How Long Does It Take Radiation Burns to Heal? – Your Complete Guide t – Rejûvaskin

Here at Rejuvaskin, we’ve talked about radiation burns many times; they’re a pesky side effect of radiation therapy, and they’re often unavoidable. One of the most crucial parts of preparing yourself for radiation therapy is to make sure your skin is prepared as well. In this blog, we’ll answer some common questions about radiation burns: do radiation burns ever heal, how do you treat radiation burns, and what is the best cream for radiation burns?

What Are Radiation Burns?

Radiation burns are skin reactions caused by the exposure of healthy cells to radiation during cancer treatments. Although radiation therapy is essential for targeting cancer cells, it often affects the skin in the treated area. Symptoms typically appear 1 to 2 weeks after starting radiation and may continue even after treatment ends since radiation remains active in the body for a period.

Common symptoms include:

Redness or darkening of the skin
Itching and peeling
Blistering in more severe cases
Pain or tenderness in the affected areas

The degree of the burn, much like thermal burns, can range from first-degree (mild redness and dryness) to more severe second-degree burns (blistering and open sores).

How Long Does It Take to Heal?

Healing from radiation burns depends on several factors, including the severity of the burn, the specific area being treated, and individual skin resilience.

Mild Burns: First-degree radiation burns, which cause redness and slight peeling, typically heal within 2 to 4 weeks after treatment ends (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). These burns resemble a mild sunburn and usually heal with appropriate skincare and protection.
Moderate to Severe Burns: Second-degree burns, which involve blistering and moist peeling skin, may take several months to fully heal. Open sores and intense itching may occur in areas like the armpits or under the breast where skin folds or sweat accumulate (Verywell Health, 2023). Special care is often needed to prevent infection and promote healing, such as the use of medical creams and dressings.

Can Radiation Burns Leave Scars?

In some cases, radiation burns can lead to permanent scarring. The risk of scarring is higher with more severe burns, particularly if the skin is not properly cared for during the healing process. Regular use of scar prevention products like Rejuvaskin Scar Heal® can help minimize scarring and promote smoother skin recovery.

Best Skincare Practices During and After Radiation Treatment

Caring for your skin during radiation therapy is essential to minimize the severity of burns and support the healing process. Here’s how you can protect and heal your skin:

1. Cleanse Gently

Radiation can dry out the skin, making it essential to cleanse gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid scrubbing the affected areas and pat your skin dry with a soft towel (American Cancer Society, 2023).

2. Moisturize Regularly

Radiation therapy can make your skin dry, so it’s vital to keep it moisturized. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizers that contain aloe vera, calendula, or hyaluronic acid, which are known for their soothing and healing properties (Verywell Health, 2023). Apply these moisturizers several times a day to keep the skin hydrated and reduce irritation.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure

Sunlight can further irritate radiation-damaged skin, increasing the risk of burning and pigmentation changes. Always wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when stepping outside (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). Consult your healthcare provider for specific recommendations about sunscreen during radiation treatment.

4. Use Prescription Creams if Needed

Your healthcare provider may prescribe a steroid cream or other medication to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing. Be sure to follow their directions closely to avoid further irritation or side effects.

The Role of Skin Recovery Cream in Healing Radiation Burns

For those undergoing radiation therapy, finding the right skincare products is crucial for managing burns and preventing long-term skin damage. Rejuvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream is specifically formulated to address the unique needs of radiation-treated skin, promoting quicker recovery and relief from symptoms such as dryness, redness, and itching.

Why Choose Rejuvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream?

Clinically proven ingredients: This cream contains calendula extract, known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, as well as hyaluronic acid, which deeply hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier.
Dermatologist-approved: Safe for sensitive, compromised skin, Rejuvaskin Skin Recovery Cream is designed to be gentle while providing deep nourishment.
Soothes and repairs: Regular application helps soothe irritation, restore moisture, and support the skin’s natural healing process.
Prevents scarring: Its formulation helps reduce the risk of permanent scarring, making it an excellent choice for use during and after radiation therapy.

How to Use It:

Apply the cream twice daily or as directed by your healthcare provider, focusing on the areas most affected by radiation.
Pair it with other Rejuvaskin products, such as RejuvaSil® Silicone Scar Gel, to enhance recovery and reduce the appearance of scars.

Final Thoughts on Healing Radiation Burns

While radiation burns are an unfortunate side effect of cancer treatment, proper care and the right products can significantly improve the healing process. By following expert recommendations, using high-quality skincare like Rejuvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream, and maintaining a consistent routine, you can protect your skin and recover more comfortably.

Remember, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare products during radiation therapy.