What causes skin reaction to radiotherapy?

The skin may become pink, red, darker, dry, itchy, sore, or more sensitive as treatment continues. Hair in the treated area may thin or fall out. Reactions are usually limited to the area receiving radiation, but the appearance and timing vary with the body site, dose pattern, treatment schedule, and individual skin response.

The reaction can become more noticeable for a short period after the treatment course ends because skin cells are still responding to the radiation. Your radiotherapy team can distinguish an expected reaction from infection, significant skin breakdown, or another problem.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild product recommended by your treatment team. Pat the area dry, avoid rubbing and scratching, and use only creams, dressings, deodorants, or other products that the team has approved for that site. Wear loose, soft clothing and protect the area from direct sun, heat, and friction.

Tell the team early if the skin becomes increasingly sore, moist, cracked, blistered, or difficult to cover. They may suggest a suitable moisturiser, dressing, or medicine. Read more about Radiotherapy and its treatment-area precautions.

Contact your radiotherapy team promptly for open or bleeding skin, spreading redness, pus, worsening swelling, fever, severe pain, or a reaction that prevents washing, dressing, eating, or moving normally. Do not stop scheduled treatment or apply an unapproved product without discussing it with the team.

Which skin changes are expected for my treatment area? Which cleanser and moisturiser should I use? When should I start or stop a product? What dressing is suitable if the skin opens? Who should I contact outside clinic hours?