Radiation therapy is one of the treatments used for various types of cancer. Although radiation is precisely directed at the area to be treated, it can also cause temporary changes in nearby tissues. Among the most common skin reactions is radiodermatitis, also known as radiation dermatitis.
Its intensity can vary considerably from person to person. In some cases, only slight dryness or a change in coloration appears. In others, the skin may show irritation, itching, peeling, ulcers, pain, or increased sensitivity.
For this reason, during radiation therapy, it is important to observe the skin, follow the healthcare team's recommendations, and report any changes, even if they initially seem minor.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute the assessment of an oncologist, dermatologist, or nursing staff.
What is radiodermatitis?
Radiodermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by ionizing radiation used during radiation therapy treatment. It occurs because radiation, in addition to acting on tumor cells, can affect healthy cells present in the treated area.
The American Cancer Society identifies radiation dermatitis as one of the most common skin side effects of radiation therapy. It can manifest as redness, irritation, inflammation, itching, blistering, or dry, peeling skin with a sunburn-like appearance.
Not everyone develops the same symptoms or with the same intensity. The reaction may depend on different factors:
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The area of the body receiving radiation.
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The total dose administered.
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The number and frequency of sessions.
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The individual sensitivity of the skin.
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The presence of folds or areas subjected to friction.
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The combination with other oncological treatments.
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The prior condition of the skin.
Therefore, it is not advisable to compare one's own progress with photos or experiences published online. Each treatment and each skin respond in a different way.
When can radiodermatitis appear?
Radiodermatitis does not necessarily appear after the first session. According to the NHS, changes such as pain, dryness, itching, color changes, or peeling can begin approximately one to two weeks after the start of radiation therapy.
In some people, the reaction progressively increases as sessions advance. The skin may also remain sensitive for weeks after the end of treatment, as healthy tissues need time to recover.
The American Cancer Society notes that many early side effects of radiation therapy usually decrease within weeks or months afterward, although certain changes in sensitivity or pigmentation may persist.
Symptoms of radiodermatitis
Symptoms may evolve throughout the treatment. Among the most common are:
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Redness or discoloration.
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Dryness and tightness.
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Itching or stinging.
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Sensitivity to friction.
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Sensation of warmth.
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Inflammation.
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Peeling.
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Pain that can range from moderate to intense.
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Appearance of blisters.
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Loss of skin integrity in the most intense cases.
It is important to inform the healthcare team from the first changes. It is not advisable to wait until the skin is very irritated to ask for help. An early assessment allows adapting care and monitoring for possible complications.
Grades of radiodermatitis
Healthcare professionals use clinical scales to assess the intensity of skin reactions. These classifications help decide what care or interventions each person needs.
However, the grades of radiodermatitis should not be used for self-diagnosis. The external appearance does not always fully reflect the condition of the skin.
Mild radiodermatitis
In mild cases, discrete redness, dryness, itching, or increased sensitivity may be observed. The skin usually remains lesion-free and intact, although it may feel tighter or uncomfortable.
At this stage, it is especially important to reduce friction and use only products authorized by the healthcare team.
Moderate radiodermatitis
The reaction may present with more intense redness, inflammation, pain, or peeling. More sensitive areas may also appear in skin folds or areas exposed to continuous friction.
At this grade, it may be necessary to adjust the hygiene, hydration, or protection routine following the instructions of the radiation therapy team.
Severe radiodermatitis
In the most intense reactions, blisters, wet peeling, discharge, or loss of skin integrity may appear. These manifestations require professional evaluation.
When the skin is open, the application of any product should be previously consulted with the medical team.
Serious reactions
Intense pain, bleeding, wounds with discharge, bad odor, increased temperature in the area, or the presence of fever may indicate a complication and require medical attention.
The American Cancer Society recommends reporting any skin changes to the oncology team to control pain, irritation, and the risk of infection.
Radiodermatitis in the breast
The search for information on radiodermatitis in the breast is especially frequent because radiation therapy is commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer.
In this area, dryness, irritation, pigmentation changes, and increased sensitivity may appear. The American Cancer Society notes that breast radiation therapy can cause skin irritation, dryness, and changes in skin color.
In addition, friction from bras, seams, or clothing in general can increase discomfort. Special attention should be paid to areas such as the fold under the breast and the armpit.
Unless otherwise indicated by the healthcare team, some simple measures can be helpful:
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Wear loose, breathable clothing.
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Avoid bras with underwires or rigid seams.
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Do not scratch or rub the area.
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Pat the skin dry gently.
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Observe skin folds daily.
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Report any pain, peeling, or wounds.
How to care for skin during radiation therapy
Care must be adapted to the instructions of the center where the treatment is carried out. Not all protocols are identical and some recommendations may vary depending on the irradiated area.
