radiotherapy skin care is a contentious issue surrounded by myth, damaging and frightening stories and unfounded guidance. this is compounded by the fact that, when seeking information, patients, relatives and staff are faced with a barrage of conflicting, poorly researched data. each of the five scottish cancer centres worked together to produce guidance for all health professionals who are involved in the care of patients with radiotherapy skin reactions. as a result, a “best practice statement” has been produced to give an overall view of radiotherapy skin reactions and their recommended care. this will guide best practice and dispel the many myths of care, which are still in existence, thus ensuring that equity of best practice care is available to all patients.