Dear Iris: Is Summer Off Limits During Treatment?
Dear Iris,
Summer is one of those seasons I look forward to the most, especially living in the mountains when the snow feels endless. I’ve been looking forward to this season, so is it okay to be in the sun while going through treatment?
S
Dear S,
Spending time outside can definitely lift your mood—but it's true that cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Some medications can also increase the risk of sunburn or rashes, a reaction known as photosensitivity.
If you’re heading out, wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved, moisture-wicking fabrics that offer built-in UV protection (often labeled UPF 30 or higher). These clothes can help block harmful rays without the need to constantly reapply sunscreen to covered areas.
Whether you’re in the sun or spending time in snowy mountain areas (where UV exposure can be intense due to reflection), moisturizing your skin afterward can help soothe and prevent dryness or irritation—both of which may be more common during treatment.
Other helpful tips:
☀️ Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin
☂️ Seek shade when possible
💧 Bring water with you to stay well hydrated—especially in the heat
You don’t need to avoid the outdoors entirely—just take a few extra precautions to protect your skin and stay comfortable.
Jessica Suarez, BSN, RN, OCN
Senior Oncology RN
Iris Oncology
After working in various specialties throughout her career as a nurse, oncology holds a dear place in Jessica Suarez’s heart. Having supported family members and friends through cancer care has greatly impacted her desire to serve this specific population. Jessica has significant clinical experience working with head and neck, esophageal, and lung cancers and is passionate about working with patients to identify barriers or gaps in care and empowering them with the tools necessary to overcome them.
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This article meets Iris standards for medical accuracy. It has been fact-checked by the Iris Clinical Editorial Board, our team of oncology experts who ensure that the content is evidence based and up to date. The Iris Clinical Editorial Board includes board-certified oncologists and pharmacists, psychologists, advanced practice providers, licensed clinical social workers, oncology-certified nurses, and dietitians.
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