Silke and radiation therapy

NOTE: There is no scientific evidence suggesting that sleeping in silk bedding has any specific healing benefits for people with cancer. Silk and wool are recommended by Kræftens Bekæmpelse as a remedy against redness and skin irritation in radiated areas. 

Radiation therapy
Treatment with X-rays. The rays destroy cells, especially cancer cells, as they are more sensitive to rays than normal cells. Radiation therapy is an effective treatment for many cancers. In conventional radiation therapy, the tumor is exposed to ionizing radiation, usually in the form of high-dose X-rays.

Radiation therapy has some well-known negative side effects. At Cillouettes, we are continuously contacted by customers who wish to use silk as an aid to cope with their treatment. 

Common side effects of radiation therapy

Hair loss – Radiation therapy causes hair loss in the radiated areas. In most cases, hair grows back after two to three months. With a high radiation dose, hair loss in the area may be permanent.

Chemo damages the hair follicle, causing hair loss; this is known as chemotherapy-induced alopecia. When the promising sign of hair growth begins, the new hairs are fragile, delicate, and prone to breakage. The goal of sleeping on silk is to create a gentle environment that promotes hair regrowth and prevents hair breakage in the early stage. Silk's unique properties make it ideal for delicate hair fibers weakened by chemotherapy. Silk is smooth, soft, and friction-free and will not catch or stress delicate hair fibers; they simply glide over the fabric surface and are less likely to break. Silk is also gentle on newly grown hair while helping to retain the necessary moisture for continued growth.

Skin reaction - The skin in the radiated area can react like severe sunburn. The skin will be healed about a month after the last treatment. In some cases, the skin may darken after radiation therapy.

Silk is a soft and smooth material that can help reduce skin irritation and friction, and it is naturally hypoallergenic, which can be beneficial for people with sensitive skin. It is recommended by Kræftens Bekæmpelse to avoid synthetic fabrics on the radiated area. Instead, Kræftens Bekæmpelse recommends using wool or silk around the affected areas to avoid redness and skin irritation. 

It is important to note that while silk bedding can be beneficial for some cancer patients, it is not a cure for cancer or a substitute for medical treatment. If you are a cancer patient, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms.