Radiation Dermatitis - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
Inflammation and damage of skin within a radiotherapy treatment field, ranging from mild redness and dryness to moist peeling and, rarely, ulceration. It typically begins two to three weeks into treatment, peaks a week after the course ends, and heals over the following weeks.
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Quick Answer
Radiation dermatitis is skin injury within a radiotherapy field, appearing two to three weeks into treatment as redness, dryness and itching, sometimes progressing to dry or moist peeling. It peaks about a week after treatment finishes. Gentle washing with lukewarm water and mild cleanser, unscented moisturiser and loose clothing help; moist peeling, severe pain or signs of infection need the oncology team's attention.
Symptoms
- Redness and warmth confined to the treatment field
- Dryness, itching and flaking (dry desquamation)
- Moist peeling and weeping in more severe cases
- Darkening of the skin in the field
- Hair loss within the field; late thinning and telangiectasia
Causes & Risk Factors
- Ionising radiation damaging basal skin cells
- Higher cumulative dose and larger fields
- Treatment over skin folds or moist areas
- Concurrent chemotherapy
- Smoking, obesity and poor nutrition increase severity
Treatment & Management
- Gentle washing with lukewarm water and a mild, unperfumed cleanser
- Unscented moisturiser applied regularly, avoiding immediately before treatment unless advised
- Loose, soft cotton clothing
- Topical corticosteroid where prescribed by the oncology team
- Specialist dressings and analgesia for moist desquamation
When to See a Doctor
Contact your oncology or radiotherapy team for weeping or broken skin, increasing pain, foul odour, fever, or any area that is not healing several weeks after treatment ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my normal moisturiser during radiotherapy?
Ask your radiotherapy team. Most now allow simple unperfumed moisturisers throughout treatment, with a preference for applying after rather than immediately before a session.
Will the skin change be permanent?
Acute redness and peeling heal within weeks. Some lasting changes — mild darkening, thinning, visible small vessels and permanent hair loss in the field — can remain.
Related Conditions
Medical References
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.