Here are some tips on how to care for your child’s skin:
• Clean the skin with lukewarm water and a type of soap recommended by nursing staff.
• Avoid using any lotion, perfume, deodorant, or powder on the treated areas unless approved by a doctor.
• Do not use products that contain alcohol or perfume.
• Avoid applying anything cold or hot, like warm compresses or ice packs.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing or collars over the treated area; soft, loose cotton clothing should be worn.
• Handle the child’s skin in the treated area very gently; do not scratch, rub, or irritate the treated skin.
• Do not use adhesive tape on the treated skin, and if a dressing is necessary, use paper tape and place it outside the treated area.
• Avoid sun exposure unless absolutely necessary; if sun exposure occurs, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and wear protective clothing.
These side effects don’t occur in every child, and their severity varies depending on the dose of radiation the child is exposed to.