Natural Alternatives for Skin Care After Cancer Treatment

Radiation dermatitis is one of the most painful side effects of radiation therapy, causing symptoms like overdrying, tenderness and weeping, while also potentially raising the risk of infection. Many doctors recommend the use of topical corticosteroids to help prevent or reduce the effects of radiation dermatitis, and while steroid creams and ointments may help reduce some of these symptoms, prolonged use or use on damaged or irritated skin has also be associated with other, more serious risks and complications.

Topical Steroids and Their Side Effects

Skin care aftercancer treatment is important not only to prevent irritation and discomfort, but also to help promote the health of the skin tissue. The key is to find an agent that works to reduce radiation dermatitis symptoms and restore skin without potentially causing more harm, either locally or systemically.

Since topical steroids were introduced in the 1950s, studies have explored their side effects, and they've identified quite a few: Long-term use or improper use of topical corticosteroids has been associated with skin thinning and conditions like rosacea, acne, dermatitis, and skin discoloration and infections, as well as systemic issues like an increased risks for diabetes and hyperglycemia.

Topical steroids also have an effect on the adrenal, pituitary and hypothalmic glands. All of these effects can be magnified when the medications are used on skin that's compromised or inflamed.

Natural Alternatives to Steroid Creams

The side effects of long-term or repeated use of corticosteroid creams have been well established by several studies, and if you're undergoing radiation therapy, you're already dealing with one serious health issue. What's more, at least one study has shown that while topical steroids may help ameliorate the effects of radiation dermatitis, they don't prevent the condition from occurring. So then the question becomes: Should you use corticosteroids to help prevent radiation dermatitis? The answer: That's up to you and your doctor. But whatever you decide, adding calendula skin cream to your skin care routine can be a smart move to help reduce dermatitis symptoms and restore skin to its normal, healthy state. 

* We make no drug claims or attempt to advise or diagnose disease (see website) and recommend consulting with your physician and obtaining clinical advice on all matters related to caring for your skin during treatment.

My Girls™ Skin Care Calendula Skin Cream is made from pure ingredients, like calendula, rosemary, avocado oil, jojoba oil and coconut oils to nourish and support healthy skin, reducing inflammation and irritation naturally, without the risks associated with topical corticosteroids. Plus, there are no parabens, fragrances or dyes, which makes it an ideal choice for even the most sensitive skin, including skin that's been irritated and broken down by radiation therapy.

To learn more about My Girls™ Skin Care Calendula Skin Cream and how it can help reduce the symptoms of radiation dermatitis, visit our website or connect with us on Facebook.