Wash skin gently
Hygiene should be performed with lukewarm water and without rubbing. Avoid harsh sponges, brushes, or rough towels.
The American Cancer Society recommends using lukewarm water and a mild soap, allowing the water to run over the area without scrubbing.
To dry the skin, it is best to pat gently with a clean, soft towel.
Avoid rubbing and pressure
Tight clothing, stiff fabrics, and seams can increase irritation. It is preferable to wear loose, soft, and breathable garments.
You should also avoid scratching the area, placing adhesive tape directly on the treated skin, or performing intense massages.
Do not apply heat or cold directly
Hot water bottles, electric blankets, ice packs, and other sources of heat or cold can increase skin sensitivity.
The American Cancer Society recommends not applying heat or cold to the treated area without first consulting the medical team.
Avoid aggressive hair removal
Wax, laser, and depilatory creams can irritate already sensitized skin. Shaving should also be discussed with the healthcare team, who may recommend an electric shaver in certain cases.
Protect the area from the sun
Skin undergoing radiation therapy can become more sensitive to sun radiation, even after the sessions have ended.
It is advisable to cover the area with clothing and ask the healthcare team when sunscreen can be used. When authorized, a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be chosen and applied according to professional instructions.
Can cream be used during radiation therapy?
In many cases, it is permissible to keep the skin hydrated, but there is no single recommendation valid for all patients. The product, frequency, and time of application should be discussed with the radiation therapy team.
It is not advisable to apply on one's own initiative:
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Perfumes or scented cosmetics.
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Exfoliants.
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Retinoids.
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Cosmetic acids.
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Essential oils.
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Deodorants on the treated area.
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Home remedies.
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Products with alcohol or potentially irritating ingredients.
The American Cancer Society recommends consulting before applying creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, powders, or depilatory products during treatment and in the following weeks.
When the skin has blisters, wounds, discharge, or intense peeling, it should be evaluated before applying any cosmetic product.
Dermocosmetic care for fragile skin
A cream intended to accompany the care of skin undergoing radiation therapy should prioritize hydration, comfort, and respect for the skin barrier. It should not be presented as a medicine or a treatment capable of curing radiodermatitis.
Within MEL13's skin care and health line, there are products formulated for sensitive, damaged, or fragile skin. The collection includes options aimed at deep hydration and skin barrier care.
MEL13 RX is a dermocosmetic cream developed to accompany the care of damaged skin subjected to aggressive treatments such as radiation therapy. According to its official data sheet, it contains melatonin, coenzyme Q10, glycerin, and squalane, and is intended for use before, during, and after treatment when the healthcare team deems its use appropriate.
The combination of melatonin and coenzyme Q10 in skin care is part of MEL13's scientific and dermocosmetic approach. In this context, these ingredients are integrated into formulas aimed at antioxidant care and skin protection.
When to consult the healthcare team
Any significant changes should be communicated to the medical team. Consultation is especially important when:
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Irritation increases rapidly.
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Blisters appear.
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The skin begins to break open.
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There is wet peeling.
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Discharge or bleeding appears.
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The area has a bad odor.
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The pain is intense or persistent.
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The skin is very hot or inflamed.
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Fever appears.
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A product causes intense stinging or worsens symptoms.
During radiation therapy, a seemingly small doubt deserves to be consulted. The skin is also part of the treatment process and requires careful monitoring.
Frequently asked questions about radiodermatitis
What is radiodermatitis?
Radiodermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by the radiation used during radiation therapy. It can cause dryness, redness, itching, sensitivity, peeling, or blistering.
When does radiodermatitis appear?
It can begin during the first weeks of treatment, although the exact timing varies for each person. The NHS indicates that some skin changes appear between one and two weeks after the start of radiation therapy.
How long does radiodermatitis take to disappear?
Many reactions gradually improve after radiation therapy ends, but the recovery time depends on the intensity of the reaction, the treated area, and the individual characteristics of the skin. Some changes in pigmentation or sensitivity may persist.
What cream can be used for radiodermatitis?
There is no single universal cream suitable for all people or for all grades of radiodermatitis. Only a product authorized by the healthcare team and adapted to the condition of the skin should be used.
Can cream be applied before a radiotherapy session?
It depends on the center's protocol and the product used. The radiotherapy team should indicate if it can be applied, in what quantity, and how far in advance. It is not advisable to improvise, no matter how harmless the cream may seem.
Does MEL13 RX treat radiodermatitis?
It should not be considered a medicine or treatment for radiodermatitis. MEL13 RX is a dermo-cosmetic cream aimed at caring for damaged or fragile skin. It can be part of a supportive routine before, during, or after radiotherapy when authorized by the healthcare team.
