Suncare during Radiation Treatment
As a general rule, you don’t want any sun exposure on a treatment site while receiving radiation treatment. Always check with your radiation oncologist before using sunscreen if you are undergoing radiation. Your doctor may not want you to put sunscreen or any because the skin is prone to injury
General Sun Protection tips during cancer treatment
Use a sunscreen that is specially formulated for your face that delivers both UVA and UVB protection in a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Apply sun protection daily and liberally – a dollop about the size of a golf ball – to all exposed skin, such as the lips, ears, scalp, sides and back of neck, and exposed chest.
Get in the habit of applying sun protection every morning, about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply often – about every two hours.
Remember that you’re still exposed to UVA/UVB rays even in the shade.
Stay inside during the intense-sun hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Though remember: If you’re indoors, windows offer no protection against UVA rays.
Don’t forget to wear a hat – preferably one with a wide brim of about three inches.
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Why Sun Protection Really Matters During Treatment
The sun can mess with your skin any time of the year, but if you’re going through cancer treatment—like chemo or radiation—it’s a bigger deal. Some meds and treatments make your skin extra sensitive, which means you can get sunburned way easier, and the damage can be worse.
Sun Safety During Radiation Treatment
If you’re getting radiation, it’s best to keep the treated area completely out of the sun. In fact, don’t put anything on that area—not even sunscreen—unless your radiation doctor says it’s okay. The skin around the treatment site is super delicate and can get hurt easily, so always double-check with your doctors/nurses first.
Everyday Sun Protection Tips (Even If You’re Not in the Sun Much)
Here’s how to protect your skin like a pro:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen for your face (SPF 30 or higher). Look for one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Cover up every exposed spot—your lips, ears, scalp (especially if you’ve lost hair), neck, chest… all of it. You want A LOT – think a golf-ball-sized amount.
Make sunscreen part of your morning routine—put it on about 20–30 minutes before you go outside
Reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or outside for a long time
Shade doesn’t block UV rays—you can still get sun exposure even if you’re chilling under a tree or umbrella
Try to stay indoors during peak sun hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. And remember, UVA rays go through windows, so indoor sun isn’t totally safe either.
Rock a hat – The best kind is one with a wide brim (about 3 inches) to protect your face and neck
The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays (Why It Matters)
- UVA rays go deep into your skin. They cause fast tanning, wrinkles, and can lead to skin cancer. Most UVA rays (about 95%) get through the ozone layer.
- UVB rays hit the surface of your skin and cause sunburns. They’re also a major cause of skin cancer. The ozone blocks most UVB rays, but some still get through.
Source: Health Canada
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