I'd like to add one more thing about using lotion. Never rub it in, only very gently pat it on. Only a thin layer is needed. I used to pat it on several times during the day (of course never prior to going into rads). I carried it with me to my rad appointments and would pat it on in the car on the way home. Immediately after showering is another time I always would reapply the lotion. I was given prescription beta-val cream. There are so many options by prescription and without. If you would develop any sores from radiation burning your skin, continue to very gently pat the ointment onto your neck and cover it with a square of gauze to help keep the open sores from getting any gunk or lotion on your clothes. My neck did get pretty beat up even though I was diligent in applying the ointment. I was shocked when it all healed and no scars were visible.