• Radiation Oncologist (Cancer doctor)
• Oncology Nurse
• Radiation Therapist

Radiation passes through your skin. This may cause changes to your skin in the treated area. Your skin may feel:

• Warm
• Itchy
• Look red (like a sunburn)
• Might peel

• Wash using warm water and mild soap
• Pat dry with a soft towel
• Do not rub, scrub, or scratch
• Do not use any creams or powders unless told to by your radiation team
• Wear loose clothing
• You can use deodorant until your underarm gets red or sore
• Cover the area from the sun, cold and wind
• Use an electric razor to shave in treated area

When your treatment is finished, the changes to your skin may get worse before they get better. This is normal. These changes will peak in 7-10 days. Follow this skin care guide until your skin feels better.

From now on, the skin in the treated area will always sunburn more quickly than the rest of your body. Protect it from the sun by keeping it covered or using a sunscreen – SPF 30 (UVA/UVB) or higher. You can begin to use sunscreen once your skin has healed.

Use this resource for your information only. It does not replace medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare professionals.  

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Website: www.cancerwaterloowellington.ca