What is Radiation Dermatitis, and What Can I Do About It?

Radiation dermatitis is a common skin problem caused by radiation therapy, affecting about 95% of patients who receive this treatment. It comes in two flavors: early reactions, which show up within 90 days of starting treatment, and late ones, which can appear months to years after treatment ends.

Acute (early) radiation dermatitis happens slowly during radiation therapy. It causes skin issues like redness, swelling, changes in skin color, hair loss, and either dry or moist peeling. This can really impact a patient's quality of life. Using Rika Relief Balm during your course of radiation therapy will soothe and help protect your skin from these acute skin issues. Apart from using Rika Relief Balm, you can help your skin during this time by taking these extra measures:

• Avoid Hot Water:  When you wash, use lukewarm water, not too hot.  Hot water can make your skin more sensitive to radiation.  
• Use Gentle Soaps:  Use mild, gentle soaps when you wash.  Harsh soaps can be like scrubbing your skin too hard.
• Pat Dry, Don’t Rub:  After washing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.  Don’t rub it, as rubbing can irritate your skin.
• Loose, Soft Clothing:  Wear loose, soft clothing to avoid friction on your skin.  Tight clothes can rub and make things worse.
• Stay Away from Harsh Chemicals:  Things like strong perfumes and alcohol-based products can be like poking your skin when it’s already upset.  So, try to avoid them.
• Protect from the Sun:  Your skin can be extra sensitive to the sun during and after radiation.  So, think of sunscreen and hats as your skin’s umbrella to shield it from the sun’s rays.

Chronic (late) radiation dermatitis shows up months to years after radiation, and it's marked by skin changes like thickening and color variations, as well as thinning and small blood vessels showing through.  Starting Rika Recover Balm early following your course of radiation therapy aids in the prevention of these long-term skin issues. Continuing to avoid harsh chemicals and soaps, as well as, protecting your skin from the sun will also help.  Additionally, proper nutrition is important.  Your diet can support skin health and healing after treatment.  Follow these principles:

• Drink water:  Think of water like a drink for your skin.  Staying hydrated can keep your skin from getting too dry and itchy
• Eat Balanced Meals:  Imagine your body was a machine.  It needs the right kind of fuel to work well.  Eating balanced meals with fruits, veggies, protein (like chicken or beans), and whole grains can help your skin stay healthy.
• Fruits and Veggies:  These are like vitamins for your skin.  Foods like berries, oranges, and spinach are packed with things that help your skin heal.
• Avoid Too Much Sugar:  Too much sugary stuff, like candy and soda, can make your skin problems worse.  Try to limit these foods.

Remember, Rika means feeling at home in your skin. Rika Relief Balm and Rika Recover Balm are your steadfast companions throughout your treatment and recovery journey, nurturing your skin's vitality during and after radiation therapy.