the effect external radiation therapy has on your skin is similar to the effect that exposure to the sun can have. you can expect to see some changes in coloration. the skin may look red sunburned or tanned. it may also appear swollen or blistered. your skin may also become dry flaky or itchy. or it may start to peel. the key to dealing with skin irritations is to be gentle with your skin: don't wear tight clothing over the area that's being treated. don't scrub or rub your skin. to clean it use a mild soap and let lukewarm water run over it. avoid putting anything hot or cold on the treated area unless the doctor tells you to do so. ask your doctor before using any type of ointment oil lotion or powder on the skin. check with your doctor about using corn starch to help relieve itching. stay out of the sun as much as possible. protect the treated area by wearing a hat and long-sleeved shirt. ask the doctor about using sunscreen if you must be out in the sun. if radiation therapy is being used to treat breast cancer try not to wear a bra. if that isn't possible wear a soft cotton bra without underwire. don't use any tape gauze or bandages on your skin unless the doctor tells you to. your skin irritation should improve starting a few weeks after therapy ends. but when it heals your skin in the treated area may be a darker color. and you will still need to protect your skin from exposure to the sun for up to a year after radiation therapy.
what kind of skin problems can radiation therapy cause?