Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Radiotherapy, being one of the treatments, has its side effects, particularly on the skin.
Keep reading to find out helpful tips on how to deal with radiotherapy’s side effects!
Radiotherapy:
Radiotherapy is used in treating several different cases of breast cancer by breaking the DNA of the tumor cells, resulting in their damage and death.
But this cell damage and death is not limited to tumor cells only because surrounding normal tissues are also affected, especially skin cells. These side effects can range anywhere from mild redness, to blisters, ulcers and necrosis (death of cells). The medical term for this condition is Acute Radiation Dermatitis (ARD).
Skincare during and after radiation:
Knowing all this, it is very important to take good care of your skin after radiation therapy.
First and foremost, do not use any oils on your skin in the field of radiation as these can make burns worse.
Green tea and calendula extracts (NOT oil based) can be used safely on burned skin during radiation treatment. Aloe vera leaf gel can be used to soothe burned and damaged skin during radiation.
Many doctors find aloe vera helpful despite some studies that say otherwise.
To protect your skin from the sun, you should wear dark-colored clothings to protect you from UV light. Using sunscreen is also advisable, but make sure you discuss it with a health care professional first.
Warm water and mild soaps are preferable for skin cleansing. Some types of lotions or gentle deodorants may also be recommended to you.
The use of certain medicines, perfumes, or cosmetics should, always, be preceded by consultation with your care team.
To finish off, for every discomfort or change that you notice in the treated or any other area of your skin, consult with your medical team.
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About the Author: Dr. Donika Vata is a medical doctor from Ferizaj, Kosovo. She studied general medicine from University of Hasan Prishtina.
She has been writing about medical and skincare related issue in journals, social media websites, and books. She was working for some well reputed clinics such as Telehealth Pro- Online consultations, German Cancer Center, and AppLMD. Dr. Donika was also volunteering in the Covid-19 pandemic.
Currently, she is working as a medical doctor and researcher in a dermatology clinic.
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