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Your skin may gradually get pink, and start to feel warm. It may get dry and sore, and feel itchy.
How you can help yourself…
Be gentle with your skin, even if you think it doesn't look sore. If you do this right from the start of your treatment, you may be able to delay the onset of any side effects, or make them less bad when they do happen.
Follow these tips…
Washing
- Avoid long, hot showers or baths. Don't soak the treated area.
- Wash the skin gently. All you need is warm water and a mild, unperfumed soap such as baby soap or Simple Soap.
- Don't use bubble bath, salts, antiseptic, shower gel or body lotion on the treated area.
- Let your skin dry naturally, or pat it dry - don't rub. Avoid rough flannels and towels. Take care where skin is extra sensitive, such as in the groin and between the buttocks.
Sun
- Keep the treated area out of hot sun, and don't use a sun lamp or sunbed. Sun can damage the skin.
- Protect the treated area, even after your radiotherapy has finished. Use a sun cream of at least factor 25.
Clothes
- Loose clothes are best, because they allow air to circulate and they don't rub against the skin.
- Wear natural fibres such as cotton, if you can.
- Women should avoid corsets and tights. Skirts and stockings are better.
Creams for sore skin
- If your skin is sore, don't use any of your own creams on it. Your hospital doctor may give you a cream to use. Smooth it on gently.
Other tips
- Try not to scratch your skin.
- Keep your skin cool. Try to let the air get to it from time to time. You can do this easily when you are resting, for example.
- If your radiographers have made any coloured marks on your skin, don't wash them off. These marks are needed for your treatment.
