Radiotherapy and skin damage (radiation dermatitis) - How to recognize it and help yourself?
- davorkust
- May 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 9
Author: Hrvoje Brčić, MD
Cancer treatment can be difficult and exhausting, and treatments such as radiotherapy ("radiation") and chemotherapy often cause side effects that make everyday life even more difficult for patients. In addition to causing loss of energy and mental exhaustion, radiation can cause skin changes, including burns known as radiation dermatitis.
If your treatment includes radiotherapy, it is important to monitor possible side effects, such as burns, so that you can recognize and alleviate them in time. Although skin changes are often inevitable, there are measures you can take. If you notice any changes to your skin, inform your medical staff immediately so that you can be advised on what to use on your skin and what to avoid.
Radiotherapy - an important and challenging treatment method
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than half of cancer patients receive radiotherapy as part of their treatment, either alone or in combination with other therapies. Radiation therapy is a localized treatment that focuses on cancer cells and the surrounding area, rather than the entire body. There are different ways in which radiation is administered, which you can read about in the main article on radiotherapy. This treatment is effective in fighting cancer, but it is important to understand the possible side effects.
How does radiation dermatitis occur?
Although radiation kills cancer cells, it can also damage healthy cells. Because X-rays must pass through the skin to reach cancer cells, skin damage can occur, especially if the skin does not have enough time to recover between treatments. Radiation burns usually appear about two weeks after the start of therapy and are most often mild and resolve within two months after treatment ends. Symptoms of radiation dermatitis include redness, dryness, itching, peeling, blistering, and swelling. Changes in skin texture or color may also occur in the area of radiation. Patients receiving treatment for certain types of cancer, such as head and neck cancer, breast cancer, and skin cancers, are particularly prone to burns.
What does a radiation burn look like?
Symptoms of radiation burns include:
x Redness
x Dryness
x Itching
x Peeling
x Blisters
x Swelling
x Tissue damage
The skin can become moist and prone to infection, especially in skin folds, such as the area under the breasts. Such conditions require special care.
Preventing and Treating Radiation Burns
Improved skin care is the best defense against radiation burns. Talk to your doctor about creams that can help keep your skin healthy. Avoid rubbing and scratching the affected areas, as this can slow the healing process. Also, shower with mild soaps, use lukewarm water, and gently pat yourself dry with a towel. Protect the treated area from extreme temperatures, avoid direct sunlight, and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Avoid products that can cause irritation, such as deodorants, powders, perfumes, and hair removal products, and consult your doctor about all skin products. Medications for treating burns include steroid creams or special lotions to relieve symptoms and prevent infection. Your medical team may recommend additional methods to help reduce discomfort and prevent complications.
Can CBD help with burns and other skin problems caused by radiation?
With CBD becoming increasingly popular, patients are wondering if this natural compound can help relieve burn pain. CBD is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a popular ingredient for relieving skin problems. This has been confirmed by scientific research, and below we present just some of them:
Although cannabinoids are usually used orally to relieve symptoms such as nausea and loss of appetite in cancer patients, topical CBD products may have a direct effect on endocannabinoid receptors in the skin. Early studies suggest that topical application of CBD may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making it an interesting option for skin care after radiation exposure.
CBD isn’t just a potential helper in treating burns—it may also help fight acne and excess sebum production. Studies show that CBD can reduce the amount of sebum the skin produces, which, combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, makes it useful in preventing breakouts and inflammation. If you’ve used CBD for burn recovery or as part of your skincare routine, share your experiences with us.
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