Skin Care for Head and Neck Radiation – Grade 2 Dermatitis (The James)

Skin Care for Head and Neck Radiation – Grade 2 Dermatitis (The James)

 

You may notice that your skin has changed since you started radiation therapy. Your skin may now be redder, peeling with some patchy open areas and tender to touch. This is called radiation dermatitis. Radiation dermatitis is often rated as a “grade,” based on how your skin has changed during treatment. Your health care team has checked your skin and as of __________, you have grade 2 dermatitis.

 

How to Take Care of Your Skin

It is important to take special care of your skin now that it has started to change during radiation therapy.

Things you should do:

  • Wash your skin each day with mild soap and warm water and pat dry. Do not rub or scrub your skin. Use mild, fragrance-free soap, such as Dove, Ivory, Neutrogena, Basis or Castile.
  • If needed, you may use an electric razor with a guard to trim your facial hair. Do not use blade razors.
  • Use Aquaphor 3 to 4 times each day to any area of your skin that is not open. Your doctor may give you a prescription for ointment to numb areas that are painful or sensitive.
    • You may use a thin layer of Aquaphor on the treated area before your radiation therapy. You may continue to use a thin layer up until you arrive at your radiation appointment.
  • Your doctor may give you a prescription for Silvadene cream. Use a thin layer of Silvadene cream 2 times each day to any area of your skin that is open. It is important to wash the area of your skin with mild soap and water before you use the cream.
    • Do not leave Silvadene cream on your skin during radiation treatments. It is important to wash the area of your skin with mild soap and water before your treatments.
  • Stay away from extreme cold and heat, such as hot water and ice packs.
  • Wear clothes with soft fabrics (such as cotton) that do not rub or irritate your skin.

 

 

© August 1, 2022. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care.