Make Up and Skin Care Tips during Radiation

Skin changes would naturally and expectedly happen during radiation therapy. Each body has different response to treatment. The probability and strictness of a skin reaction relies on:

• The skin area being operated
• The type and amount of radiation
• Believe or not chemotherapy is also included

After couple of more weeks of radiation, the skin may turn pinkish or tanned. While the treatment continues, the patients’ skin may turn red or very dark. Patients’ skin may also experience dryness and itchiness and appear flaky. Some people develop a rash type or blisters in the treated area. These blisters may open up and peel. If the generate skin reactions, it will most probably improve 3 to 4 weeks after the skin is treated.

Taking Care of Your Skin:

Keeping the skin clean:

• Bath or shower daily using lukewarm water and a mild, non-fragrant soap
• Clean the skin well and dry with a spongy towel
• While washing, be tender with the skin on the areas being operated. Avoid using a washcloth or a scrubber or brush
• The tattoo marks received prior therapies are permanent and will not wash off. It could get rid with mineral oil when the radiation oncologist says it’s fine
• Avoid using alcohol on the skin area being operated
• Always keep moisturizing the skin

Keeping Your Skin Smooth:

Skin reactions happen due to travelling of external beam radiation travels through the skin to reach the area being targeted for therapy. Radiation can cause skin reactions. The equipment used for radiation therapy does not generally cause huge damage to skin as some people experience any skin reactions with radiation therapy.

• Follow the bathing instructions recommended universally
• Use products that will not irritate the skin or interfere with therapy.
• Avoid using aftershave or hair removal products for skin on the treated areas
• Use an electric shaver instead of razor to prevent cutting of skin on the treated areas
• Defend treated areas from rubbing, pressure or pain by wearing loose clothing
• Avoid putting anything hot or cold (like heating pads or ice packs) on the treated areas
• Do not press or rub pimples
• Avoid scrubbing off any markings until after the last treatment is over
• Rinse well after swimming in a swimming pool because chlorine may cause dryness to the skin 

Caring For the Nails:

Here’s for nails:

• Avoid approaching salons for any treatment on nails to invite infections
• Use clipper for nails and then file. Avoid cutting those cuticles or skin.
• Do not use artificial nails that trap bacteria.

Conclusion:

It is essential to report skin reactions to the healthcare team. Mild skin reactions do not generally require treatment. Severe reactions may need medical treatment or radiation therapy may be delayed to help the skin improve. Skin irritation may continue for several days after treatment ends, hence special care is required for a short period after radiation therapy. Some people use best cancer skin care products which are made by the cancer patients for the cancer patients. Ensure from radiation therapy team on when other products can be used.