What Is Radiodermatitis?

Radiodermatitis, also known as radiation dermatitis or radiation skin toxicity, is a significant side effect of radiation therapy used to treat cancer. Radiodermatitis is the inflammation and damage to the skin that occurs when ionizing radiation is delivered to the skin during cancer treatment.

The severity of radiodermatitis can range from mild redness and irritation to severe skin breakdown and ulceration. Symptoms typically start around two weeks into treatment and can persist for several weeks after radiation therapy has ended. Radiodermatitis can cause significant pain and limitation of usual lifestyle activities and can be a dose-limiting side effect resulting in cancer treatment delays or cessation.

Preventive measures such as using gentle skin care products and avoiding sun exposure can help provide soothing relief to the skin during and after radiotherapy. Severe cases of radiodermatitis may require medical treatment to manage pain, inflammation and infection.

Always consult with your health care provider throughout your treatment if you have questions, experience discomfort or notice changes to your skin.

What Is Radiaderm R1 & R2?

R1 & R2 is a two-step system to care for your skin during and after radiotherapy. R1 is a cooling gel and R2 is a soothing lotion.

R1 & R2 were developed to provide soothing relief from uncomfortable skin conditions throughout radiation treatment. R1 & R2 help care for your skin from Day One of radiation treatment before any skin changes are visible.

How Does R1 Cooling Gel Work?

R1 Cooling Gel is step one of the system and provides intense hydration to your skin. It will also provide cooling relief for skin discomfort and irritation that may occur. 

Directions: Apply a generous layer to the affected area each day following your radiotherapy. It is best to apply the gel as soon as it is reasonably practical for you. Do not rub into the skin. The gel is most effective when applied in a thick layer and allowed to remain in contact with the skin for a minimum of 20 minutes. Any residue may be gently removed.

How Does R2 Soothing Lotion Work?

R2 Soothing Lotion is step two of the system and adds needed moisture throughout the day and night. It contains Lactokine™, which is a skin-conditioning agent that helps to reduce redness of the skin and maintain the skin’s smooth and elastic texture.

R2 Soothing Lotion also contains UVA and UVB stabilizers that help maintain the skin's natural barrier to free radicals caused by UV exposure; sun exposure should be limited while using this product.

Directions: Apply to skin three to four times a day, including at nighttime. Apply sparingly and evenly. Reapply after towel drying, swimming or sweating.

When Should I Start to Use Radiaderm R1 & R2?

For best results, use Radiaderm R1 & R2 immediately following your first radiation therapy session.

What Is Lactokine Fluid?

Lactokine is a clinically tested milk-based fluid that is used in personal care products. It is a skin-conditioning agent that also helps reduce redness of the skin. 

How Is R1 & R2 Packaged?

Both R1 Cooling Gel and R2 Soothing Lotion are provided in 4 fl. oz. tubes. One system pack will contain one tube of R1 and one tube of R2.

Will R1 & R2 Last Throughout My Radiation Treatments?

This is entirely dependent upon the area on which it is applied. Both products are supplied as a system.

I’m Lactose Intolerant. Can I Use R1 & R2?

R1 & R2 is for topical use only and should not be ingested. If you are allergic or sensitive to the topical use of milk proteins, consult your physician. 

Can R1 & R2 Be Used on All Types of Skin?

Yes, both R1 Cooling Gel and R2 Soothing Lotion can be used on all skin types anywhere on the surface where the skin is being treated with radiation.

Should I Wash the R2 Soothing Lotion Off Before I Have My Radiation Treatment?

Yes, the skin in your treatment area should be free of all products, including R1 & R2. Do not apply R2 in the four hours before your radiation treatment.

Do I Have to Wait a Certain Amount of Time to Apply R2 Soothing Lotion After I Have Finished Applying R1 Cooling Gel?

After you have applied R1 for a minimum of 20 minutes, wipe off any residue that has not been absorbed. Then you can immediately apply R2. It is important to make sure you apply R2 up to four times during the day to continue to provide moisturizing and skin-enhancing benefits throughout the day and night. 

I Scheduled My Radiation Treatments and Don’t Have 20 Minutes Immediately Following Radiation Therapy to Apply R1 Cooling Gel. What Should I Do?

If you can’t apply it immediately following your radiation treatment, apply R1 Cooling Gel as soon as you have a short block of time (not longer than four hours after your treatment) in which you can leave the irradiated area uncovered (minimum of 20 minutes). It will provide extra hydration and contains Lactokine. As you go through your treatment, it will also help soothe and relieve the discomfort from any skin changes that may occur.

Can I Use R1 & R2 on an Open Wound?

The Radiaderm R1 & R2 System is not a sterile product; therefore, it is not recommended for use on skin with open wounds. Please consult your physician for the proper way to treat affected areas with open wounds.