How to Care for Radiation-Sensitive Skin

Skin Care for Chemotherapy
and Radiation Treatment

By Mark Brown, RN | Oncology Nurse & Co-Founder of Dermavitality

By Mark Brown, RN | Oncology Nurse &
Co-Founder of Dermavitality

A Nurse’s Perspective on Caring for Radiation-Sensitive Skin

As an oncology nurse, I’ve cared for countless patients undergoing radiation therapy. Each person brings courage, vulnerability, and a desire to feel normal in the midst of a difficult journey. What many don’t expect is how much radiation can affect the skin—and how deeply those changes can influence comfort and confidence.

Redness, itching, tightness, and tenderness are common side effects. Over time, skin can become dry, inflamed, and hypersensitive to touch. These changes may look like surface irritation, but to the people experiencing them, they can feel far more than skin-deep.

That’s why we created .nurse-formulated skincare designed specifically for radiation-sensitive skin Our goal is to combine compassionate nursing care with the healing power of nature—to make each day a little gentler using safe, organic ingredients that support skin health naturally.

Understanding Radiation-Induced Skin Changes

Radiation therapy works by targeting cancer cells, but the skin in the treatment area often absorbs some of that impact. When healthy skin cells are damaged, the area can become inflamed and slow to heal.
Common reactions include:

• Redness or darkening similar to a sunburn
• Dry, flaky, or peeling skin
• Tenderness, warmth, or itching
• In some cases, blistering or open sores

Although these effects are common, proper care can reduce discomfort, speed recovery, and protect against more severe irritation. The key is prevention and gentle daily attention.

The Emotional Side of Skin Changes

Skin reactions aren’t just physical—they can be emotional. Many patients have told me they feel discouraged when their skin changes or painful when something as simple as wearing clothing becomes difficult.

It’s okay to feel that way. These emotions are part of healing. As nurses, we’ve learned that caring for the skin is also caring for the spirit. Every soothing touch or cooling spray is an act of comfort—a reminder that you deserve ease and care, even in the hardest moments.

A Gentle, Natural Approach: Nurse-Formulated Care

When creating the Dermavitality line, we wanted more than a product. We wanted a promise—that everything touching the skin of a patient in treatment would be pure, safe, and supportive.

Instead of synthetic chemicals or artificial fragrance, our formulas rely on organic botanicals that nurses and herbalists have trusted for generations. The skin’s natural barrier is already compromised during radiation; it doesn’t need anything harsh. What it needs is calm.

That’s where our Radiation Relief Cream and Radiation Relief Spray come in. Each combines carefully selected plant extracts that soothe inflammation, replenish hydration, and nurture the skin back toward balance.

Calendula, Aloe, and Nature’s Healing Allies

When we developed our Radiation Relief Cream and Radiation Relief Spray, we looked to nature for ingredients known to comfort and restore. Each plant extract was chosen by nurses who understand how delicate radiation-treated skin can be—and how powerful natural healing can feel.

Together, these botanicals form a synergistic blend that cools, hydrates, and restores—free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, and harsh chemicals.

Two Ways to Soothe: Cream and Spray

Our Radiation Relief Cream offers deep, lasting hydration ideal for dry or peeling skin. It absorbs quickly to form a light, protective barrier while delivering botanical nutrients that help calm inflammation and support renewal.

When skin is too tender for touch, the Radiation Relief Spray provides instant, hands-free cooling. A light mist of Aloe, Calendula, Chamomile, and Arnica brings comfort without friction—perfect for post-treatment care or quick relief throughout the day.

Both were created with one goal: to give patients natural, nurse-approved comfort through every step of radiation therapy.

Small Daily Habits That Support Healing

• Stay hydrated. Water supports skin cell repair and overall health.
• Eat nutrient-rich foods. Include antioxidants and healthy fats to nourish from within.
• Avoid friction. Choose soft fabrics and loose clothing.
• Protect from sunlight. Cover treated areas when outdoors.
• Rest and restore. Healing takes energy—listen to your body and allow time to recover.

Healing doesn’t happen overnight, but these small daily actions build strength and comfort over time.

Caring for the Whole Person

Radiation care isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, and human. Taking a few moments each day to care for your skin is also caring for your heart. Many patients tell me that using the cream or mist becomes a ritual of hope—a reminder that healing is happening, even when it’s hard to see.

At Dermavitality, we believe that love, faith, and science can work hand in hand. That’s why we continue to create products that honor both your health and your humanity.

You are not alone in this. Every nurse who helped create these formulas understands what you’re facing.

Conclusion: You Deserve Gentle, Effective Care

Radiation therapy is powerful—and so is your resilience. With the right care, you can protect and soothe your skin while supporting recovery from the inside out.

Start moisturizing early. Choose products made from clean, organic ingredients. Treat your skin with patience and kindness.

Our Radiation Relief Cream, Radiation Relief Spray, Body Lotion, and Hand & Foot Relief Cream were all created by nurses who believe in the healing power of nature—and in you.

You are not alone on this journey. With the right care, comfort, and faith, healing truly begins.