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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
April 28
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A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you for your reply. I have so many creams and lotions, I feel like a pharmacy. Hugs and care to you!

April 29
MyBCTeam

Radiation burns are one of the tougher side effects to deal with, but there are quite a few things that have helped others manage them. Here's a summary of what's worked:

Moisturizing
- Use fragrance-free lotions, creams, or ointments generously
- Start moisturizing *before* you notice any skin changes — don't wait
- Rinse Show Full Answer

Radiation burns are one of the tougher side effects to deal with, but there are quite a few things that have helped others manage them. Here's a summary of what's worked:

Moisturizing
- Use fragrance-free lotions, creams, or ointments generously
- Start moisturizing *before* you notice any skin changes — don't wait
- Rinse off lotions before each treatment session, then reapply right after
- A MyBCTeam member shared: "The key is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate — put lotion on your skin and drink plenty of water"

Recommended products others have tried:
- Aloe vera gel
- Eucerin or Aquaphor
- Calendula lotion

Cooling the skin
- Use a hair dryer on the *cool* setting directed at the treated area
- Soak a clean cloth in saline solution and lay it on your chest for relief
- If using an ice pack, always place a soft towel between it and your skin — never apply ice directly Clothing choices
- Wear loose, soft, breathable cotton clothing
- Go braless when possible to let the skin air out
- Place a soft cotton cloth under the breast to prevent skin-on-skin rubbing

Things to avoid:
- Scented products, antiperspirants, or deodorants with aluminum on treated areas
- Hot showers, heating pads, or hot tubs
- Shaving the underarm area during and for a couple of weeks after treatment
- Direct sun exposure on treated skin — use SPF 30+ sunscreen

Always check with your care team before using any new creams or products, as some can interfere with how well radiation works. They can also prescribe medicated creams if burns become more severe.

April 28
A MyBCTeam Member

Let your team know. They should be able to have you come in first skin care, I think it is saline soaks.
My doctor had me apply aquaphor twice a day starting the first day of treatment through 2 weeks after the last. I was lucky, my skin was pretty red by the end, but I came out with intact skin.
Wishing you well!

April 30 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

I use Aveeno lotion. There's so many versions to choose from. The one I use is a healing formula for dry to very dry and sensitive skin. The bottle is a cream color with blue writing and accents. It's called "Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion" and it says, "Heals dry skin. Reduces signs of skin sensitivity with 72hr moisture."

April 29
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you so much. You have me a good idea of what is normal. May I ask what creams or lotion you used?

April 29

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