Breast cancer: a global issue, a challenge for the skin

Breast cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. According to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC, GLOBOCAN 2022), it affects approximately 2.3 million women each year, and on average, 1 in 20 women will be affected at some point in their lifetime (IARC, 2025).

Beyond these figures, one reality stands out: the breast cancer journey has a profound impact on the skin, from the very first treatments and long after they have ended.
Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, surgery, scarring… all leave a lasting mark on the skin tissue.

Why does the skin become more sensitive to the sun during and after treatment?

• Radiotherapy: an essential treatment, but skin that remains fragile over time

Radiotherapy is a key treatment for breast cancer: it uses ionizing radiation to destroy residual cancer cells after surgery or to reduce the size of a tumor before an operation.
Although these rays are precisely targeted to spare healthy tissue, the exposed skin is often the first to react.

According to the French National Cancer Institute (INCa), radiotherapy rays frequently cause skin erythema (redness similar to sunburn) and hyperpigmentation in the irradiated area. These reactions are particularly common when the breast, head, and neck are treated.

These reactions reflect skin inflammation caused by the temporary destruction of certain epidermal cells. Their severity varies depending on the cumulative dose and the patient’s skin phototype.

This skin condition, called radiodermatitis , appears during treatment and then tends to subside over the months.

However, the skin often remains thinner, drier, less supple, heals more slowly and remains more reactive to UV rays and heat.

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, up to 95% of women experience a skin reaction in the irradiated area.

Key points to remember: radiation therapy is an essential treatment to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence, but it permanently alters the skin's structure. Strict sun protection ( such as UPF 50+ or SPF 50+ clothing , limited sun exposure) is essential during and after treatment.

• Chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies: the photosensitizing effect

During certain chemotherapy protocols or targeted treatments, some molecules make the skin hypersensitive to light.

This photosensitivity results in :

• • intense redness from the first few minutes of exposure.
  • delayed rashes, eczema or hives ,
  • or persistent hyperpigmentation .

Even some supportive treatments, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antiemetics , can accentuate these effects.

According to Maggie's Center , these skin reactions can appear during treatment, but also several months after stopping it .

Key takeaway: sun vigilance begins at the start of the therapeutic process and continues over time.

• Surgery and scars: areas that need lasting protection

Operated areas (breast, armpit, chest) remain sensitive for many months, or even several years.

Direct exposure to the sun can cause:

• • hyperpigmentation
  • a thickening ,
  • or a delay in healing .

Furthermore, the risk of hypertrophic scarring is higher in medium to dark skin tones.

During the healing period, it is strongly advised against directly exposing the operated area . It must remain covered and protected as soon as it is closed.

Sun exposure and fragile skin: the risks during and after breast cancer

• Faster and more intense sunburns

Skin that has undergone cancer treatment burns more quickly: just a few minutes of exposure can trigger severe erythema.
The hydrolipidic film, weakened by treatments, no longer filters UV rays as effectively.

• Skin reactions and discomfort

UV rays can intensify side effects:

• • rashes, eczema, itching, pruritus
    
  • hyper- or hypopigmented spots depending on the area.

These reactions, although generally mild, require careful and continuous clinical monitoring throughout the course of treatment.

• Aesthetic impacts and quality of life

Marks or scars may become more pronounced after sun exposure. This aesthetic alteration often affects self-confidence and daily comfort. Protecting the skin from the sun therefore becomes an integral part of overall care, a key health and well-being reflex.

Lifelong sensitive skin, but a life possible in the sun

Specialists from the Paris Breast Institute and the Vaud Breast Center remind us that the skin never fully “returns” to its initial state.
She retains the memory of the radiation, the treatments, and the scars.
This permanent sensitivity requires lifelong sun protection , but it should not mean giving up.

The sun is not the enemy: it can be coexisted with cautiously and regularly in the form of protection.

• The right steps to take to protect yourself during and after breast cancer

1. Prioritize sun protection through clothing : choose covering clothing suitable for each moment of daily life

UV-protective clothing (UPF 50+ ) and UV-protective hats are today the most reliable and durable barrier against ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB) .
Made from technical fabrics tested according to the European standard EN 13758-1 , they effectively block UV rays without losing their effectiveness, even in case of perspiration, washing or prolonged exposure.

They are put on in the morning like an invisible but constant shield , a simple way to protect your skin throughout the day, an essential gesture during and after a journey that is often long and trying.

Choosing the right protective clothing for your activities :

• For daily walks or outings in town:
  Opt for lightweight, breathable, and protective clothing , such as the Rimini UPF 50+ anti-UV kimono or the Antibes anti-UV shirt . These pieces effectively protect your arms, wrists, décolletage, and neck while remaining stylish and comfortable for everyday wear.
  

• For relaxing moments by the sea or at the pool :
  UV-protective swimsuits guarantee complete protection, even in the water. Their fabric resists salt, chlorine, and sand , so swimming remains a pleasure without worrying about sensitive skin. A helpful tip: the Moorea jacket and the Capri UV-protective swimsuit top offer a dedicated pocket for inserting a breast prosthesis.
  

• For sports or outdoor activities (walking, yoga, gentle cycling, gardening):
  Opt for stretchy, breathable fabrics that support movement while providing maximum coverage.
  Ker Sun’s technical UV-protective leggings and T-shirts combine protection, support, and comfort, allowing the skin to breathe while remaining protected.

Wearing UV-protective clothing is far more than a precautionary measure: it is a way to regain confidence in one’s body and to reconnect with light—without giving up the freedom of the outdoors.

2. Complete with an SPF 50+ sunscreen

Choose a broad spectrum UVA/UVB formula , suitable for sensitive skin.
Apply generously to uncovered areas before each outing.
Reapply every two hours and after swimming. Avoid perfumed formulas or those containing alcohol.

3. Hydrate and soothe

Daily skin hydration helps restore the skin barrier and reduces sensations of tightness.
Use fragrance-free skincare products enriched with ceramides, panthenol, or aloe vera to soothe and strengthen the skin.

4. Monitor and consult

Consult a dermatologist once a year, or more often if the skin has been irradiated.
Monitor for any appearance of spots, redness or persistent lesions.
If you are currently undergoing treatment, ask your oncologist to specify whether a medication is photosensitizing or not .

5. Experiencing the sun differently

Prefer walks early in the morning or late in the day, seek shade and make sun protection a gesture of well-being.

The sun is life. When properly protected, it becomes a pleasure again.

• The 6 essential steps to remember

1. 1. Protect the skin from the start of treatment.
      
   2. To cover the irradiated area and scars for life.
      
   3. Wear UV-protective clothing (UPF 50+).
   4. Apply an SPF 50+ sunscreen.
      
   5. Moisturize your skin every day.
      
   6. Monitor for any abnormalities and consult regularly.
      
      

To protect is to continue living life to the fullest.

Skin is fragile for life after breast cancer. Sun protection should become a daily habit , both during and after treatment.
Fragile and reactive, she needs gentleness, consistency, and vigilance .

Protecting yourself from the sun means prolonging your health, soothing your skin, and keeping the freedom to love the light.

Sources:

• International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – GLOBOCAN 2022, 2025.
• National Cancer Institute (INCa) – Side effects of radiotherapy .
• Macmillan Cancer Support – Radiotherapy and your skin; Sun safety after cancer treatment.
• Maggie's Center – Looking after your skin during and after cancer treatment. I
• Breast Institute Paris, Vaud Breast Centre, Vivre Comme Avant Association.
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Ultraviolet radiation and skin cancer.