Silk and radiation treatment

NOTE: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that sleeping in silk bedding has any specific healing benefits for people with cancer. Silk and wool are recommended by the Norwegian Cancer Society as a remedy for redness and skin irritations on radiation-treated areas.

Radiation treatment
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. With ordinary radiation therapy, the cancer node 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 regularly contacted by customers who want to use silk as an aid to overcome their treatment.

Classic side effects of radiotherapy

Hair loss – The radiation treatment causes hair loss in the irradiated areas. In most people, the hair grows back after two to three months. With a high dose of radiation, the hair loss in the area can 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 hair strands 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 stages. Silk's unique properties make it ideal for delicate hair fibers weakened by chemotherapy. Silk is smooth, soft and frictionless and will not trap 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 moisture needed for continued growth.

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

Silk is a soft and smooth material that can help reduce skin irritation and friction, and is naturally hypoallergenic, which can be beneficial for people with sensitive skin. It is recommended by the Norwegian Cancer Society to avoid artificial textiles against the radiation-treated area. Instead, the Danish Cancer Society recommends using wool or silk around the affected areas to avoid redness and skin irritation.

It is important to note that while silk bedding may 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 health care provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms.