Skin Care Instructions

• When washing in the treatment area, use warm water, avoid scrubbing, and pat dry.  You may use any mild soap such as Dove or Simple Soap.
• We ask that you do not apply anything to the skin in the treatment area unless instructed to do so by your oncologist or another member of the treatment team.  This particularly applies to:  plasters, deodorant, cosmetics, scented talcum powder, and any ointment or creams.
• Do not apply heating or cooling devices in the treatment area.  This includes:  heating pads, hot water bottles, ice packs, hairdryers, etc.
• It is recommended that you avoid shaving/waxing hair within the treatment area while on treatment, and until any skin reaction has completely settled.
• Avoid hot pools while on treatment and until any skin reaction has completely healed.  Discuss swimming in salt or chlorinated water with your oncologist, as this may be determined on an individual basis.
• Be aware of the clothing you wear over the treatment area.  Loose fitting, soft, cotton clothing is recommended.
• Try to keep the treatment area protected from the sun and wind.  However, do not apply sunblock to the treatment area while you are on treatment.
• Even after you have completed your treatments the irradiated skin will always be more sensitive to the sun, and therefore ongoing care is necessary.  Apply sunblock with a SPF of 15 or higher to any exposed, previously treated skin if you are going to be out in the sun.

The peak of any reactions/side effects you may experience will occur approximately 7-14 days after the completion of your radiation treatment.  This is due to the cumulative nature of the treatment.